Eminem, one of the most iconic rappers of all time, has always been candid about his struggles with mental health and addiction. In a recent interview on Sway in the Morning on SiriusXM’s Shade 45, the artist opened up about the therapeutic effects of rapping and how music has helped him navigate the turbulent waters of fame.

Throughout his career, Eminem has been known for his brutally honest lyrics, many of which delve into his personal battles. From dealing with depression to overcoming substance abuse, his music has been a raw and unfiltered outlet for his pain. According to the rapper, it’s this very aspect of rap that has allowed him to cope and heal. He shared that one of the greatest things about the genre is the ability to put one’s life into it. “You could put so much of your life in it,” he explained during the interview.

This cathartic process has been especially important for Eminem. His struggles with addiction, particularly his near-fatal overdose in 2007, have been widely documented, and his lyrics have often served as a window into the torment he faced. But beyond just a form of self-expression, rap has been a lifeline for him. It allowed him to process his darkest moments and emerge from them with a sense of purpose.

Eminem also took a moment to highlight how important music, not just his own, has been in keeping his creativity alive. He mentioned Westside Boogie’s album MORE BLACK SUPERHEROES, which was released recently. “Watching [Boogie] just keep getting better and better and better is incredible too,” Eminem said, emphasizing the importance of new voices and fresh perspectives in the music industry. Boogie, much like Eminem, channels his life experiences into his music, which creates a relatable, therapeutic experience for both the artist and the listener.

For Eminem, rap music isn’t just a career—it’s a lifeline. It has allowed him to work through his mental health struggles and substance abuse issues while providing a way for others to connect with his experiences. Whether he’s sharing his story or finding inspiration from the work of others, it’s clear that music is both a form of therapy and a source of strength for one of the most successful artists in the world.

As Eminem continues to evolve as an artist, his openness about the dark side of fame and the healing power of music will undoubtedly inspire fans and fellow musicians alike. The journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth is ongoing, but one thing remains certain: music, for Eminem, is the ultimate source of salvation.