Eminem recently introduced Barack Obama at a Kamala Harris rally in Detroit, just two weeks before the 2024 presidential election.
The rapper’s support for both Obama and Harris has been well-documented throughout their political journeys.
On October 22, 2024, Eminem welcomed Obama to the stage, creating an electrifying atmosphere as they rallied for Harris. Both figures shared a moment of unity in Michigan, encouraging voters ahead of Election Day.
After Eminem’s introduction, Obama grabbed the microphone and referenced Eminem’s iconic song “Lose Yourself.” He humorously confessed, “I’ve done many rallies, but following Eminem makes me nervous.” He then recited lines from the song, prompting cheers from the crowd. “My palms are sweaty, knees weak, arms are heavy,” he began, connecting instantly with the audience.
The crowd erupted as Obama continued, rapping, “I’m nervous but on the surface I look calm and ready.” His playful homage to Eminem highlighted the strong bond between music and political engagement. He concluded by expressing his admiration, saying, “I love me some Eminem,” which sent the audience into further applause.
Before Obama took the stage, Eminem shared his reasons for supporting Harris. He emphasized the significance of Detroit and Michigan in the upcoming election. “The spotlight is on us now,” he declared, urging everyone to exercise their right to vote. His passion for civic engagement was clear as he spoke about the importance of using one’s voice.
Eminem also addressed the need for open expression in America. “People shouldn’t fear expressing their opinions,” he stated. He underscored that no one should worry about potential backlash for speaking out. His support for Harris came from a belief in her vision for a future that protects individual freedoms.
The rapper has a history of backing Democratic candidates. He notably endorsed Obama during his presidency and supported the Biden-Harris ticket in 2020. The day before the last election, Eminem released a campaign ad featuring “Lose Yourself,” with a caption urging people to vote.
Moreover, Eminem has been vocal in his criticism of Donald Trump, Harris’s opponent. In 2017, he delivered a fierce freestyle rap at the BET Awards, targeting Trump directly. He called the then-president out for his comments regarding a White nationalist rally in Charlottesville, demonstrating his commitment to social justice through music.
In his song “The Storm,” Eminem referred to Trump in derogatory terms and condemned his actions. Later that year, he released “Framed,” which included a provocative line about dropping coffee on Trump. These lyrics exemplified Eminem’s stance against the former president.
In 2018, after releasing “Framed,” Eminem claimed the Secret Service visited him due to the song’s content. He rapped about this encounter in “The Ringer,” referencing “Agent Orange,” a nickname for Trump. The Secret Service described Eminem’s behavior as “inappropriate,” reflecting the intense scrutiny he faced for his outspoken views.
Throughout his career, Eminem has used his platform to voice political opinions, making him a significant figure in contemporary discussions. His rally with Obama and Harris not only highlighted their support for each other but also served as a reminder of the importance of political engagement.
As the election approaches, both Obama and Eminem inspire voters to make their voices heard. Their collaboration exemplifies how art and politics intertwine, galvanizing people to participate in democracy. With high-profile figures advocating for change, the energy in Detroit showcased a shared commitment to a brighter future. The rally not only motivated supporters but also reaffirmed the power of music in mobilizing civic action.