Joey Bada$$ Says ‘Infinite’ Is His Favorite Eminem Album – But His Explanation Has the Internet Buzzing

In a recent explosive revelation, Joey Bada$$, the acclaimed New York rapper known for his lyrical mastery and dedication to classic hip-hop, shocked fans worldwide by claiming that his favorite Eminem album isn’t one of the household names everyone expected. While many might immediately think of The Slim Shady LP or The Marshall Mathers LP, Joey boldly declared that Eminem’s independently released debut, Infinite, holds a special place in his heart.

The revelation came during a candid conversation on Shade45, the radio station owned by Eminem himself. Joey, reflecting on his early teenage years, explained that the album had a profound impact on him during a critical moment in his development as an artist. “That one had me in the clutch when I was coming out, at 17-18,” Joey said, emphasizing how Infinite shaped his early understanding of rap and lyrical craftsmanship.

For those unfamiliar, Infinite, originally released in November 1996, is a rare gem in Eminem’s discography. Unlike the multi-platinum records that followed, Infinite was initially available only on cassette and vinyl, making it a collector’s item and a hidden treasure for hardcore fans. Despite its relative obscurity, Joey’s admiration signals a deep respect for Eminem’s roots and the raw, unpolished talent that would later dominate the global music scene.

Why Infinite Matters to Joey Bada$$

Joey didn’t stop at just naming his favorite album. He went on to praise Eminem’s broader body of work, including The Slim Shady LP, calling them his “favorite bodies of work from Em.” Joey went further, saluting the rap legend: “That’s a GOAT. That’s a Rap God right there. Salute. I’ve never met him.” His words reflect not just admiration but also a recognition of Eminem’s unparalleled influence on the art of hip-hop and rap lyricism.

The mention of Infinite is particularly intriguing because the album is widely considered a foundational work rather than a mainstream success. It features Eminem experimenting with complex rhyme schemes, storytelling, and emotional vulnerability — elements that would later define his iconic style. By highlighting Infinite, Joey implicitly signals a preference for authenticity and artistic integrity over commercial fame, a sentiment shared by many rap purists.

The Hidden Gems in Eminem’s Early Work

Fans of Eminem will know that even before his commercial breakthrough, the rapper was already pushing boundaries. Tracks like “Everybody’s Looking At Me” reveal an artist experimenting with freestyle, collaboration, and storytelling. The song, produced by Dr. Dre, has roots in a 2002 Funkmaster Flex freestyle, showcasing Eminem’s improvisational brilliance. Originally intended for The Eminem Show, snippets of the track hint at its early developmental stages, including a guest verse from Proof, absent in the soundtrack version.

Joey’s recognition of these nuances highlights his deep understanding of rap history. It’s not just the hits that define greatness; it’s the effort, the experimental tracks, and the artistic risks taken in albums like Infinite that shape the legacy of a true rap icon.

Eminem’s Grammy Controversies and Unstoppable Influence

Joey’s admiration also intersects with Eminem’s well-documented career milestones. Eminem famously performed at the Grammys with Elton John, wearing a pink GLAAD T-shirt, sparking both praise and controversy. In tracks like “Everybody’s Looking At Me,” Eminem reflects on these moments, questioning the industry’s standards while maintaining his unique artistic voice. The combination of defiance and vulnerability is exactly what draws artists like Joey to Eminem’s work.

At the premiere of the documentary Stans, which chronicles Eminem’s career and the sometimes obsessive devotion of his fans, the rapper himself reflected on the surreal nature of his influence. Making an unannounced appearance in New York, Eminem acknowledged, “When I was writing the song ‘Stan,’ I think I was just understanding the impact that my music was having on some people. And it’s so crazy to me to look at, over my career, just the fact that I was able to impact people.”

These reflections underscore why artists like Joey Bada$$ continue to draw inspiration from Eminem. It’s not just about the lyrics or the music; it’s about the emotional resonance, the connection to listeners, and the enduring cultural impact of a rap pioneer.

Fans React: A Viral Debate Ignites

Since Joey’s comments went public, social media has erupted. Fans flooded platforms with discussions about the underrated nature of Infinite and how Joey’s choice sheds new light on Eminem’s early work. Hashtags like #InfiniteIsGOAT, #JoeyBada$$Speaks, and #EminemInfluence trended on Twitter, generating thousands of shares, comments, and reactions within hours.

Many fans expressed surprise, arguing that albums like The Marshall Mathers LP or The Eminem Show would naturally take the top spot. Others praised Joey’s choice, noting that recognizing Infinite reflects a true understanding of rap history and lyrical craftsmanship. The debate highlights not just fandom but also the nuanced perspectives emerging in modern hip-hop discourse — where underground credibility and authentic appreciation often hold more weight than commercial success.

Joey Bada$$’s Legacy and Respect for Rap History

Joey Bada$$ has long been known as an artist who bridges classic hip-hop sensibilities with modern lyricism. By publicly praising Infinite, he reinforces his own position as a rapper deeply committed to the roots of the genre. This revelation isn’t just about personal preference; it’s a statement about what makes rap timeless, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, technical skill, and artistic courage.

Moreover, Joey’s comments remind fans that the influence of hip-hop icons like Eminem extends beyond commercial charts. It’s about mentorship through music, inspiration through lyrics, and the impact of albums that may not have dominated the radio but shaped the minds of future stars.

Why Infinite Is More Relevant Than Ever

Despite being over two decades old, Infinite continues to resonate. Its scarcity — only released on cassette and vinyl — adds to its mystique. For young artists like Joey, discovering Infinite is akin to uncovering a hidden blueprint of rap mastery. It’s a reminder that greatness isn’t always immediate or obvious; sometimes it’s subtle, requiring deep listening and appreciation for the craft.

This fascination also reflects a broader trend in hip-hop culture: a growing respect for authenticity, historical context, and artistic evolution. As streaming platforms make every track accessible, albums like Infinite gain renewed relevance, attracting a new generation of fans and inspiring conversations that bridge generations of hip-hop lovers.

The Bigger Picture: How Joey’s Admiration Impacts Fans

Joey’s public admiration for Infinite does more than honor Eminem; it also reframes conversations about hip-hop influence. By elevating a lesser-known work, he encourages fans to explore beyond mainstream hits and discover the roots of lyrical innovation. This approach fosters deeper engagement, sparks curiosity, and reinforces the idea that true artistry often lies beneath the surface.

It’s no wonder that the post announcing Joey’s favorite album went viral. The combination of a respected modern rapper, a legendary figure like Eminem, and the unexpected choice of Infinite creates a perfect storm for social media buzz, clicks, shares, and reactions.

Conclusion: Joey Bada$$, Eminem, and the Timelessness of Great Music

Joey Bada$$’s revelation is a potent reminder that hip-hop isn’t just about hits; it’s about influence, artistry, and the stories behind the music. By naming Infinite as his favorite Eminem album, Joey celebrates not only Eminem’s early genius but also the enduring power of authenticity in rap.

For fans, this is more than trivia — it’s a lesson in listening deeply, respecting the craft, and appreciating the subtle genius that often precedes fame. As social media debates rage and fans dig out old cassettes and vinyl copies of Infinite, one thing is clear: Joey Bada$$ has reignited interest in a hidden gem of hip-hop history, reminding us all why Eminem is truly a Rap God, and why some albums, though obscure, leave an indelible mark on generations of artists.