Eminem is trending after one of the most unexpected music collaborations of the year was confirmed.
The Detroit rapper will appear on “7 Sins,” a new track from Kid Rock’s upcoming Christian music album “Halfway to Jesus.”
Kid Rock revealed the album’s track list this week, but Eminem’s name immediately caused confusion among fans. Some questioned whether the collaboration was genuine.
It is.
Complex reports that a representative from Eminem’s camp confirmed that the rapper officially appears on the song.
The collaboration has attracted particular attention because Eminem and Kid Rock have publicly expressed sharply different political views over the years.
Kid Rock addressed those differences directly while explaining why Eminem appears on the project. He said the two remain friends despite disagreeing politically and on other issues, adding that they hope their friendship can serve as an example for people who have allowed political disagreements to damage personal relationships.
The announcement has produced mixed reactions online. Some Eminem fans expressed disappointment, while others defended the idea that artists can collaborate despite political disagreements.
This is also not the first time the two Michigan artists have worked together.
Eminem appeared on Kid Rock’s 1998 track “Fuck Off,” from the hugely successful album “Devil Without a Cause.” Years later, Kid Rock appeared in the music video for Eminem’s 2013 single “Berzerk.”
The new album represents a significant musical shift for Kid Rock.
“Halfway to Jesus” contains 17 tracks and moves heavily into Christian themes. The first single, “James 1:17 (Jesus Is King),” has already been released, while the album is scheduled for October 17.
Other guests include Gary LeVox of Rascal Flatts and country singer Jimmie Allen, who appear on the title track.
But it is Eminem’s appearance that has generated the biggest reaction.
The full “7 Sins” collaboration has not yet been released, meaning fans still do not know exactly what Eminem will say on the track or how his verse will fit into Kid Rock’s faith focused project.
For now, the surprise announcement alone has been enough to send searches for Eminem climbing and turn an unexpected reunion between two longtime Detroit musicians into one of the most talked about music stories of the moment.
