The rap icon’s publishing company claims Meta used over 240 of his songs without permission on Facebook and Instagram — here’s what’s really happening behind the $109 million headline.
The internet exploded this week as reports confirmed that Eminem’s publishing company has filed a $109 million lawsuit against Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram.
According to court filings, Meta allegedly allowed over 243 Eminem tracks to be used across features such as Reels, Stories, and the Remix tool — all without securing proper licensing.
The lawsuit, filed in California federal court by Eight Mile Style, Eminem’s long-time publishing company, argues that Meta has been “profiting from unauthorized use of copyrighted material” while paying little or no royalties to the artist. This includes classic hits like Lose Yourself, The Real Slim Shady, and Love the Way You Lie, which have appeared in countless user-generated videos on Meta’s platforms.
Meta, on the other hand, has not publicly responded to the lawsuit yet. However, industry insiders say this could become one of the largest copyright battles in social-media history — not just for hip-hop, but for all creators relying on short-form content platforms.
⚖️ What’s at Stake
Music publishers have been clashing with tech giants for years, but this case could set a legal precedent for how social-media companies pay artists for background or remix usage in Reels and TikToks.
If Eminem’s team wins, Meta might face stricter content-licensing standards, meaning that independent creators could see new restrictions on what music they can use in their videos.
đź’¬ The Fan Reaction
Fans are split: some support Eminem for defending artist rights — especially in a time when viral videos drive billions in ad revenue. Others say the platforms have helped rappers stay relevant and that stricter rules could “kill creativity.”
Still, given Eminem’s reputation for precision and control over his catalog, it’s no surprise he’s taking a stand. The man who once battled the entire music industry is now taking on Silicon Valley.
🎶 A Familiar Fight
This isn’t Eminem’s first legal war. Back in 2009, he sued Apple and Universal over digital royalty splits and won a major settlement. Now, at 51, he’s again in the middle of a fight that could change how streaming and social media handle music forever.
Bottom Line:
Eminem’s $109 million lawsuit against Meta isn’t just about money — it’s about who controls the future of music online. If Slim Shady wins, every rapper and producer on the planet could benefit from fairer deals and bigger payouts.