In an exclusive interview, Skilla Baby gave a shout-out to Eminem and shared how his Detroit roots and mentorship from 50 Cent are shaping his journey in hip hop.
Skilla Baby is rapidly becoming one of the most exciting new voices in hip hop. The Detroit-born rapper recently sat down with AllHipHop.com to reflect on his journey, from growing up in the Motor City to collaborating with industry legends and crafting a career built on authenticity.
When talking about Detroit’s impact on his artistry, Skilla Baby praised the city’s gritty culture and its legacy of talent, paying special attention to one legend:
Detroit is gritty but small. Everyone either wants to rap, hoop, or play sports. I slept on Eminem for a while, but man, he’s one of the greatest. Detroit’s always had talent — Motown, Aretha Franklin, Anita Baker, Big Sean, and so many more. People overlook us, but we’re coming strong now. Detroit versus everybody!
This remark echoes the comment Skilla made earlier in a conversation with HipHopDX:
[Eminem]’s big where we’re from. Nobody thinks we ain’t taking nothing from him. We just haven’t seen him. “8 Mile” was big for us. And “Marshall Mathers LP”, that shit was hard for us too. I ain’t saying I ain’t listening to his music, I banged his music all the time. It’s a big cultural impact.
Skilla also reflected on his connection with 50 Cent, crediting the rap mogul for playing a key role in his development:
My manager Roccett, who’s BMF, connected us. Fifty has been a huge mentor — advice, opportunities — he really pushes me in the right direction. He does a lot behind the scenes for people, and he doesn’t even brag about it. I appreciate that.
From BET nominations to balancing his growing success with giving back to his community, Skilla Baby is proving that his rise is more than just talent — it’s about hard work, mentorship, and staying true to his Detroit roots.
And for those who say that young rappers do not listen to Eminem, well, once again – you are wrong.
