Timbaland Reflects on Eminem’s Mind-Blowing Verse on Missy Elliott’s ‘Busa Rhyme’
Renowned producer Timbaland is still marvelling at Eminem’s exceptional lyrical prowess, particularly recalling a verse the Detroit rapper delivered on Missy Elliott’s classic track “Busa Rhyme” over two decades ago.
In a recent interview snippet shared by DJ Whoo Kid, Timbaland expressed his admiration for Eminem’s unique talent in clever lyricism. The conversation delved into the recording session for “Busa Rhyme,” a track featured on Missy Elliott’s 1999 album Da Real World, produced by Timbaland himself.
“When I heard Eminem come in there and spit that verse, I was like, ‘Oh, can’t nobody see this guy.’ This boy different,” Timbaland exclaimed, emphasizing the profound impact of Eminem’s delivery.
The legendary producer specifically highlighted the memorable bars: “Well, I do pop pills, I keep my tube socks filled/ Then pop the same shit that got 2Pac killed.”
Reflecting on those two lines, Timbaland admitted, “Those two bars — I couldn’t get past that.”
This isn’t the first time Timbaland has acknowledged Eminem’s talent. Earlier this year, when revealing his Hip Hop Mount Rushmore, Timbaland included Eminem in the esteemed lineup.
In an appearance on the I AM ATHLETE podcast in April, Timbaland paid homage to influential wordsmiths who shaped his career. Among the list of impactful figures, Eminem earned his place alongside hip-hop legends such as JAY-Z, The Notorious B.I.G, 2Pac, and Nas, further solidifying his status as one of the genre’s iconic lyricists.
