Hip-hop legend The D.O.C. recently reflected on the first time he heard Eminem, and his reaction was unforgettable. During his appearance on the All The Smoke podcast, the West Coast pioneer shared how he was introduced to Em through Dr. Dre—at a time when their relationship was strained.
The Moment The D.O.C. Heard Eminem
The D.O.C. explained that while he and Dre had taken a break from working together, Dre reached out for help while making 2001.
“Dre called and said, ‘I need your help.’ It had been three or four years, so I was past my bullshit. When Dre calls, I usually just jump on the bird (plane).”
That’s when Dre played Eminem’s song “Just Don’t Give A F*”**, and The D.O.C. was blown away.
“I was like, ‘Wow, this motherf***er’s off the chain!’ He reminded me of that early music we were making—his subject matter was so wild.”
When Dre showed him Eminem’s photo, The D.O.C. was shocked to learn the rapper was white.
“He brought out an 8×10 picture. I said, ‘Who is this white boy?!’ Dre said, ‘That’s him.’ I was like, ‘Wow.’”
Despite the surprise, The D.O.C. had no doubts about Em’s talent.
“I’m a purist. I don’t care if you’re red, black, green, or purple—if you’re dope, you’re dope. And Eminem is one of the greats.”
The D.O.C. on Dr. Dre’s Love & Loyalty
The D.O.C. also opened up about Dr. Dre’s emotional verse on “What’s the Difference”, where he raps: “I love you, Doc.”
At the time, he admitted he wasn’t fully able to process it, but now he knows how deeply Dre meant those words.
“I know Dre loves me. He’s my big brother. He’s watched me fall and helped me get back up—again and again. So whenever he calls, I’m gonna go.”
A Legendary Moment in Hip-Hop
This story highlights the raw energy of hip-hop and the deep bonds between its legends. Eminem’s talent was undeniable from the start, and The D.O.C.’s reaction proves that greatness transcends all boundaries.
