Kings Never Die: Eminem’s Tribute to His Beloved Dog, King

Eminem, a name synonymous with raw emotion and lyrical prowess, often channels his personal experiences into his music. One of the lesser-known, yet deeply personal aspects of his life is his relationship with his Cane Corso, King. Eminem’s love for King was profound, and the loss of his beloved pet in 2015 was a significant event in his life. This poignant moment coincided with the release of his song “Kings Never Die,” featuring Gwen Stefani—a collaboration that holds more emotional weight than many fans might realize.

The Song: “Kings Never Die”

“Kings Never Die” is a powerful track from the soundtrack album Southpaw (Music from and Inspired By the Motion Picture), released on July 10, 2015. This song marked the first collaboration between Eminem and Gwen Stefani. With a genre rooted in hip hop, the song spans 4 minutes and 57 seconds and was released under Shady Records, Aftermath Entertainment, and Interscope Records. The song’s writing credits include Eminem, Luis Resto, Justin Tranter, Julia Michaels, Aaron Pfenning, and Emile Haynie, with The New Royales handling production.

The music video for “Kings Never Die,” directed by James Franco, premiered on July 29, 2015. It features Eminem and Stefani performing in a boxing gym, interspersed with gripping scenes from the film Southpaw. The visual representation complements the song’s intense and triumphant theme, creating a resonant connection between the fighters’ struggles in the movie and Eminem’s personal battles.

Critical Reception and Commercial Success

“Kings Never Die” garnered positive reviews from critics. Rolling Stone hailed it as “a triumphant anthem,” while Pitchfork praised its “emotional intensity.” The song’s motivational lyrics and catchy hook struck a chord with listeners, propelling it to number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number one on the Billboard Hot Rap Songs chart. Additionally, it earned a platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), cementing its place in Eminem’s illustrious discography.

A Deeper Connection: The Tribute to King

Beyond its commercial success and critical acclaim, “Kings Never Die” holds a special place in Eminem’s heart as a tribute to his dog, King. The Cane Corso, known for its loyalty and protective nature, was a steadfast companion to the rapper. King passed away in 2015, around the same time as the song’s release. This personal loss intertwined with the song’s theme of resilience and endurance, adding an extra layer of emotional depth.

Interestingly, Gwen Stefani also experienced the loss of her pet named King around the same time. This shared experience between the artists added a unique and personal touch to their collaboration, making “Kings Never Die” a heartfelt homage to their beloved pets.

Legacy and Impact

“Kings Never Die” has left a lasting legacy. The song’s motivational message and infectious rhythm have made it a favorite among fans and critics alike. It has been featured in several films and television shows, including The Walking Dead and Suicide Squad, further cementing its cultural impact. The track was the first song played at the 2015 MTV Video Music Awards and received a nomination for Best Original Song at the 88th Academy Awards.

The song’s influence extends beyond its original release, with numerous artists such as Machine Gun Kelly, Skylar Grey, and Halestorm covering it. These covers highlight the song’s universal appeal and enduring relevance in the music industry.

Conclusion

Eminem’s “Kings Never Die” stands as a testament to resilience and the enduring spirit of those who refuse to be forgotten. For Eminem, the song is a deeply personal tribute to his dog, King, whose memory lives on through the powerful lyrics and poignant melodies. As fans continue to draw inspiration from this track, it serves as a reminder of the profound bond between humans and their pets, and the lasting impact they leave on our lives.