Alec Benjamin Pays Tribute to Eminem with a Powerful Cover of “Stan”
Pop singer Alec Benjamin recently took on one of rap’s most emotional tracks—Eminem’s “Stan”—on the latest episode of Spotify’s Under Cover podcast. The song, known for its dark storytelling and haunting sample of Dido’s “Thank You,” left a lasting impression on Benjamin when he first heard it.
A Lifelong Eminem Fan
Benjamin’s love for Eminem started at just eight years old, when he discovered The Eminem Show CD. From that moment, he became a devoted fan. “Eminem was the first artist where I felt like I had to make an effort to listen to his music,” he shared.
When he first heard Stan, it struck him on a deep level. “It gave me this visceral feeling in my gut,” he explained. The song’s tragic storyline and masterful storytelling kept him hooked. “The way the ending ties everything together—it’s genius.”
A Different Take on “Stan”
Benjamin’s version of Stan was inspired by a live performance Eminem once did, which had a more stripped-down feel. As an acoustic artist, he took a risk covering such an intense rap song, admitting: “I never rap—I’m not a rapper, and I don’t pretend to be.”
However, he had one advantage over traditional rappers: his ability to sing the Dido part, which is a crucial element of the song’s emotional depth.
A Unique and Emotional Tribute
While Stan is one of Eminem’s heaviest tracks, Alec Benjamin’s acoustic take offers a fresh, heartfelt interpretation. His version showcases the song’s powerful storytelling while adding his own signature style, proving that great music transcends genres.
