Eminem Allowed To Sue Apple

Found on Techdirt on Tuesday, 18 May 2004
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In February, singer Eminem announced that he was suing Apple for having a commercial that showed a kid singing one of his songs. At the time, I wondered if compulsory licensing laws that handle the ability of a musician to "cover" a song would apply - but some claim that it doesn't apply to commercial offerings. Now, a judge has ruled that the case can proceed, and it could bring up some interesting legal arguments about fair use. Note that Apple didn't actually use Eminem's version of the song - just some kid singing it. That seems like a very fine line. Of course, what may complicate this story is the fact that Apple tried to buy the rights from Eminem, and still went ahead when he refused. It almost makes you wonder if the whole thing (including the lawsuit) is part of a publicity stunt.

Perhaps his sales go down and he needs to get some media attention again. However, I always find it very amusing to see the all evil and revolutionary gangsta rap boy suing kids for a copyright violation. Obviously, he thinks it's ok to fight the system, produce explicit lyrics and insult everybody; but dare to mess with his copyright and he will slam you with the power of the loved law and send the system after you.