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Hell Breaks Loose (CD single) (by Eminem, Rap)

common sense media says

A kinder, gentler Slim Shady. Still, not OK for kids/tweens.

parents & educators say
See all 4 reviews | Review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that they can breathe a slight sigh of relief at the release of this single. It doesn't have any of the twisted, violent imagery found on Eminem's recent albums, and it includes only a few bad words. That said, it's still not for kids or tweens, and even young teens probably aren't ready for the jokes about smoking pot, misogynistic lyrics, and references to drinking. Also, be warned: this single is found on Em's re-release, an album that's full of inappropriate content.

Positive messages: Women aren't given the most respect, and the rappers brag about how great they are.  
Positive role models: Drinking, smoking, and disrespecting women are shown to be things that make someone cool and macho.
Violence: Far less violent imagery than many Eminem songs. Only posturing from lines like, "We'll knock that stuffing out of you."
Sex: Although there's really no talk of sex, there are a few disparaging comments directed at women. Besides referencing the word "ho," the rap include the lines "ladies won't ya fill your cups, if you're a D or a C cup" and "yeah girl, shake that caboose."
Language: "S--t" is spoken a few times.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: "Grey Goose" vodka is mentioned along with several references to marijuana, like "you better lay off the blunts, you must be smoking something," and "a mongoose when it comes to the chronic use."
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Hell Breaks Loose (CD single)

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
  • Families can talk about drug references in music. What should families know about slang terms for drugs, and what code words should they be aware of? Why do you think drugs often have nicknames? Is it to keep outsiders from knowing what you're talking about, or parents from finding out?
  • Talk about rap music that uses derogatory terms about women. How do you think these references make girls feel about themselves? And how does this attitude influence boys, who are just forming romantic relationships? Do you think you can treat women with respect if you call them objectifying names?
  • Why do you think Eminem makes some songs that are significantly less violent and misogynistic than most? Is it perhaps to get younger audiences interested in his music? Should you make your music selection by individual song or based on the track record of the artist?

What's the story?

What's the story?
Having hit the top ten on the iTunes singles' chart, HELL BREAKS LOOSE is one of the first releases from the album Relapse: Refill, a re-release of the 2009 album Relapse, plus seven bonus tracks. This single features Dr.Dre playing a prominent role in the rap verses, as the duo enjoys verbal sport with each other on this rather light pop-rap.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
This track offers up a few improvements from Marshall Mathers. First, there are no depraved lyrics about murdering women and debasing them with violent sexuality. That's a good thing! Also, the lyrics actually show Em and Dre having fun with each other, something that we haven't seen in a while. Showing off their lyrical skills, the pair plays off each other's rhymes, rather than wallowing in self-absorbed lines. The song doesn't cover any new ground for the veteran rapper, though, with few verses that will make the listener say, "Wow! How does he think up these lines?" Overall, if your teen insists on listening to Eminem, this is the least offensive choice you will find.

Music themes & details

Music Details
Released on: December 22, 2009
Label: Shady Records
Genre: Rap
Parental advisory: Yes
Edited version available: Yes
This review was written by Jacqueline Rupp
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

bradley4846
teen, 17 years old
14
 
PG-13
There is a few swears (sh*t, b*tch (once), d*mn) but thats about it, its may the most clean shady song since we made u. there is some sexual things (h*, n*ts). There is another line that is suggestive but not noticable. PG-13 for some suggestive content
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sweet4ng3L
teen, 15 years old
9
 
Who cares? I love his songs! LOL I love the tune :)
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haters can ...
kid, 13 years old
2
 
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shdady13
teen, 18 years old
11
 
......
it has a few swear words and drug refrences but besides that its pretty much great.
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ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age
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