"When The Music Stops" is a song by Eminem featuring other members of the rap group D12, including Bizarre, Swifty McVay, Kon Artis, Kuniva, and Proof. The song discusses the challenges and pressures that come with being in the music industry and the personal struggles they face. The lyrics reflect the idea that music and reality can sometimes become blurred, but as entertainers, they have a responsibility towards their young listeners. However, they quickly dismiss this notion as a joke. Eminem's verse delves into his drive to succeed and the criticism and challenges he faces. He talks about how far he has come in his career and emphasizes that he will not give up on expressing himself through his music. He believes that people underestimate his skills and mock his talent, but he vows to prove them wrong and maintain his success. He also mentions his ongoing feud with Mariah Carey, expressing that he would rather get up and continue working hard than resort to producing mediocre content. Swifty McVay's verse explores his struggles with mental health and his self-destructive behavior. He expresses a desire to be recognized and sees himself as everyone's archenemy. He is addicted to drugs, unable to stay away from self-harm, and craves attention. He even fantasizes about his funeral and questions whether anyone would even care. Kon Artis reflects on the disillusionment he experiences after signing a record deal. He initially believed that money would bring him happiness, but instead, it only worsened his pain. He feels betrayed by his friends who abandoned him and realizes that he only has his reputation and integrity left. He becomes overwhelmed with stress from people constantly begging for favors and checking sales figures. He ends his verse reflecting on a car accident that serves as a metaphor for his crumbling career. Kuniva's verse is filled with aggression as he addresses his enemies. He threatens violence and warns them to run while they still have a chance. He portrays himself as a dangerous individual, professing to enhance the spirit of man as if he embodies death itself. He mocks those who talk big but do not act when confrontation arises. Proof's verse focuses on his confidence and dominance. He portrays himself as an alpha, mentioning the aggression of his dogs and comparing himself to a wolf. He boasts about his skills and warns his enemies to cower before him when he unleashes his wrath. Bizarre's verse takes a more comical and absurd approach. He reflects on the ways music has influenced his life, making him behave in unconventional ways. He mentions various artists such as LL Cool J, NWA, Michael Jackson, and Ludacris, as if their music made him adopt certain behaviors. He talks about engaging in reckless behavior and even mentions encounters with a transvestite and Eddie Murphy. Overall, "When The Music Stops" highlights the struggles and pressures faced by artists in the music industry, and how it can impact their mental health and personal lives. The song serves as a self-reflective commentary on fame, success, and the uncanny influence music can have on one's behavior.
