In the world of music beefs, Eminem is known for his no-holds-barred disses — but in 2005, when he set his lyrical sights on Michael Jackson, the Rap God may have underestimated who he was dealing with.
It all started when Eminem released the controversial track “Just Lose It,” in which he made fun of Michael Jackson’s legal troubles, plastic surgeries, and media image. The video — which included scenes of a Jackson look-alike getting his hair set on fire and sitting on a toilet — sparked massive backlash. Michael, hurt by the disrespect, said very little publicly.
But behind the scenes? MJ was making power moves.
Michael Jackson’s Billionaire-Level Clapback
Instead of going bar for bar with Eminem, Michael Jackson took the businessman route. In a legendary flex of power, he quietly acquired the publishing rights to Eminem’s back catalogue by purchasing Famous Music LLC from Viacom in 2007.
That meant every time Eminem’s songs from that catalogue played — MJ got paid.
“He dissed the King, and the King bought the throne.”
Michael didn’t diss back. He didn’t release a track. He let the money and silence speak louder than words. While Em was performing, MJ was collecting royalties. A move so savage, so elegant — it instantly went down in music industry lore.
A Lesson in Power
The incident became a cautionary tale for anyone who underestimates the quiet giants of the industry. Eminem may have won the battle in the media moment, but Michael won the war with ownership.
It was a mic drop moment in business strategy. No beef, no diss track, just chess over checkers.
Because if there’s one thing Michael Jackson taught everyone — it’s that real bosses move in silence… and own the catalog.