He dropped out of school at age 14, after failing year nine 3 times due to boredom, the only subject he passed was English. 
Marshal Mathers - Eminem- found words powerful and fascinating.

Later on during the height of his fame he told reporters that he’d read dictionaries in his spare time to expand his vocabulary.

The interest in rap music began afetr his Uncle played Eminem a rap song, which hooked him.
After leaving school he worked odd jobs to prevent his Mother kicking him out and would join a friend at high school freestyle rap battles. Then, when he became hungry for more, he’d attend open mic contests, never missing one so that the black rapper community began to take him seriously.

However, the Radio stations refused to take him seriously and his first album flopped with harsh reviews.

In 1997 he decided to try his luck at the Rap Olympics in LA. Sleeping on the floor of the home he had just been evicted from (by breaking the window). Despite the fact he came in second place, his lyrics had been recorded and made their way to the hands of Dr Dre.

Eminem’s first album `Slim Shady’ sold over 3 million copies and won him a Grammy Award.

Moral of the story? Never give up on your dreams.  

If you are inspired by music and words, our Enterprising People partner: SABA, may be able to help you with funding and creative concepts to get your career off the ground.

SABA recieve funding through Building Better Opportunities, which is funded by the European Social Fund and National Lottery Community Fund