The Source Magazine - Issue #102 (March 1998) - Eminem Unsigned Hype / Ma$e & The LOX

The Print Debut of Slim Shady.

This is a holy grail for 90s hip-hop archivists. Released in March 1998, Issue #102 of The Source features Bad Boy’s "Young Lions" (Ma$e and The LOX) on the cover, but its true historical significance is buried on page 22.

This issue contains the legendary "Unsigned Hype" column featuring Eminem. This short, half-page review of his Slim Shady EP demo tape was Marshall Mathers' very first major national print exposure, dropping right before Dr. Dre signed him to Aftermath. Beyond Eminem, this issue features Suge Knight speaking from prison, a Gang Starr feature, and a deep dive into hip-hop's racial dynamics. An essential, foundational piece of modern music history.

Condition Disclosure (Please Read):

This is a raw, vintage reading copy. The interior "Unsigned Hype" page featuring Eminem is clean, bright, and perfectly intact. However, the exterior exhibits significant wear. There is a noticeable tear and fold on the top edge of the front cover above the logo. The back cover shows surface scratching and general shelf wear. The magazine is 100% complete with no missing pages. It has not been professionally graded. Please review all photos carefully before purchasing.