American popular rapper Eminem has slammed Republican Presidential Candidate, Vivek Ramaswamy for using his song for campaigns.
In a letter dated August 23 but disclosed on Monday by BMI (a performing rights organization) informed the campaigners of Eminem’s objection to the use of his musical compositions.
BMI added that would consider any performance of Marshall B. Mathers, III (professionally known as Eminem) works by the Vivek 2024 campaign from this date forward to be a material breach of its license.
Ramaswamy’s campaign spokesperson said they will comply with the request
The 38-year-old rising politician was seen more than a week ago delivering a performance of Eminem song “Lose Yourself” at the Iowa State Fair.
Mr Ramaswamy is contending against Donald Trump for the Republican presidential ticket in 2024.
The usage of artiste’s songs without their permission during campaigns is not just peculiar to America alone but also globally.
For instance, in Nigeria, song writer and producer Timi Dakolo took to X (formerly twitter) calling out the All-Progressive Congress for using his song without his permission in 2022.
The party used his hit song ‘Great Nation’ at the APC presidential primaries.
In the UK, there are bodies like the PPL that license and protect the use of recorded music and allows artists to financially benefit from their creative work.
In Nigeria, the Nigeria film and videos censor board (NFVCB) and Nigeria Copyright Commission are among those saddled with the responsibility to protect the intellectual property of content creators and artists.
