The 2002 clash between Eminem and Benzino wasn’t just a beef—it was a declaration of lyrical supremacy. Benzino, co-head of The Source, launched attacks on Eminem’s credibility, calling him “2003 Vanilla Ice” and even hinting at threatening his daughter Hailie.
Eminem responded with precision. He released “The Sauce” and then hit back HARD with “Nail in the Coffin”—a scathing, unrelenting diss track targeting Benzino’s rap career, age, and questionable credibility at The Source
“Nail in the Coffin” wasn’t just lyrical sparring—it was a verbal execution that left Benzino’s reputation shattered. Eminem exposed him as a paper rapper and unearthed the hypocrisy behind his magazine’s coverage. This track was later included in the Invasion!! mixtape and is still cited as one of the most savage diss tracks of the 2000s.
For fans, this wasn’t rap history—it was rap justice. Eminem didn’t merely defend himself—he dismantled an authority figure and reminded the world why he’s the undisputed king of lyrical warfare.