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DOMINIC GWINN / Contributor via Getty Images and DOMINIC GWINN / Contributor via Getty Images
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Barack Obama and Eminem
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As a key battleground state, Michigan is capturing significant attention leading up to the U.S. presidential election. On the evening of Tuesday (Oct. 22), Vice President Kamala Harris gathered a star-studded lineup at her Detroit rally. Eminem ignited the audience’s enthusiasm with a strong call to action to vote, which was followed by a compelling address from former President Barack Obama.
“I noted a few points I wished to express,” the Encore rapper began. “As many of you are aware, Detroit and my native state of Michigan hold a special place in my heart. With this election approaching, the eyes of the nation are upon us, and it is vital to make your voices heard. So, I urge everyone to go out and cast your vote, please.”
Eminem went on to highlight that “individuals should not hesitate to voice their thoughts,” underscoring the crucial need to safeguard free expression. He remarked, “Vice President Harris envisions a nation where this liberty, along with others, will be preserved and honored.” Check out the complete clip below.
A short while later, Obama took the microphone, humorously sharing, “I’m feeling a bit of pressure after Eminem.” He then playfully adapted the lyrics from the 2002 hit “Lose Yourself”: “Palms sweaty, knees weak, arms are heavy/ Vomit on my sweater already, mom’s spaghetti/ I’m anxious, but outwardly, I’m composed.”
As the crowd erupted in cheers, the former president quipped, “I thought Eminem was going to perform, and I was ready to jump in.” Additionally, Obama took a few lighthearted shots at Republican nominee Donald Trump, who had visited Detroit just the previous Friday (Oct. 18).
On the music front, Eminem unveiled The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce) this past July. The album consists of 19 tracks featuring highlights such as “Renaissance,” “Tobey” with guest appearances from Big Sean and BabyTron, as well as “Houdini,” in which he alluded to the shooting incident involving Megan Thee Stallion in 2020. The album also includes collaborations with artists like JID, Jelly Roll, and Skylar Grey.