Eminem put pressure on Detroit Diamond to not let him or their city down

Notorious for not making public appearances, Eminem was drawn to the set of Rhythm + Flow because of his love for battle rap. The rap legend was a guest judge on episode 5 of season 2, titled “Your Favorite Rapper’s Favorite Rapper.” He was accompanied by two other Detroit legends, Royce da 5’9” and Denaun Porter.

That particular episode was unlike others for many reasons. For Detroit Diamond, a participant on the show, it was a chance to showcase her talent in front of a rapper she grew up idolizing while representing the Detroit hip-hop scene at the renowned Saint Andrew’s Hall.

During a recent conversation on SWAY’S UNIVERSE, Diamond talked about her brief conversation with Em and how he put her on the spot. She said, “Right before the battle, he literally walked up and whispered in my ear and said, ‘You the only one here from Detroit, don’t let me down.’”

If the pressure of being in her city and standing on one of the biggest stages for a battle rapper wasn’t enough, the “Rap God” added some extra responsibilities to her shoulders. It’s almost like Eminem knew what he was doing, because his message gave Diamond extra motivation to come up with her A-Game.

She battled another talented rapper, Dono, and won the round. After her loss, Eminem comforted Dono by praising her talent and assuring her that if she keeps going at this pace, she will outlast her competition.

Although Diamond didn’t get an opportunity to talk to Em after that, she is left with a cool story to tell until they meet again. Eminem’s appearance on the show also showcased his love for the art of battle rap.

Since rap battles at Saint Andrew’s Hall marked the start of Em's legendary career, he's always been connected to his roots and holds battle rappers in high regard.