Eminem songs are known to be strong, provocative, and sometimes inspirational. His singles that have a knack for violent lyrics always get the attention of fans and critics. For that, the rapper always get flak, especially if his lyrics are aimed towards popular artists. In a case in Pennsylvania, Eminem songs and the singer himself are again in hot water after a man accused of threatening his wife posted a Facebook status described to be inspired by Marshall Matthers.
Anthony Elonis of Bethlehem was sentenced to up to four years in prison for violent lyrics aimed at no one. His lawyer insists the accused was just a fan of rap music especially Eminem songs. This case attracted a lot of attention. Some even say that turning to the Facebook status of Elonis is clearly a violation of free spech.
Billboard reported on December 1:
"The Supreme Court is weighing the free-speech rights of people who use violent or threatening language on Facebook and other social media.
The justices will hear arguments Monday in the case of a man who was sentenced to nearly four years in prison for posting graphically violent rap lyrics on Facebook about killing his estranged wife, shooting up a kindergarten class and attacking an FBI agent."
The suspect and his lawyer insisted that he is just being poetic and didn't mean to cause any physical harm to his wife.
"Elonis argues that his online posts under the pseudonym "Tone Dougie" were simply a crude and spontaneous form of expression that should not be considered threatening if he didn't really mean it. His lawyers say the posts were heavily influenced by rap star Eminem, who has also fantasized in songs about killing his ex-wife."
Just last month, Eminem was lambasted by the public for his freestyle rap wherein he said that he would want to punch Lana del Rey as he rapped about Ray Rice. It was then followed by another Eminem song wherein he said that he'd raped Iggy Azalea.
