The inspiration for "Stan" came from Eminem's real-life experiences with obsessive fans. In 1999, he received a letter from a fan named Stan Mitchell who expressed his admiration for Eminem's music but also showed signs of mental instability. Mitchell's letter included violent and disturbing lyrics, and he threatened to commit suicide if Eminem did not respond. Eminem was so disturbed by the letter that he wrote "Stan" as a way of expressing his concern for Mitchell and other fans like him.
The song is told from the perspective of Stan, who begins by writing letters to Eminem expressing his admiration for his music. Stan's letters become increasingly more obsessive and violent, and he begins to make threats against Eminem and his family. Eminem responds to Stan's letters, trying to reason with him and get him to seek help, but Stan is too far gone. In the end, Stan kills his girlfriend and himself, leaving Eminem devastated.
"Stan" was a critical and commercial success, reaching number one in several countries and becoming one of Eminem's most popular songs. The song was praised for its powerful storytelling and its exploration of mental illness and obsession. "Stan" also won several awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group.
The song's music video, directed by Dr. Dre, is also considered a masterpiece. The video follows the story of the song, with Eminem playing the role of Stan and Dido appearing as herself. The video is interspersed with scenes of Eminem performing the song in a concert, and it ends with a shot of Eminem standing alone in a dark room, holding a letter from Stan.
"Stan" has had a lasting impact on popular culture. The song's title has become a synonym for an obsessive fan, and the song has been parodied and referenced in numerous works of popular culture. "Stan" is also considered one of the greatest rap songs of all time, and it continues to be celebrated for its powerful storytelling and its exploration of mental illness and obsession.