"Mockingbird" is a song by Eminem that was released in 2004. In the song, Eminem addresses his daughter Hailie, expressing his love for her and assuring her that he will always be there for her, despite the difficulties they face as a family. The song begins with Eminem telling Hailie to stay strong and not to cry because he is there to support her. He acknowledges that she misses her mom and him when he is away, but he is working hard to give her a better life than he had. He can see her sadness even when she smiles, and he wants to comfort her and protect her from the difficulties they face. Eminem reflects on his own upbringing and the hardships he and his daughter's mother experienced. He talks about how their relationship has become strained and how they are no longer together, but he believes that everything happens for a reason and that they cannot control their destiny. He promises Hailie that she doesn't need to worry and can rest her head because one day, the troubles they face will just be a dream. The second verse of the song dives deeper into Eminem's personal struggles and the challenges he faced trying to provide for his family. He recalls a Christmas when he had no money, and Hailie's mother had to pretend that some gifts were from him because he couldn't afford to buy them. He describes their living conditions and the hardships they faced, including robberies and violence in their neighborhood. Eminem mentions his rise to success in the music industry and how he had to leave his family behind temporarily while he pursued his career. He talks about the strain this put on their relationship, with Hailie and her sister, Lainie, being too young to understand why he was often on television and away from home. He acknowledges the pain and struggles they went through while he was absent and apologizes for not being there to make them proud. The song concludes with Eminem reminiscing about Hailie and Lainie growing up, and how proud he is of them. He emphasizes that he is still there for them and that their mother's absence is only temporary. He promises to do anything to make them happy and sings about how he would do whatever it takes to see them smile. Overall, "Mockingbird" is a heartfelt song where Eminem expresses his love for his daughters, reassures them of his presence and support, and reflects on the hardships they have faced as a family. The song showcases Eminem's vulnerability as a father and his desire to protect his children and provide them with a better life.
