The mother of Marshall Mathers III, famously known as Emenim, has passed away at 69.
Although no cause was given for Debbie Nelson’s death, she was believed to have been suffering from lung cancer.
Debbie Nelson
Born in 1955 on a Kansas military base, Nelson’s connection with Eminem was often publicized through his music.
The mother-and-son relationship was fraught and was often publicized in Emenim’s song lyrics.
Tracks like “Cleaning Out My Closet” painted a raw and unflinching picture of their strained bond, with lyrics detailing alleged prescription of drug use and emotional manipulation.
Nelson Recalled Her Relationship With Son
Nelson didn’t shy away from addressing their history.
In her 2008 memoir, My Son Marshall, My Son Eminem, she shared her perspective on their complex relationship.
She recalled that her son had forgotten the good times they had when he was a child.
The relationship got better when Nelson congratulated Emenim on achieving the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.