Denaun Explains Why Eminem Isn’t Doing Shows Anymore

Concerts can often feel like a sea of glowing screens rather than a shared human experience, a frustration that extends even to the stage. Eminem feels the pressure of this detachment when performing for crowds glued to their mobile devices, according to his longtime friend, collaborator and hypeman Denaun Porter.

Speaking in a new interview on the 3Rd Verse Podcast with Stat Quo, Porter opened up about the stark disconnect modern audiences create by prioritizing recordings over presence. “I think Eminem has to see people actually care about him doing the show. When he does, they holding phones all the time. We hate them kind of shows,” he said.

Beyond the distraction of smartphones, the physical toll and personal habits of touring play a massive role in how the legendary rapper approaches his craft. Porter highlighted how strict routines and intense physical exertion shape their post-show reality. “Aside that, he got OCD. He got to sleep at certain time…When we get off stage, our knees are hurting. We are not like others. We jumping, running, moving. These are huge stages,” he explained.

Ultimately, that relentless energy stems from a deep-seated commitment to giving fans a genuine spectacle and ensuring no one leaves feeling shortchanged. “It’s work and he doesn’t like not giving people their money’s worth,” Porter said. You can watch the segment below:

Stat Quo asked why Eminem doesn’t perform live and this is what Denaun Porter said, on recent interviews with @3rdVersepodcast ! pic.twitter.com/4PP3AF2Ntz
— Sona (@SonaShady8) September 10, 2026

Denaun Eminem