Barack Obama raps Eminem's “Lose Yourself” at Detroit Rally: Viral moment

Former President Barack Obama surprised attendees at a campaign rally in Detroit by rapping the lines of Eminem's cult hit “Lose Yourself.”

Former President Barack Obama surprised attendees at a campaign rally in Detroit by rapping the opening lines of Eminem's cult hit “Lose Yourself.” The rally in support of Vice President Kamala Harris' presidential candidacy took place in Eminem's hometown. Both the rap superstar and Obama used the moment to encourage voter turnout and criticize former President Donald Trump's leadership.

Eminem calls on Detroit to vote

Before Obama took the stage, Eminem addressed the crowd and urged them to make their voices heard in the upcoming election. The Detroit-born rapper made a passionate plea: “It’s important to use your voice. I encourage everyone to get out and vote, please,” he said. He emphasized the importance of free speech, adding: “I don't think anyone wants an America where people are afraid of retaliation for what they say.” I think Vice President Harris supports a future for this country that in which these and many other freedoms are protected and preserved.”

Eminem's speech underscored the rally's broader theme: the defense of democratic rights and the importance of civic engagement. His presence brought local star power to an already energetic event.

Obama's surprise appearance

Following Eminem's remarks, Obama took the stage and began his speech by admitting that he felt some pressure after following the rap icon. “I have to say, I've been to a lot of rallies, so I don't usually get nervous, but I felt like I was kind of following Eminem,” Obama joked. He then wowed the crowd by rapping the first lines of Eminem's song Lose yourself: “I notice my palms are sweaty, my knees are weak, my arms are heavy, I've already vomited on my sweater, mom's spaghetti, I'm nervous, but on the surface I look calm and ready to drop bombs , but I keep forgetting…”

The unexpected appearance was met with cheers and laughter as Obama played up his role at the rally, making a nod to one of Detroit's most famous cultural exports. “I love Eminem,” Obama added, humorously suggesting that he had expected Eminem to appear and would only make a guest appearance.

A music fan and a harsh critic of Trump

Obama is known for his love of music and often shares his favorite songs on social media, with selections including both contemporary hits and classic tracks. His 2024 summer playlist included artists like Beyoncé, Tyla and Rema, as well as timeless tracks from Nick Drake and The Supremes. This longstanding connection to music made his appearance in Detroit all the more fitting, especially alongside Eminem.

Obama soon took a more serious tone, sharply criticizing Donald Trump's actions during the 2020 election. He recalled Trump's baseless claims of voter fraud, which led to protests and intimidation at polling stations, including in Michigan. “Because Donald Trump was willing to spread lies about voter fraud in Michigan, protesters came banging on the windows and chanting, 'Let us in. Stop the count,'” Obama told the crowd. He described how election workers were intimidated because “Donald Trump couldn’t accept defeat.”

Obama didn't mince his words when he questioned Trump's fitness for office. “You would be worried if Grandpa acted like that,” he said, referring to Trump’s erratic behavior. “But this is coming from someone who wants uncontrolled power.”

A direct contrast between Trump and Harris

Obama also took aim at a recent publicity stunt by Trump in which the former president posed as an employee at a McDonald's kitchen and drive-thru closed to the public. In stark contrast, Obama highlighted the real-life experience Harris had at McDonald's while she was a student. “She didn't pretend to work at McDonald's when it was closed,” Obama quipped, drawing a clear line between Harris' authenticity and Trump's theatrics.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, who was also at the rally, echoed Obama's sentiments. He called Trump's McDonald's appearance a form of “cosplaying” and criticized the stunt as nothing more than “fake orders for fake customers.” Walz also condemned Trump's threats to use military force against his critics and stressed the importance of free speech. “He's talking about using the military against people who don't support him. He names names,” Walz said.

Support for Kamala Harris

The Detroit rally was not only a display of star power, but also a stark reminder of what is at stake in the 2024 elections. Obama's appearance, along with Eminem's support for Harris, was part of a broader push to motivate voters and emphasize the need to protect democratic freedoms. The event served as an opportunity to draw a clear contrast between Harris' values ​​and Trump's leadership style, setting the stage for the heated election campaign ahead.