A Michigan Ford dealership’s attempt to use “Lose Yourself” in a truck ad has landed them in court — but Eminem isn’t the one suing.
LaFontaine Ford St. Clair dealership in Michigan is learning that using Eminem’s music without permission is a bad idea, reports TMZ. It is being sued by Eight Mile Style, the publisher that controls Em’s early catalogue, for using “Lose Yourself” in an ad promoting a special-edition Detroit Lions Ford F-150.
The ad, which started running last autumn, did not just feature the iconic track — it also played off its lyrics, telling customers, “You only get one shot to own a Special Edition Detroit Lions F-150”. But Eight Mile Style is not letting it slide, arguing that “Lose Yourself” is a highly valuable song that has fetched millions in licensing deals, like Chrysler’s famous 2011 Super Bowl ad.
This isn’t the first time Eight Mile Style has made headlines. The same company previously accused Spotify of “deceptive” actions, claiming the platform falsely licensed 243 of Eminem’s songs. However, they lost that case.
Now, the publishing company wants the dealership to pull the ad and is seeking financial damages. As of now, LaFontaine Ford St. Clair has not made any public comments on the lawsuit, but they might want to brace themselves for a legal showdown.
