Eminem’s publishing company, Eight Mile Style , has launched a landmark R2 billion ($108 million) lawsuit against Meta , alleging the tech giant unlawfully used 243 of the rapper’s songs on its platforms, including Facebook and Instagram, without licensing agreements. The legal action, filed in a U.S. federal court, claims Meta “systematically infringed” copyright protections by allowing users to post music-backed content without compensating rights holders, a move that could set a precedent in ongoing battles between artists and tech firms over digital content monetization.
The lawsuit highlights Meta’s alleged failure to secure proper licensing for songs spanning Eminem’s catalog, from classics like Lose Yourself to recent releases. Eight Mile Style argues that Meta’s policies enabled widespread unauthorized use of the tracks, depriving the rapper’s estate of royalties and creative control. “This isn’t just about money—it’s about respect for intellectual property,” said a spokesperson for the publishing company.
Meta has yet to issue a formal response, though the company has historically defended similar cases by asserting that user-generated content falls under “fair use” provisions. However, critics argue that platforms profit from such content through advertising revenue, making fair use claims untenable. A Pretoria-based entertainment lawyer noted, “When corporations benefit financially from copyrighted work, they must negotiate fair compensation. This case could redefine how social media handles music licensing”.
Public reaction has been divided. Fans and industry peers have rallied behind Eminem, with some calling for stricter enforcement of artist rights on digital platforms. Conversely, social media users defended Meta, arguing that user creativity should not be stifled by corporate gatekeeping. “Artists deserve payment, but should we punish everyday creators?” asked a Johannesburg content creator.
The lawsuit follows a broader trend of musicians challenging tech giants over unlicensed music use, including Taylor Swift’s team and the estates of Bob Marley and Prince. If successful, the case could force Meta to overhaul its content policies, potentially requiring direct licensing deals with artists or implementing stricter copyright filters—a shift that would ripple across the global entertainment industry.
As legal proceedings begin, the case underscores the growing tension between digital innovation and artistic ownership, testing whether platforms can balance user freedom with creator compensation in an era where virality often eclipses legality.
