Drum sheet – Eminem – The Monster

“The Monster” by Eminem, featuring Rihanna, was released in 2013 as the fourth single from Eminem’s album The Marshall Mathers LP 2. The song became a massive hit, topping charts worldwide and winning awards for its catchy blend of pop and rap, including a Grammy for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration in 2015. Eminem and Rihanna had collaborated before on the song “Love the Way You Lie,” but “The Monster” takes on a different tone, exploring themes of fame, mental health, and battling inner demons.

The songwriting and production process for “The Monster” was a collaboration between several artists and producers. It was initially written by Jon Bellion, Bebe Rexha, and Frequency, with Rexha’s original demo laying the groundwork for the song’s melody and lyrics. The instrumental features a haunting, minor-key piano riff, layered with a driving beat that blends pop and hip-hop elements. The beat, produced by Frequency, provides the foundation of the song, with a focus on creating a dynamic contrast between Eminem‘s verses and Rihanna‘s powerful chorus.

For fans of the drums, the rhythm in “The Monster” stands out due to its minimalist but impactful approach. The drum production in the song is tightly controlled, with crisp snare hits and a steady kick drum pattern that drive the track forward without overwhelming the vocals. The drums emphasize the shift between Eminem‘s introspective, rapid-fire verses and Rihanna’s soaring, emotionally charged chorus. The beats pick up intensity during the pre-chorus, where layers of percussion subtly build tension before releasing into the chorus. This rhythmic shift adds to the song’s emotional weight, with the drums helping to create a sense of catharsis as the narrative unfolds.

“The Monster” was performed live by Eminem and Rihanna during their 2014 The Monster Tour, which was a huge commercial success. The tour included stops at major stadiums and festivals across North America. The song became a fan favorite during these live shows, with its anthemic quality and pounding rhythm resonating with audiences. The live performances of “The Monster” were especially electrifying, as the combination of Rihanna’s vocals and the tight, controlled drum work gave the song a larger-than-life feel on stage, making it a powerful highlight in the setlist.