Eminem's Longevity and Fame: Music & Sneakers
Marshall Mathers, better known as Eminem, stands as one of the most influential and best-selling musical artists of all time. With a career spanning over three decades and more than 220 million records sold worldwide, Eminem's impact extends far beyond the realm of hip-hop. His influence reaches into popular culture, fashion, and perhaps most notably for sneaker enthusiasts, the world of footwear collaborations.
Eminem's partnerships with Nike and Jordan Brand have resulted in some of the most coveted and rare sneakers in existence. These collaborations not only reflect Eminem's personal style and brand but also represent significant moments in his career and charitable endeavors. From limited-edition Air Jordans to exclusive Nike models, Eminem's sneaker collaborations have become grails for collectors and fans alike, often fetching astronomical prices in the resale market.
As we anticipate the release of his new album, "The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce)," on July 12, 2024, it's the perfect time to look back at the impressive lineage of Eminem's sneaker collaborations. This retrospective not only showcases the intersection of hip-hop royalty and sneaker culture but also provides insight into the evolution of both Eminem's career and the sneaker industry itself.
In this article, we'll take a chronological journey through Eminem's sneaker collaborations, from official releases to ultra-rare samples. We'll explore the stories behind these iconic shoes, their connections to Eminem's music and philanthropic efforts, and their lasting impact on sneaker culture. Whether you're a die-hard Eminem fan, a sneaker aficionado, or simply curious about the convergence of music and fashion, this comprehensive look at Shady's kicks is sure to fascinate and inform.
A Chronological Timeline of Eminem's Sneaker Collaborations:
2003: Nike Artist Series 'Shady Burst' (Nike Air Burst)
The 'Shady Burst' marked Eminem's first official sneaker collaboration. Limited to 1,000 pairs, this release set the tone for the exclusivity that would become a hallmark of Eminem's sneaker collaborations.
Key details:
- Limited to 1,000 pairs
- Numbered on the tongue tags from 0 to 1,000
- Some pairs were given away at a private launch party for the movie "8 Mile"
Notable Variations:
Nike Shady Burst ‘The Eminem Show’ [Sample]
Key details:
- SAMPLE Version with alleged 'THE EMINEM SHOW' insole tags
2004: Nike Air Force 1 Collaborations
In 2004, Eminem's partnership with Nike expanded with a series of Air Force 1 releases, each limited to approximately 50 pairs.
Nike Air Force 1 'Shady Records (Black)'
SKU: BMB592 M2 C1
Nike Air Force 1 'Encore'
SKU: BMB787-M6-C1
Nike Air Force 1 'Shady Records (White)'
SKU: 306033-112
These releases coincided with Eminem's "Encore" album and the growing success of Shady Records. The extreme rarity of these sneakers has made them some of the most sought-after Air Force 1s ever produced.
Notable Mention:
Nike Air Force 1 x Eminem "Shady Records" [TOUR SIGNED]
- 1 of 1 pair signed by Eminem, Dr. Dre, 50 Cent, and D12
- Created for the Anger Management Tour
- Released for auction sale in 2017
2005: Eminem x Air Jordan 4 "ENCORE"
This collaboration marked Eminem's first partnership with Jordan Brand and has become one of the most legendary sneaker releases of all time.
Key details:
- Only 50 pairs of the original version were made
- Inspired by the colors of Eminem's "Encore" album
- Features a blue nubuck upper with red and gray accents
Notable variations:
a) Original sample UNDFTD x Air Jordan 4 Blue Pair (2003):
Key details:
- Initial Undefeated Sample inspired by Eddie Cruz's Blackberry color
- Eminem saw these during a campus tour, leading to his own collaboration.
b) TERROR SQUAD "ENCORE" 4:
Key details:
- 1 of only 2 pairs in existence
- Similar to Eminem "Encore" 4s, but with embroidered red 'TS' on the heel tab
b) Eminem x Air Jordan 4 "Encore G.Humphrey" Sample:
Key details:
- 1 of 3 pairs made, specifically for Gentry Humphrey
- Differences include traditional polymer eyelet wing, lighter grey soles, and "Air Jordan" instead of "Eminem" on the tongue
- The extreme rarity and unique colorway of the "ENCORE" Jordan 4s have made them one of the most valuable sneakers in existence, with pairs selling for tens of thousands of dollars.
c) "ENCORE" 4 [Gentry Sample] (2012):
Key details:
- 1 of only 3 pairs in existence
- Testing sample for Jordan 4 ‘Encore Reissue’ for Eminem’s 2017 release of ‘Revival.’
2006: "Charity Series" Collection
In 2006, Eminem partnered with Nike for a charity initiative, resulting in a series of extremely limited Air Max models. Each model in this series was limited to just 8 pairs, and was auctioned at the Eminem x Nike "Air Celebration" Auction in 2006.
- Eminem x Nike Air Max 90 “EMINEM”
- Eminem x Nike Air Max 93 "D12"
- Eminem x Nike Air 180 "Shade 45"
- Paul Rosenberg x Nike Air Max 95 "Goliath"
- Eminem x Nike Air Max 97 "Shady Records"
- Christian Clancy x Air Max 360 "Interscope Records"
- Eminem x Nike Air Max 2003 "E"
2008: Air Jordan 2 "The Way I Am"
This collaboration coincided with the release of Eminem's autobiography of the same name.
Key details:
- Limited to 313 pairs (a nod to Detroit's area code), but released in NYC
- Features lyrics from Eminem's song "The Way I Am" on the upper
- Black and red colorway
Notable Mention:
a) Eminem x Air Jordan 2 Sample
Key details:
- Shown only at the private "THE WAY I AM" book launch event
- Features scribbled lyrics across the entire upper instead of just the mudguard
- Red colored heel panel instead of the retail release of black
- Mockup provided by @JFGRAILS on Instagram
2009: Vans Syndicate Slip-On Eminem Shady Records Sample
While this collaboration never saw an official release, it's an interesting footnote in Eminem's sneaker history.
Key details:
- Upper design reminiscent of the Shady Records compilation album
- Never officially released
2011: Eminem x Converse "BAD MEETS EVIL"
This collaboration marked a departure from Nike and Jordan Brand, coinciding with the release of Eminem and Royce da 5'9"'s joint album 'Hell: The Sequel'.
Key details:
- Limited to 100 pairs
- Released exclusively at New York area Converse stores
- Extremely rare, with Eminem reportedly not owning a personal pair
2012: Air Jordan 3 "EMINEM" - P.T Urgent SAMPLE
While not an official release, this sample represents another interesting chapter in Eminem's Jordan Brand collaborations.
Key details:
- SKU: MNJDLS-024-362010
- Produced on 09/11/2012
- Made in Nike Taiwan Factory
- Only 1 pair known and seen ever
- Traditional white cement colorway with unique details
- Features Detroit city insoles with the 'E' logo and 'EMINEM' on either insole
This rare sample showcases the ongoing relationship between Eminem and Jordan Brand, even in years without official releases. It demonstrates the brand's continued interest in collaborating with the artist and exploring design concepts that may or may not make it to production.
2015: Air Jordan 4 "Carhartt"
This collaboration brought together three major icons: Eminem, Jordan Brand, and Carhartt. Carhartt’s midwest spirit and work-wear culture meets streetwear donning the upper of the Air Jordan 4. This release was only available to the public via an eBay auction, and only 10 pairs were available to the public, while the remainder went into Marshall’s vault to be given out to friends and artists.
Key details:
- Approximately 313 pairs made
- 10 pairs auctioned via eBay for charity
- Black Carhartt twill upper with chrome accents
- Eminem occasionally gives pairs to artists he likes
2017: Eminem x Air Jordan 4 "ENCORE" [Reissued]
A reissue of the iconic 2005 release, with some modifications.
Key details:
- 23 pairs made for Michael Jordan and the StockX charity auction
- Slight color variations from the original 2005 release
2018: Eminem x Air Jordan 4 "Shady XV"
A custom collaboration to commemorate the Shady Records compilation album.
Key details:
- Custom created by @Mache on Instagram
- Only 3 pairs total (for Eminem, his manager Paul, and potentially for an NFT buyer)
2022: Air Jordan 3 "Slim Shady"
One of Eminem's most recent and public sneaker moments.
Key details:
- Extremely limited, possibly only 3 pairs in existence
- Two versions made: one with black heel tabs, one with white
- Debuted by Eminem at the Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show
- Fat Joe and Mayor confirmed as another owners
Special Mentions:
Nike Air Max Wright ("Secondhand Smoke")
- While not an official collaboration, this pair is significant as Eminem's worn shoes during the Home & Home Tour with Jay-Z
- Sold on StockX 2017 Auction, 1 of 1 pair worn by Eminem
Eminem x Reebok "Shady" S-Carter Low
- A unique gift to Eminem from Jay-Z and Reebok
- Based on Jay-Z's S. Carter low, inspired by Gucci 84 Tennis Sneaker
- All-white colorway with 'Shady' embroidered on the heel
- 1 of 1 pair, owned by Sotheby's
These additions provide a more comprehensive view of Eminem's impact on sneaker culture, including unofficial collaborations, samples, and gifts that contribute to his sneaker legacy.
2024 (Upcoming): New album "The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce)"
While not a sneaker release, this upcoming album release on July 12, 2024, could potentially lead to new sneaker collaborations or releases.
Throughout this timeline, we've seen how Eminem's sneaker collaborations have often tied into significant moments in his career, from album releases to charitable initiatives. The extreme rarity of most of these releases has made them some of the most valuable and sought-after sneakers in existence.
Resell and Aftermarket Value:
Current Market Status and Resell Values
The extreme rarity and cultural significance of Eminem's sneaker collaborations have led to some astronomical resale prices in the collector's market. While values can fluctuate based on condition, size, and market demand, here are some notable examples of the current resale landscape:
Eminem x Air Jordan 4 "ENCORE" (2005)
- Considered one of the holy grails of sneaker collecting
- Pairs have sold for over $50,000, with some listings reaching as high as $100,000
Eminem x Air Jordan 4 "Carhartt" (2015)
- Regularly fetches between $20,000 to $30,000 on the resale market
- A pair was sold at a charity auction for $227,552 in 2015
Eminem x Nike Air Force 1 "Shady Records" (both black and white versions)
- Valued at over $20,000 per pair
- Prices can vary significantly due to their extreme rarity
Eminem x Air Jordan 2 "The Way I Am" (2008)
- Despite being less rare than some other collaborations, these still command prices around $7,000 to $10,000
Eminem x Nike Air Burst "Shady Burst" (2003)
- While originally more accessible, these now sell for $3,000 to $5,000 when in good condition
BAD MEETS EVIL x Converse (2011)
- Although less valuable than the Nike and Jordan collaborations, these still fetch around $1,000 to $2,000
It's important to note that due to the extreme rarity of most Eminem collaborations, establishing consistent market prices can be challenging. Many of these sneakers rarely come up for sale, and when they do, prices can vary widely based on the specific circumstances of the sale.
Furthermore, the value of these sneakers extends beyond their monetary worth. For many collectors, these pieces represent significant moments in sneaker culture and hip-hop history, making them priceless additions to any collection.
As with any high-value collectibles, potential buyers should be cautious of counterfeits and always verify authenticity when considering a purchase.
Marching Dogs Vault: Inside the Marching Dogs Vault: Our Eminem Collection
At Marching Dogs, we pride ourselves on our commitment to preserving sneaker history, especially when it comes to rare and significant collaborations. Our Eminem collection showcases some of the most coveted pieces from his partnership with various sneaker brands. Here's a glimpse into our vault:
- Eminem x Nike Air Force 1 "Shady Records" (Black and White)
Both pairs in our collection are size 10 and show signs of heavy wear. These sneakers are not just collectibles but pieces that have lived a full life, each scuff telling a story of the era when Shady Records was at its peak.
- Eminem x Nike Burst
We're fortunate to have two pairs of this iconic collaboration, in sizes 11 and 13. While both are starting to show their age with some crumbling, they remain a testament to Eminem's early forays into sneaker collaborations. What makes our pairs truly special are the accompanying extremely rare Nike 8 Mile after-party invites and accessories, providing a unique glimpse into the cultural moment surrounding Eminem's semi-autobiographical film.
- BAD MEETS EVIL x Converse
Our collection includes two pairs of this rare collaboration, in sizes 9 and 11. These sneakers represent a unique moment in Eminem's career when he reunited with Royce da 5'9" for their joint project.
- Eminem x Air Jordan 2 "THE WAY I AM" [Promo Sample]
This size 10.5 promo pair, complete with the promotional shirt, is a true gem. As a sample, it offers insight into the design process and may have subtle differences from the final release.
- Air Jordan 3 "Interscope"
While not directly an Eminem collaboration, this pair represents his connection to Interscope Records. Made exclusively for friends and artists of the label, it's a piece of hip-hop and sneaker history.
Our collection also includes various other collectibles, merchandise, and autographed products related to Eminem, which we're keeping under wraps for now.
As collectors, what makes these sneakers truly special to us is not just their rarity or market value, but the stories they tell. Each pair represents a moment in Eminem's career and the broader cultural landscape of hip-hop and sneaker culture. From the early Nike Burst collaboration to the later Jordan Brand partnerships, these sneakers chart the evolution of Eminem's impact on fashion and his growth as an artist.
Preserving these pieces allows us to maintain a tangible connection to pivotal moments in sneaker history. It's not just about owning rare shoes; it's about safeguarding a part of cultural heritage that intertwines music, fashion, and art.
Looking to the Future
As we anticipate the release of Eminem's new album, "The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce)," on July 12, 2024, we're reminded of the enduring impact Marshall Mathers has had not just on music, but on sneaker culture as well. From the early Nike Burst collaborations to the highly coveted Jordan Brand partnerships, Eminem's journey through the sneaker world mirrors his evolution as an artist. These collaborations have become more than just footwear; they're pieces of hip-hop history, cherished by collectors and fans alike. As Eminem continues to push boundaries in his music, we can only speculate about what future sneaker collaborations might be in store. One thing is certain: whatever comes next will be as unpredictable, innovative, and impactful as the artist himself.