Pop goes the rapper: a close reading of Eminem’s genderphobia
VINCENT STEPHENS
Abstract
"This article argues that controversial hip-hopper Eminem is more properly termed a genderphobe
than a homophobe. Eminem consistently uses homophobic language to critique gender behaviour,
not sexual orientation. Focusing on genderphobic lyrics more accurately reveals hip-hop culture’s
emphasis on gender behaviour rather than the emphasis on sexual object-choice that homophobia
implies. The focus on genderphobia also highlights a discriminatory practice aimed toward
external behaviour that is related to homophobia but operates differently in certain cultural
realms. I ground my discussion by focusing on the centrality of authenticity in hip-hop and
gender propriety’s centrality in comprising hip-hop notions of authenticity. Additionally, I
emphasise how all pop stars rely on personae to convey convincing images to the public. I conclude
by analysing the Pet Shop Boys and Mariah Carey’s ‘answer songs’, which directly address
Eminem’s genderphobia and authenticity."
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