Eminem is standing by his decision to make music with Kid Rock, despite their different political views. The Detroit rappers have known each other for decades. Their new collaboration has surprised some Eminem fans because Rock supports Donald Trump. Eminem says their friendship matters more than politics.
Eminem says their friendship matters more than their opposing political views
Kid Rock released his faith-based album Halfway 2 Jesus on Friday, featuring Eminem on the track “Heal My Faith.” The collaboration drew criticism from fans who questioned why Eminem would work with Rock. Eminem endorsed Kamala Harris at a Detroit rally in 2024 and has criticized Trump in songs such as “Campaign Speech.” Rock, meanwhile, has become one of Trump’s vocal supporters in the music industry.
Hours after the album’s release, Eminem addressed the collaboration on social media. “Not about choosing sides, just choosing to make music with my old friend. Praying for all of us,” he wrote. His verse also indicates that he doesn’t see their political differences as grounds to stop being friends. “He is my brother, not my political enemy,” Eminem raps on the track.
In an interview with Billboard, Rock explained how the song came together. He said Eminem was first announced as a guest on “7 Sins,” but ultimately appeared on “Heal My Faith,” the track Rock had originally asked him to join. “We agreed we didn’t need two songs together…people are going to think we’re dating,” Rock joked. He also said they had been friends for roughly 40 years and that he didn’t want Eminem to involve himself in his political life.
Rock told Billboard that the pair discuss politics occasionally but focus on what they share and can laugh about their differences. He said he asked the rapper to write a verse because they could disagree without becoming enemies. Rock described the album as a message about “forgiveness and second chances.” He added that he hopes its message encourages people to show more grace and reduce division in the country.
The collaboration shows that Eminem and Kid Rock are continuing to make music despite their political disagreements.
