A clash has erupted between rapper Eminem and presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy after Ramaswamy used Eminem’s song “Lose Yourself” without permission at an event. Eminem’s team was quick to send a cease-and-desist letter to Ramaswamy’s campaign, demanding that they stop using his music.
Eminem’s music is managed by BMI, and they told Ramaswamy’s campaign that Slim Shady himself objected to the use of his songs in their events. The letter made it clear that all of Eminem’s songs were to be removed from the campaign’s music list immediately.
The warning letter stated that if Ramaswamy’s campaign continued to use Marshall Mathers’ music, it would be considered a serious violation of their agreement. BMI, on behalf of Eminem, would then take necessary actions to protect their rights.
This legal move came shortly after Ramaswamy performed “Lose Yourself” at the Iowa State Fair. He did this in response to a question about his favorite entrance song asked by Gov. Kim Reynolds. However, Eminem’s team wasn’t pleased with this unapproved use of his music.
A representative from Ramaswamy’s campaign commented that they would respect the request and refrain from using Eminem’s music in the future. They humorously acknowledged that they would leave the rapping to the real Slim Shady, referencing Eminem’s nickname.
Ramaswamy has been a long-time fan, even performing his own rap songs when he was a student at Harvard University. He related to Mathers’ story of overcoming obstacles and being underestimated. Ramaswamy, who comes from a successful immigrant family, said he found common ground in the theme of being an underdog and defying expectations.
As the legal battle unfolds, it has raised questions with many on social media about the use of music in political campaigns and the importance of obtaining proper permissions. The dispute between Eminem’s team and Ramaswamy’s campaign could potentially lead to further legal actions if not resolved.
