Eminem: Ground Zero for Grammys 2001

February 20 -- As the Grammy Awards approach, attention usually falls on the artist with the most nominations; this year, that honor is shared by Dr. Dre and Destiny's Child's Beyoncé Knowles (five apiece), but without a question, the spotlight is falling squarely on Eminem.

The 28-year-old rapper is up for four awards — but all eyes are on the Album of the Year category. If The Marshall Mathers LP takes that prize — in the general category rather than a rap category — the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences will be slammed as irresponsibly rewarding work that is hateful; should the album be denied the big prize, others will blast NARAS for being conservative.

The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against has been leading the criticism of Eminem and his album. The group is heading a coalition that is staging a Rally Against Hate, to be held outside of the awards show tomorrow at Staples Center.

Few artists have publicly criticized Eminem (perhaps fearing to be the subject of his next song?), though numerous artists have spoken out in his defense.

Singers Sheryl Crow and Toni Braxton both professed their appreciation of the rapper's music after his nominations were announced in January. "Whether you like the content or not, it's a well-made record, and it's interesting-sounding and very infectious," Crow said.

Grammy-winning songwriter Diane Warren said, "Personally, I don't think it's really cool to talk about slicing people up and things like that." Nevertheless, she said she loved the album and considered Eminem "a talented guy."

In Sunday's edition of the Los Angeles Times, several Grammy winners published letters of support for Eminem.

John — whose support of Eminem and his plan to sing a duet with him at the ceremony drew heavy criticism from GLAAD — wrote, "As a gay artist, I'm asked by a lot of people, 'But what about the content of Eminem's music?' I think there is far more humor on the album than people think. It appeals to my English black sense of humor. When I put the album on the first time, I was in hysterics from laughing."