Marshall Mathers, known professionally as Eminem, is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer. Born on October 17, 1972, in St. Joseph, Missouri, he gained fame in the late 1990s with his unique style and controversial lyrics. Eminem is often credited with popularizing hip-hop among a broader audience and is recognized for his rapid-fire delivery and intricate wordplay. Throughout his career, Eminem has released multiple critically acclaimed albums, including The Slim Shady LP, The Marshall Mathers LP, and Recovery. He has won numerous awards, including Grammy Awards and an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Eminem's influence on the music industry and culture is significant, making him one of the best-selling artists of all time.