Steve Miller pens heartfelt letter to Eminem

Today, Eminem released “Houdini,” the first single from his upcoming 12th solo studio album Death of Slim Shady (Coup De Grâce). The song is produced by Eminem himself and Luis Resto and it samples and interpolates 1982 song “Abracadabra” by Steve Miller Band.

Steven Miller is the founder and only remaining original member of the Steve Miller Band, which he founded in 1966, and is the principal songwriter, lead singer, harmonicist, keyboardist, and one of the guitarists. He began his career in blues and blues rock and evolved to a more pop-oriented arena rock genre during the mid-1970s through the early 1980s, releasing popular singles and albums. Miller was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016.

After Eminem dropped “Houdini,” the iconic singer penned a heartful letter to Detroit legend on X (Formerly Twitter): “Hey EM. There is a long chain of stories, poetry, lyrics, and musical roots that have crossed cultures and generations inspiring the whole world for hundreds of years and in all those lines of thought, music, and rhythm there are special artists who take it all in and create new original ideas from their own feelings and experiences. You are one of those timeless originators building something new on a long musical legacy of original artists. For me it’s Les Paul, T-Bone Walker, Bill Doggett, Johnny Guitar Watson, Howlin’ Wolf, Jimmy Reed, the Beatles, Chuck Berry, Willy Dixon, Leiber & Stoller, Cannonball Adderley, John Coltrane & Miles Davis.” said Steven Miller.

Then he continued: “I have always tried to credit, honor, and respect the major influencers in my life and to always credit, honor royalties and share knowledge of their work through my own work. I didn’t know it would be this way when I was a kid trying to make a living playing music and making records, I only knew I had to respect the art that came before me and fight for it too among all the crooks, thieves, and imposters.”

“There aren’t many artists who take the time or make the effort to stand up for themselves and credit and respect their influencers at the same time. Marshall Mathers you are an exception and on my short list of people who respect the art. To be included in your process feels good while I’m still singing and playing the music I love. I’m Honored. Thank you.” Steven Miller added. You can check the tweet below:

Hey EM,
There is a long chain of stories, poetry, lyrics, and musical roots that have crossed cultures and generations inspiring the whole world for hundreds of years… pic.twitter.com/j8JzvbvWfj
— Steve Miller Band (@SMBofficial) May 31, 2024