If a true fan of rap music, you’re probably familiar with Eminem’s ever-classic song Stan.
With its haunting beat and the gripping story that unfolds over the course of six minutes, this song is one of the most memorable and iconic pieces in hip hop history. Although it was released way back in 2000, Stan still resonates deeply within rap culture today and has quite a special place in all our hearts.
Today we're going to take an up close look at why Stan became such an instant classic and what makes it stand out from other popular tunes by Eminem.
From exploring his intricate lyricism to breaking down his masterful flow - let's dive into everything there is to love about "Stan".
Stan Lyrics
[Intro: Dido]
My tea's gone cold I'm wondering why I, got out of bed at all
The morning rain clouds up my window, and I can't see at all
And even if I could it'd all be gray, but your picture on my wall
It reminds me that it's not so bad, it's not so bad
[Chorus: Dido]
My tea's gone cold I'm wondering why I, got out of bed at all
The morning rain clouds up my window, and I can't see at all
And even if I could it'd all be gray, but your picture on my wall
It reminds me that it's not so bad, it's not so bad
[Verse 1: Eminem]
Dear Slim, I wrote you, but you still ain't calling
I left my cell, my pager and my home phone at the bottom
I sent two letters back in autumn, you must not have got 'em
There probably was a problem at the post office or something
Sometimes I scribble addresses too sloppy when I jot 'em
But anyways, fuck it, what's been up, man? How's your daughter?
My girlfriend's pregnant too, I'm 'bout to be a father
If I have a daughter, guess what I'ma call her?
I'ma name her Bonnie
I read about your Uncle Ronnie too, I'm sorry
I had a friend kill himself over some bitch who didn't want him
I know you probably hear this every day, but I'm your biggest fan
I even got the underground shit that you did with Skam
I got a room full of your posters and your pictures, man
I like the shit you did with Rawkus too, that shit was fat
Anyways, I hope you get this, man, hit me back
Just to chat, truly yours, your biggest fan, this is Stan
[Chorus: Dido]
My tea's gone cold I'm wondering why I, got out of bed at all
The morning rain clouds up my window, and I can't see at all
And even if I could it'd all be gray, but your picture on my wall
It reminds me that it's not so bad, it's not so bad
[Verse 2: Eminem]
Dear Slim, you still ain't called or wrote, I hope you have a chance
I ain't mad, I just think it's fucked up you don't answer fans
If you didn't want to talk to me outside your concert, you didn't have to
But you coulda signed an autograph for Matthew
That's my little brother, man, he's only six years old
We waited in the blistering cold for you
For four hours, and you just said no
That's pretty shitty, man, you're like his fuckin' idol
He wants to be just like you, man, he likes you more than I do
I ain't that mad, though I just don't like bein' lied to
Remember when we met in Denver?
You said if I'd write you, you would write back
See, I'm just like you in a way, I never knew my father neither
He used to always cheat on my mom and beat her
I can relate to what you're saying in your songs
So when I have a shitty day, I drift away and put 'em on
‘Cause I don't really got shit else, so that shit helps when I'm depressed
I even got a tattoo with your name across the chest
Sometimes I even cut myself to see how much it bleeds
It's like adrenaline, the pain is such a sudden rush for me
See, everything you say is real, and I respect you ‘cause you tell it
My girlfriend's jealous 'cause I talk about you 24/7
But she don't know you like I know you, Slim, no one does
She don't know what it was like for people like us growin' up
You gotta call me, man, I'll be the biggest fan you'll ever lose
Sincerely yours, Stan
P.S. We should be together too
[Chorus: Dido]
My tea's gone cold I'm wondering why I, got out of bed at all
The morning rain clouds up my window, and I can't see at all
And even if I could it'd all be gray, but your picture on my wall
It reminds me that it's not so bad, it's not so bad
[Verse 3: Eminem]
Dear Mr. I'm-Too-Good-to-Call-or-Write-My-Fans
This'll be the last package I ever send your ass
It's been six months, and still no word—I don't deserve it?
I know you got my last two letters, I wrote the addresses on 'em perfect
So this is my cassette I'm sending you, I hope you hear it
I'm in the car right now, I'm doin' 90 on the freeway
Hey, Slim, I drank a fifth of vodka, you dare me to drive?
You know the song by Phil Collins, "In the Air of the Night"
About that guy who coulda saved that other guy from drowning
But didn't, then Phil saw it all, then at a show he found him?
That's kinda how this is: you coulda rescued me from drowning
Now it's too late, I'm on a thousand downers now, I'm drowsy
And all I wanted was a lousy letter or a call
I hope you know I ripped all of your pictures off the wall
I loved you, Slim, we coulda been together—think about it!
You ruined it now, I hope you can't sleep and you dream about it
And when you dream I hope you can't sleep and you scream about it
I hope your conscience eats at you and you can't breathe without me
See, Slim—shut up, bitch! I'm tryin' to talk
Hey, Slim, that's my girlfriend screaming in the trunk
But I didn't slit her throat, I just tied her up—see? I ain't like you
‘Cause if she suffocates she'll suffer more and then she'll die too
Well, gotta go, I'm almost at the bridge now
Oh, shit, I forgot—how am I supposed to send this shit out?!
[Chorus: Dido]
My tea's gone cold I'm wondering why I, got out of bed at all
The morning rain clouds up my window, and I can't see at all
And even if I could it'd all be gray, but your picture on my wall
It reminds me that it's not so bad, it's not so bad
[Verse 4: Eminem]
Dear Stan, I meant to write you sooner, but I just been busy
You said your girlfriend's pregnant now, how far along is she?
Look, I'm really flattered you would call your daughter that
And here's an autograph for your brother; I wrote it on a Starter cap
I'm sorry I didn't see you at the show, I must've missed you
Don't think I did that shit intentionally just to diss you
But what's this shit you said about you like to cut your wrists too?
I say that shit just clowning, dawg, come on, how fucked up is you?
You got some issues, Stan, I think you need some counseling
To help your ass from bouncing off the walls when you get down some
And what's this shit about us meant to be together?
That type of shit'll make me not want us to meet each other
I really think you and your girlfriend need each other
Or maybe you just need to treat her better
I hope you get to read this letter
I just hope it reaches you in time before you hurt yourself
I think that you'll be doing just fine if you relax a little
I'm glad I inspire you, but Stan
Why are you so mad?
Try to understand that I do want you as a fan
I just don't want you to do some crazy shit
I seen this one shit on the news a couple weeks ago that made me sick
Some dude was drunk and drove his car over a bridge
And had his girlfriend in the trunk, and she was pregnant with his kid
And in the car they found a tape, but they didn't say who it was to
Come to think about it, his name was—it was you
Damn…
Song Breakdown
"Stan" is a critically acclaimed song by American rapper Eminem, released in 2000 as the third single from his third studio album, "The Marshall Mathers LP." The song features British singer Dido on the chorus and tells the story of an obsessed fan, "Stan," who writes multiple letters to Eminem, only to become increasingly frustrated when the rapper fails to respond. The song's title has since become synonymous with the term "stalker fan" and has been recognized as a cultural phenomenon.
The structure of the song is unique in that it is told from two different perspectives: Eminem's and Stan's. The first three verses are written as letters from Stan to Eminem, with each verse becoming progressively darker and more desperate.
The final verse, written from Eminem's perspective, reveals that Stan has driven himself and his pregnant girlfriend off a bridge in a fit of rage. The song ends with Eminem expressing his regret at not being able to help Stan and his realization that his own fame has created a dangerous obsession in some fans.
Historical Context
The historical context of the song is important to understanding its impact. At the time of its release, Eminem was one of the most controversial figures in the music industry due to his use of violent and offensive lyrics, and his public feuds with other celebrities.
"Stan" marked a shift in Eminem's career, showcasing his ability to tell complex and nuanced stories through his music, rather than relying solely on shock value. The song also resonated with fans who related to the feelings of isolation and desperation expressed by Stan.
The lyrics of "Stan" are rich with deeper meanings and metaphors. The name "Stan" is a play on the term "stalker fan," and the letters written by Stan highlight the dangerous obsession that some fans develop with their idols.
The repeated use of the phrase "I can relate" emphasizes the idea that fans often feel a deep personal connection to their favorite artists, even though they have never met them in person. The use of Dido's song "Thank You" as the chorus creates a sense of irony, as the lyrics of the original song are about gratitude and love, while in "Stan," they are twisted to convey a darker, more obsessive sentiment.
Music Video
The music video for Stan is a visual representation of the haunting lyrics and story that unfold throughout the song. It is a three-act narrative that follows the story of an obsessed fan named Stan, played by actor Devon Sawa, who becomes increasingly unhinged in his pursuit of a response from Eminem.
In the first act, we see Stan writing multiple letters to Eminem while we witness the deterioration of his mental state through disturbing imagery. The second act shows Stan driving while listening to Eminem's music before ultimately committing a violent act.
The final act concludes with a shocking twist that does justice to the powerful lyricism. In fact, the music video's dark and gripping visuals perfectly complement the song's emotional intensity, making it a timeless classic.
The Sequel
Following the success of "Stan," Eminem released the song "Bad Guy" in 2013, which serves as a sequel to "Stan." The song features a similar structure to its predecessor, as Eminem takes on the role of Matthew Mitchell, the younger brother of Stan, who seeks revenge against Eminem for the death of his brother.
The song is divided into several sections, with the first part being told from Matthew's perspective as he plans his revenge. The second section is told from Eminem's perspective as he is kidnapped by Matthew and taken to a remote location.
The deeper meaning behind "Bad Guy" is the cyclical nature of violence and revenge. Eminem's character in "Stan" was unaware of the impact his words would have on the obsessive fan, leading to tragic consequences. In "Bad Guy," Eminem is now the victim of the cycle of violence that he played a part in creating.
The song explores themes of guilt, regret, and the consequences of one's actions. "Bad Guy" is a powerful follow-up to "Stan," not only continuing the story of the tragic fan but also serving as a commentary on the responsibilities of fame and the impact of one's words on others.
One of Eminem's more underrated tracks, if not only for the final verse of the song alone, it is a must-listen.
Conclusion
In conclusion, "Stan" is a groundbreaking song that highlights Eminem's skill as a storyteller and his ability to tackle complex and difficult subjects in his music. The song's structure, historical context, and layered meanings have contributed to its enduring popularity and cultural impact, making it one of the most iconic rap songs of all time.