05/06/2024
Always respect the art.
Steve Miller of the iconic band "Steve Miller Band" who were the performers of "Abracadabra" which was sampled for the single "Houdini", writes a letter to Eminem on Twitter
"Hello EM,
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 assimilate it all and create new original ideas from Your own feelings and experiences. You're one of those timeless creators building something new on a long musical legacy of original artists.
To me it's Les Paul, T-Bone Walker, Bill Doggett, Johnny Guitar Watson, Howlin' Wolf, Jimmy Reed, The Beatles, Chuck Berry, W***y Dixon, Leiber & Stoller, Cannonball Adderley, John Coltrane and Miles Davis.
I have always tried to give credit, honor and respect to the people who have most influenced my life, as well as acknowledge their copyright and share knowledge of their work through my own work.
I didn't know it would be like this when I was a kid trying to make a living playing music and recording records, I just knew I had to respect the art that preceded me and also fight for it among all the scoundrels, thieves and impostors.
There aren't many artists who take the time or make the effort to defend themselves and at the same time recognize and respect their influencers. Marshall Mathers you are an exception and you are on my short list of people who respect art.
Being included in your process makes me feel good as I continue to sing and play the music I love. I feel honored.
Thank you very much,
Steve Miller"
