The song "Who Knew" by Eminem, released in 2000, is a controversial track that touches on themes of censorship, the impact of Eminem's music on the youth, and the idea that he never expected to become as famous and influential as he did. In the lyrics, Eminem expresses his surprise at his rise to fame and the subsequent criticism he faced for his explicit and provocative content. He starts by reflecting on his success in the music industry and the unexpected fame that came with it. He acknowledges that he never anticipated reaching such a level, selling millions of records and breaking through societal boundaries. Eminem then addresses the criticism he has faced for his lyrical content and the controversy surrounding his music. He defensively states that he does not create music specifically for any race or color but rather makes "fight music for high school kids." He refers to his music as a form of rebellion and self-expression. The lyrics further take a dark turn as Eminem confronts the criticism head-on, challenging those who try to silence him. He uses dark and violent imagery to provoke and unsettle his critics, mentioning putting lives and relationships at risk. He questions the hypocrisy of censoring his music while larger societal issues go unaddressed. The song also explores the unintended consequences of his music on his audience. Eminem acknowledges that his lyrics can have a negative impact, referencing instances where his music may have influenced individuals to engage in self-destructive behavior, such as self-harm and violence against women. Eminem also criticizes the dual standards in society, pointing out how violence is glorified in movies and TV shows while his music is scrutinized. He mentions a movie where Arnold Schwarzenegger's character shoots many people, questioning the audience's reaction. He also brings up the issue of parents allowing their children to wear provocative makeup while blaming him for exposing kids to explicit language. In the final verses, Eminem responds to those who accuse him of influencing violent incidents, specifically school shootings. He refutes the notion that his music directly incites violence, emphasizing that he can say things but does not know if people will act on them. He shares personal experiences of his troubled upbringing and implies that his music is a reflection of his own difficult life experiences. Overall, "Who Knew" addresses Eminem's sudden rise to fame, the controversy surrounding his music, and his own struggle with the unintended consequences of his art. It provokes conversation about the responsibility of artists, the impact of censorship, and the influence of media on society.
