At 3:05 PM on Monday, June 16, 2025, a new interview has set the hip-hop world abuzz with a glowing endorsement from Denaun Porter, better known as Mr. Porter or Kon Artis, who has hailed Eminem as the most talented writer he has ever encountered. The revelation, shared during a recent appearance on Intellectually Petty Radio, offers a rare glimpse into the creative synergy between the two Detroit natives, whose collaboration spans over two decades. This praise, coming from a Grammy-winning producer and a key figure in Eminem’s early career, has sparked widespread admiration among fans and reignited discussions about Eminem’s lyrical prowess, cementing his legacy as a wordsmith extraordinaire amidst his ongoing influence in the music industry.

The interview, conducted earlier this week and released on June 15, featured Denaun reflecting on his long-standing friendship and professional partnership with Eminem, born Marshall Mathers. Denaun, a pivotal member of the now-disbanded D12 group and a producer for artists like 50 Cent and Snoop Dogg, described Eminem’s writing process with awe. “This man writes 24/7,” he said, emphasizing Eminem’s relentless dedication. “I’ve never seen an artist write as much as him. The way he takes the English language and brutalizes it—he utilizes it, but he’s brutal.” The comment highlights Eminem’s ability to manipulate language with precision and intensity, a skill Denaun first witnessed during their early days together, shaping tracks like “Infinite” and the transformative Slim Shady EP.

Denaun’s relationship with Eminem traces back to the mid-1990s in Detroit, where both honed their craft amid the city’s vibrant hip-hop scene. As a novice producer, Denaun worked on Eminem’s debut album Infinite (1996), a project that, though commercially modest, laid the foundation for Eminem’s rise. He recalled their initial sessions, noting, “When I met him, he had a song called ‘Backstabber.’ I told him to slow it down, and we turned it into ‘Infinite.’ Then we slowed it more, and it became Slim Shady.” This evolution, guided by Denaun’s beats and Eminem’s lyrical evolution, marked the birth of the provocative persona that would dominate rap. Denaun’s role extended beyond production—he became Eminem’s hype man after the tragic 2006 death of D12 member Proof, a testament to their enduring bond.

The timing of this interview aligns with Eminem’s recent activities, adding weight to Denaun’s praise. Just days ago, on June 14, Eminem made headlines for promoting waitress Mia to manager at his Mom’s Spaghetti restaurant after she was fired for helping him, a gesture that showcased his compassionate side. His ongoing projects, including the upcoming basketball tournament “Slim’s Hoops for Hope” on June 21-22 to benefit the Detroit Children’s Home, further illustrate his multifaceted influence. Denaun’s comments come as Eminem, now 52, continues to shape his legacy with the 2024 album The Death of Slim Shady, blending introspection with his signature wordplay, reinforcing the talent Denaun celebrates.

Denaun’s endorsement isn’t limited to Eminem. He also praised Royce da 5’9” as the most gifted rapper he’s worked with, marveling at Royce’s ability to craft verses spontaneously. “I don’t even understand how he says the shit he says, and he doesn’t have the lines written down,” Denaun noted, highlighting the natural flow that defines Royce’s style. Additionally, he lauded Flint’s Latonya “Tone Treazure” Givens, comparing her effortless vocals to Nina Simone, showcasing his broad appreciation for musical talent. Yet, it’s Eminem’s writing that stands out, with Denaun recalling their early days working fast-food jobs together, a shared grind that fueled their creative partnership.

The hip-hop community has reacted with enthusiasm. Posts found on X reflect a surge of pride, with fans echoing Denaun’s sentiments: “Em’s pen game is unmatched—Denaun knows!” and “24/7 writing? That’s the Slim Shady work ethic!” The interview has also prompted discussions about Eminem’s influence, with some crediting Denaun’s production for amplifying his lyrical genius, as seen in tracks like “Just Don’t Give a Fuck” and “P.I.M.P.” Others note the irony of Eminem’s early struggles—fired from Gilbert’s Lodge in 1997—mirroring the resilience he now inspires, a theme Denaun touched on by recalling their modest beginnings.

Eminem’s writing style, as Denaun describes, is a blend of brutality and brilliance. His ability to “brutalize” the English language involves intricate rhyme schemes, multisyllabic patterns, and a knack for turning personal pain into universal anthems, as seen in “Stan” and “Lose Yourself.” Denaun’s observation of Eminem’s constant writing aligns with reports of him scribbling lyrics during downtime, a habit from his pre-fame days when he’d study the dictionary for rhymes. This dedication, paired with Denaun’s early beats, helped shape Eminem’s ascent, from Infinite’s underground roots to the global dominance of The Marshall Mathers LP.

The interview also sheds light on their personal bond. Denaun’s Instagram tribute last month for Infinite’s anniversary—“24 years ago today I began a journey with one of the first artists I believed in”—underscores a friendship built on mutual respect. Eminem reciprocated with a birthday shoutout to Denaun on December 7, 2024, calling him “one of my most talented and long-time friends.” This camaraderie, forged in Detroit’s gritty studios, contrasts with Eminem’s public feuds, like his 2023 clash with Snoop Dogg, showing Denaun as a steady ally amidst the storm.

Skepticism lingers, however. Some question whether Denaun’s praise is biased, given their decades-long partnership, or if it’s a strategic nod to boost Eminem’s latest ventures, like the orphanage tournament. The lack of specific examples in the interview fuels this, though Denaun’s track record—producing for 50 Cent, Method Man, and others—lends credibility. Others see it as a genuine reflection, noting Eminem’s consistent output, from 2024’s The Death of Slim Shady to his 2021 Super Bowl performance, where Denaun hyped the stage.

The broader impact is unfolding. Denaun’s words have reignited interest in Eminem’s catalog, with streams of Infinite spiking 20% on Spotify by June 16, per unofficial data. The interview coincides with Eminem’s quieter 2025 phase—less political noise post-Trump’s DOGE exit—focusing on music and charity, like Mia’s promotion. For Denaun, it’s a chance to shine as a producer, with his recent EP Stuff In My Backpack gaining attention. The praise also elevates Detroit’s hip-hop legacy, with fans calling for a D12 reunion, a prospect Denaun left open in past comments.

As of 3:05 PM today, June 16, 2025, the hip-hop world celebrates this endorsement. Denaun’s declaration of Eminem as the most talented writer he’s seen underscores a partnership that shaped rap history, from Infinite to today. The internet buzzes with admiration and analysis, proving that in Detroit’s creative crucible, a friend’s word can amplify a legend’s legacy—leaving fans inspired by the talent that never stops.