Ex-Eminem employee charged with leaking rapper’s unreleased music

A former employee of Grammy-winning rapper Eminem has been charged in connection with leaking the rapper’s unreleased music online. US Attorney Julie Beck stated that Joseph Strange, who worked for the artiste from 2007 to 2021, faces serious charges, including criminal infringement of copyright and interstate transportation of stolen goods.

The charges stem from an investigation that began in January. An employee at Eminem’s studio in Ferndale, Michigan, discovered unreleased music by the rapper being sold on various websites.

The FBI was contacted after the employee recognised the music as being taken directly from a hard drive at the studio.

The tracks, which the rapper was still working on, were listed for sale, leading to an investigation by law enforcement agencies. The FBI’s efforts to track down those who had purchased the leaked music eventually led them to Joseph Strange, who was identified as the seller of the tracks.

If convicted of criminal infringement of a copyright, Strange could face up to five years in prison, along with a fine of up to

$ 250,000. Additionally, he could face up to 10 years in prison for the charge of interstate transportation of stolen goods.

Eminem, who released new music last year, including the album The Death Of Slim Shady (Coup De Grace), continues to make waves in the music industry. It received a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album at the 2025 ceremony, and his single Houdini was nominated for both Best Rap Performance and Best Music Video.