Eminem lawsuit against Apple set to begin trial
updated 05:30 pm EDT, Tue September 22, 2009
Eight Mile Style claims unauthorized iTunes sales
Eminem's lawsuit against Apple and Aftermath Records, filed by the rapper's publisher Eight Mile Style, is set to begin trial on Thursday. Each party has yet to agree on a settlement since the proceedings were initiated in 2007. The dispute involves sales of Eminem tracks through iTunes, content which Eight Mile Style claims was not authorized for online distribution.
Although Aftermath Records owns the rights relating to CD sales, Eminem's publisher claims the contract did not include downloads. Attorneys for Apple and Aftermath argue that the licenses apply to all forms of media, including iTunes sales.
Apple had been involved in other disputes with Eight Mile Style involving Eminem's music. The publisher claimed that Apple used an older song, "Lose Yourself," in an iPod commercial without first obtaining permission. The conflict was handled out of court with a settlement for an undisclosed sum.
Attorneys for the latest suit are scheduled to meet on Wednesday for a settlement hearing. If both sides still cannot come to agreement in the presence of US Magistrate Judge Virginia Morgan, a formal trial will begin on Thursday.
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Oct 1999
Further proof
That this young man was dropped on his head. According to the Marketplace article this evening, he's looking for a percentage of iPod sales. Somebody already got his share of the sales - either him or Aftermath - so it's between him and Aftermath. Next?