Eminem and Rihanna’s hit “The Monster” has officially surpassed 1 billion views on YouTube. The milestone marks Eminem’s ninth video to reach this level and his eighth as a lead artist.
A Powerful Collaboration
“The Monster” was released in 2013 as part of “The Marshall Mathers LP 2”. It is the fourth collaboration between Eminem and Rihanna, following “Love the Way You Lie”, its Part II, and “Numb. Their chemistry once again proved unstoppable, blending Eminem’s brutal introspection with Rihanna’s heart-wrenching vocals.
Chart Success and Records
When the single debuted, it made an immediate impact. On November 6, 2013, it entered the Billboard Hot 100 at No.3 – one of Eminem’s strongest song debuts. Soon after, it rose to the top spot, giving him another No.1 hit in the US.
Meanwhile, “The Monster” opened at number one on the US Digital Songs chart, selling 373,000 copies in its first week. At the same time, it debuted atop both the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and Rap Songs charts. It was Eminem’s first R&B/Hip-Hop chart-topper and his sixth No. 1 on the Rap list.
Across the Atlantic, the single debuted at No.1 in the UK, selling 74,674 copies in just two days. It became Eminem’s first UK No. 1 as a lead artist since “Like Toy Soldiers” in 2005.
A Standout Music Video
Released on December 16, 2013, the video for “The Monster” was directed by Rich Lee, who also directed “Rap God” and “Not Afraid”. In the clip, Rihanna appears as Eminem’s therapist, guiding him through scenes from his past videos like “Lose Yourself”, “Mockingbird”, and “The Way I Am”.
The concept hit the bullseye. The video earned three MTV Video Music Award nominations in 2014 (for Best Male Video, Best Collaboration, and Best Direction), and remains one of Eminem’s most viewed visuals to date.
Lasting Legacy
Over a decade later, “The Monster” continues to get views and attention. Its billion-view milestone comes from over 200,000 daily views across the world. Still relevant, still important, still loved.
