 The song received generally positive reviews from music critics who highlighted it as a stand @-@ out track from Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel . Many reviewers complimented its clever lyrics and strong beat , while others criticized the song 's usage of auto @-@ tune on Carey 's vocals . At the time of the song 's release , " Obsessed " was the center of controversy , as critics and the media suggested Carey was aiming it at American rapper Eminem , who had negatively referenced her several times in songs . Eminem released a song called " The Warning " in response . 
