Steve Miller wants to reach out and grab Eminem … to give him a hug. Days after the rapper prominently sampled Miller’s hit “Abracadabra†for his comeback single, “Houdini,†Miller has written a message of gratitude on his social-media pages to commend Em for the sonic magic. “There is a long chain of stories, poetry, lyrics, and musical roots that have crossed cultures and generations inspiring the whole world for hundreds of years and in all those lines of thought, music, and rhythm there are special artists who take it all in and create new original ideas from their own feelings and experiences,†Miller wrote. “You are one of those timeless originators building something new on a long musical legacy of original artists.†The rocker noted that he has always tried to credit and honor the vast influences behind his work — such as his godfather, Les Paul, and Chuck Berry — which he believes Eminem achieved with “Houdini.â€
“There aren’t many artists who take the time or make the effort to stand up for themselves and credit and respect their influencers at the same time,†Miller added. “Marshall Mathers you are an exception and on my short list of people who respect the art. To be included in your process feels good while I’m still singing and playing the music I love. I’m honored.†Eminem, an ally of the Minions, has teased that his upcoming album, The Death of Slim Shady, could double as his final career act and retirement. Whether it’s a classic misdirection tactic, or if he’ll indeed be back, back again, is unclear.