# What is “Walk on Water” about – Eminem
Eminem, one of the most influential and controversial figures in the history of hip hop, released his single “Walk on Water” in 2017. Collaborating with Beyoncé, this track aims to delve into Eminem’s struggle with his own fame, his vulnerability, and the immense pressure he faces as an artist. In this article, we will explore the background and meaning of “Walk on Water”, providing relevant perspectives from experts and offering personal insights and analysis.
## Background and Inspiration
“Walk on Water” is the lead single from Eminem’s ninth studio album, “Revival,” which was released in December 2017. The song begins with a haunting piano melody, setting a melancholic tone that perfectly complements the introspective lyrics. Eminem wrote the track in collaboration with Skylar Grey and Beyoncé, the latter providing the emotional and powerful chorus.
The inspiration behind “Walk on Water” stems from Eminem’s own journey as an artist, the weight of his career, and the lofty expectations placed upon him. As a rap legend, Eminem has had to continuously prove himself and live up to the enormous success of his earlier albums. The hook, beautifully rendered by Beyoncé, expresses Eminem’s struggle to meet these expectations: “Why, are expectations so high? Is it the bar I set, my arms outstretched, but I can’t reach? Far cry from it or it’s in my grasp, but as soon as I grab squeeze, I lose my grip like the flyin’ trapeze.”
## Vulnerability and Reflection
“Walk on Water” is a deeply personal and introspective track, which showcases Eminem’s vulnerability in the face of fame and criticism. In the song, he acknowledges his imperfections and questions his own abilities as an artist. He contemplates the impact his music has on his fans and the world, pondering whether he can still make a meaningful impact in an era saturated with music.
Throughout the song, Eminem reflects on the highs and lows of his career, including his past successes and the fear of not being able to replicate them. He exposes the struggles he faces both professionally and emotionally, demonstrating that even the most successful artists grapple with self-doubt: “It’s the curse of the standard that the first of the Mathers disc set, always in search of the verse that I haven’t spit yet.”
## Expert Perspectives
According to music critic David Turner from *The Ringer*, “Walk on Water” is a bold departure from Eminem’s previous work, as he trades in his characteristic aggression for vulnerability. Turner notes that the song serves as a reflection on Eminem’s own struggles with his legacy, and while it may not be as sonically spectacular as some of his other tracks, it makes up for it with emotional depth and raw lyricism.
Samantha O’Connor, a music journalist for *NME*, praises Eminem’s willingness to expose his own insecurities, stating that “Walk on Water” is a testament to his growth as an artist. O’Connor highlights the collaboration with Beyoncé, describing her contribution as an embodiment of Eminem’s thoughts and fears, creating a resonating and powerful message.
## Personal Insights and Analysis
“Walk on Water” stands as an intriguing departure from Eminem’s usual style, showcasing a more introspective and self-reflective side of the artist. As a long-time fan, this track resonates deeply with me, as it explores the pressures faced by artists and the constant burden of meeting expectations, even for someone as successful as Eminem.
In my interpretation, “Walk on Water” emphasizes the struggle to maintain relevance and artistic integrity amidst the ever-evolving music industry. Eminem’s lyrics act as a call to fellow musicians and creators, daring them to confront their own vulnerabilities and fears. The haunting piano and emotive vocals add to the introspective atmosphere of the song, allowing the listener to connect on a deeper level with Eminem’s exploration of his own legacy.
## Section 2: Eminem’s Faith and Spirituality
### Background on Eminem’s Faith
Eminem’s journey with faith and spirituality has been a complex and evolving one. Raised in a predominantly Christian household, Eminem embraced Christianity during his early years, often referring to God and his religious beliefs in his lyrics. However, as his fame grew and he faced personal struggles, his relationship with religion became more ambiguous.
### The Role of Religion in “Walk on Water”
In “Walk on Water,” Eminem subtly touches on his ongoing struggles with faith and spirituality. The song portrays his frustration with the pressures placed on him as a human being and artist while questioning the role religion plays in providing comfort and guidance. The lyrics, “But I’m only human, just like you, I’ve been making my mistakes, so if you only knew the truth, I’d never let you down,” imply that Eminem has had his fair share of missteps and, despite his faith, remains a fallible individual.
### Perspective from Experts
Music journalist Joseph Schafer, in an article for *Spin*, examines the conflicted nature of Eminem’s relationship with religion in “Walk on Water.” Schafer posits that Eminem’s lyrics reveal a sense of disillusionment and a struggle to reconcile his personal imperfections with the expectations set by religious doctrines. He argues that the song offers a glimpse into a vulnerable and relatable side of the artist’s spiritual journey.
### Personal Insights and Analysis
Eminem’s exploration of his faith in “Walk on Water” showcases the internal conflicts and questions many individuals face on their own spiritual paths. As a listener, I find this vulnerability to be incredibly compelling and relatable. Eminem’s struggle with maintaining his faith while navigating the challenges of fame and self-doubt serves as a reminder that spirituality is an ongoing journey, often filled with doubts and uncertainties.
## Section 3: Sociocultural Impact of “Walk on Water”
### Addressing Sociocultural Issues
Eminem is known for addressing sociocultural issues and controversial topics in his music. In “Walk on Water,” he continues this tradition, albeit in a more introspective manner. The track focuses less on external issues and more on Eminem’s own struggle with fame, but it still leads to discussions about the social and cultural pressures placed on artists.
### The Pressure of Expectations
One sociocultural aspect that “Walk on Water” highlights is the immense pressure on artists to continuously surpass their previous work. Eminem’s lyrics convey his frustration with the expectations set by the industry, fans, and critics. This theme resonates with many artists across various disciplines who face the constant demand for groundbreaking and original content.
### Personal Insights and Analysis
“Walk on Water” provides a lens through which we can examine the broader sociocultural issue of society’s expectations of success and continuous improvement. In a world driven by instant gratification and the hunger for novelty, the pressure on artists to constantly exceed their previous achievements can be suffocating. Eminem’s candid discussion of this pressure helps shed light on the toll it can take on individuals’ mental health and creative output.
## Section 4: Beyoncé’s Collaboration and Influence
### Beyoncé’s Significance in “Walk on Water”
The collaboration between Eminem and Beyoncé on “Walk on Water” added another layer of meaning and influence to the track. Beyoncé’s powerful vocals capture the raw emotions behind Eminem’s introspective lyrics, elevating the song’s impact and reach.
### The Strength of Beyoncé’s Vocals
Beyoncé’s decision to collaborate on this track was a strategic one, as her vocal prowess serves as a conduit for Eminem’s vulnerability and struggles. Her inclusion signifies the importance of female empowerment and solidarity within the music industry.
### Personal Insights and Analysis
Beyoncé’s contribution to “Walk on Water” should not be underestimated. Her powerful vocals and emotional delivery enhance the depth and impact of Eminem’s lyrics. As a fan of both artists, this collaboration resonates strongly with me, as it showcases the strength and unity that can be achieved through artistic collaboration and mutual support.
Overall, “Walk on Water” stands as a significant milestone in Eminem’s discography, delving deep into his vulnerabilities, struggles with fame, and self-doubt. The introspective nature of the track, accentuated by the haunting piano melody and Beyoncé’s powerful vocals, allows listeners to connect on a profound level with the inner thoughts and emotions of one of hip hop’s greatest artists. Through this song, Eminem reminds us that even the most successful individuals face their own demons and challenges, encouraging others to confront their fears and strive for authenticity in their own creative pursuits.
Eminem, one of the most influential and controversial figures in the history of hip hop, released his single “Walk on Water” in 2017. Collaborating with Beyoncé, this track aims to delve into Eminem’s struggle with his own fame, his vulnerability, and the immense pressure he faces as an artist. In this article, we will explore the background and meaning of “Walk on Water”, providing relevant perspectives from experts and offering personal insights and analysis.
## Background and Inspiration
“Walk on Water” is the lead single from Eminem’s ninth studio album, “Revival,” which was released in December 2017. The song begins with a haunting piano melody, setting a melancholic tone that perfectly complements the introspective lyrics. Eminem wrote the track in collaboration with Skylar Grey and Beyoncé, the latter providing the emotional and powerful chorus.
The inspiration behind “Walk on Water” stems from Eminem’s own journey as an artist, the weight of his career, and the lofty expectations placed upon him. As a rap legend, Eminem has had to continuously prove himself and live up to the enormous success of his earlier albums. The hook, beautifully rendered by Beyoncé, expresses Eminem’s struggle to meet these expectations: “Why, are expectations so high? Is it the bar I set, my arms outstretched, but I can’t reach? Far cry from it or it’s in my grasp, but as soon as I grab squeeze, I lose my grip like the flyin’ trapeze.”
## Vulnerability and Reflection
“Walk on Water” is a deeply personal and introspective track, which showcases Eminem’s vulnerability in the face of fame and criticism. In the song, he acknowledges his imperfections and questions his own abilities as an artist. He contemplates the impact his music has on his fans and the world, pondering whether he can still make a meaningful impact in an era saturated with music.
Throughout the song, Eminem reflects on the highs and lows of his career, including his past successes and the fear of not being able to replicate them. He exposes the struggles he faces both professionally and emotionally, demonstrating that even the most successful artists grapple with self-doubt: “It’s the curse of the standard that the first of the Mathers disc set, always in search of the verse that I haven’t spit yet.”
## Expert Perspectives
According to music critic David Turner from *The Ringer*, “Walk on Water” is a bold departure from Eminem’s previous work, as he trades in his characteristic aggression for vulnerability. Turner notes that the song serves as a reflection on Eminem’s own struggles with his legacy, and while it may not be as sonically spectacular as some of his other tracks, it makes up for it with emotional depth and raw lyricism.
Samantha O’Connor, a music journalist for *NME*, praises Eminem’s willingness to expose his own insecurities, stating that “Walk on Water” is a testament to his growth as an artist. O’Connor highlights the collaboration with Beyoncé, describing her contribution as an embodiment of Eminem’s thoughts and fears, creating a resonating and powerful message.
## Personal Insights and Analysis
“Walk on Water” stands as an intriguing departure from Eminem’s usual style, showcasing a more introspective and self-reflective side of the artist. As a long-time fan, this track resonates deeply with me, as it explores the pressures faced by artists and the constant burden of meeting expectations, even for someone as successful as Eminem.
In my interpretation, “Walk on Water” emphasizes the struggle to maintain relevance and artistic integrity amidst the ever-evolving music industry. Eminem’s lyrics act as a call to fellow musicians and creators, daring them to confront their own vulnerabilities and fears. The haunting piano and emotive vocals add to the introspective atmosphere of the song, allowing the listener to connect on a deeper level with Eminem’s exploration of his own legacy.
## Section 2: Eminem’s Faith and Spirituality
### Background on Eminem’s Faith
Eminem’s journey with faith and spirituality has been a complex and evolving one. Raised in a predominantly Christian household, Eminem embraced Christianity during his early years, often referring to God and his religious beliefs in his lyrics. However, as his fame grew and he faced personal struggles, his relationship with religion became more ambiguous.
### The Role of Religion in “Walk on Water”
In “Walk on Water,” Eminem subtly touches on his ongoing struggles with faith and spirituality. The song portrays his frustration with the pressures placed on him as a human being and artist while questioning the role religion plays in providing comfort and guidance. The lyrics, “But I’m only human, just like you, I’ve been making my mistakes, so if you only knew the truth, I’d never let you down,” imply that Eminem has had his fair share of missteps and, despite his faith, remains a fallible individual.
### Perspective from Experts
Music journalist Joseph Schafer, in an article for *Spin*, examines the conflicted nature of Eminem’s relationship with religion in “Walk on Water.” Schafer posits that Eminem’s lyrics reveal a sense of disillusionment and a struggle to reconcile his personal imperfections with the expectations set by religious doctrines. He argues that the song offers a glimpse into a vulnerable and relatable side of the artist’s spiritual journey.
### Personal Insights and Analysis
Eminem’s exploration of his faith in “Walk on Water” showcases the internal conflicts and questions many individuals face on their own spiritual paths. As a listener, I find this vulnerability to be incredibly compelling and relatable. Eminem’s struggle with maintaining his faith while navigating the challenges of fame and self-doubt serves as a reminder that spirituality is an ongoing journey, often filled with doubts and uncertainties.
## Section 3: Sociocultural Impact of “Walk on Water”
### Addressing Sociocultural Issues
Eminem is known for addressing sociocultural issues and controversial topics in his music. In “Walk on Water,” he continues this tradition, albeit in a more introspective manner. The track focuses less on external issues and more on Eminem’s own struggle with fame, but it still leads to discussions about the social and cultural pressures placed on artists.
### The Pressure of Expectations
One sociocultural aspect that “Walk on Water” highlights is the immense pressure on artists to continuously surpass their previous work. Eminem’s lyrics convey his frustration with the expectations set by the industry, fans, and critics. This theme resonates with many artists across various disciplines who face the constant demand for groundbreaking and original content.
### Personal Insights and Analysis
“Walk on Water” provides a lens through which we can examine the broader sociocultural issue of society’s expectations of success and continuous improvement. In a world driven by instant gratification and the hunger for novelty, the pressure on artists to constantly exceed their previous achievements can be suffocating. Eminem’s candid discussion of this pressure helps shed light on the toll it can take on individuals’ mental health and creative output.
## Section 4: Beyoncé’s Collaboration and Influence
### Beyoncé’s Significance in “Walk on Water”
The collaboration between Eminem and Beyoncé on “Walk on Water” added another layer of meaning and influence to the track. Beyoncé’s powerful vocals capture the raw emotions behind Eminem’s introspective lyrics, elevating the song’s impact and reach.
### The Strength of Beyoncé’s Vocals
Beyoncé’s decision to collaborate on this track was a strategic one, as her vocal prowess serves as a conduit for Eminem’s vulnerability and struggles. Her inclusion signifies the importance of female empowerment and solidarity within the music industry.
### Personal Insights and Analysis
Beyoncé’s contribution to “Walk on Water” should not be underestimated. Her powerful vocals and emotional delivery enhance the depth and impact of Eminem’s lyrics. As a fan of both artists, this collaboration resonates strongly with me, as it showcases the strength and unity that can be achieved through artistic collaboration and mutual support.
Overall, “Walk on Water” stands as a significant milestone in Eminem’s discography, delving deep into his vulnerabilities, struggles with fame, and self-doubt. The introspective nature of the track, accentuated by the haunting piano melody and Beyoncé’s powerful vocals, allows listeners to connect on a profound level with the inner thoughts and emotions of one of hip hop’s greatest artists. Through this song, Eminem reminds us that even the most successful individuals face their own demons and challenges, encouraging others to confront their fears and strive for authenticity in their own creative pursuits.
