In a recent appearance on The Bootleg Kev Podcast, veteran rapper Xzibit opened up about his longstanding respect for Eminem, praising his originality and unwavering integrity in the ever-evolving world of hip-hop. The conversation, which also delved into Xzibit’s career and experiences with Dr. Dre, highlighted the mutual admiration between two of the genre’s most influential figures.

Reflecting on his time working with Dr. Dre, particularly on the iconic track “What’s the Difference,” Xzibit recalled the minimalist approach Dre took during recording sessions. “Dre was there, Scott Storch was there, engineers, and that’s it,” he shared. The intimate environment allowed Xzibit to fully immerse himself in the creative process, delivering a verse that fit seamlessly into the track’s powerful beat. The outcome was nothing short of legendary—a collaboration that would later become a key highlight of Dre’s 2001 album.

But it was Xzibit’s thoughts on Eminem that truly resonated during the interview. The rapper expressed deep admiration for Eminem’s ability to maintain authenticity and artistic integrity throughout his career. “I think we’re cut from the same cloth as far as our taste in hip hop is,” Xzibit remarked, acknowledging that while every artist has their own unique style, both he and Eminem share a similar vision for the culture.

The respect Xzibit has for Eminem extends beyond their shared musical tastes. He emphasized that despite the shifting dynamics of the music industry, Eminem has remained true to himself, with his integrity “still intact and still in place.” Xzibit marveled at Eminem’s ability to maintain his artistic voice while navigating the pressures of fame and success, a feat that’s often difficult to achieve in such a fast-paced and competitive environment.

Although Xzibit and Eminem aren’t necessarily the closest of friends, the two have undoubtedly shared a bond over the years, with Xzibit noting that their interactions are always full of respect. “We definitely were in the same circles, but I can’t say we are the best of friends,” he said. “When we do interact, it’s love.”

Xzibit’s words serve as a testament to the enduring power of Eminem’s influence in the world of hip-hop. In an era where many artists come and go, Eminem’s commitment to his craft and his values continues to set him apart, earning him a place among the greatest in the genre. Whether through his impactful music or his steadfast authenticity, Eminem’s legacy is one that is far from over, and Xzibit’s praise is a reminder of just how much the artist has contributed to the cultural fabric of hip-hop.