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Insider Guilty Plea: Millions Streamed Eminem's Stolen Tracks
22 Oct
Summary
- Former studio employee pleads guilty to copyright infringement.
- Sold over two dozen unreleased Eminem songs for $50,000.
- Leaked music garnered over 8 million streams on public platforms.
Joseph Strange, a former 14-year employee at Eminem's music studio, has pleaded guilty to criminal copyright infringement. This plea, entered on October 22, 2026, concludes charges filed in March 2025 stemming from the unlawful distribution of over two dozen unreleased Eminem songs. Strange's role included operating the computer system where the music was stored, granting him access to password-protected drives.
Between July and August 2024, Strange copied and sold at least ten unreleased music files for approximately $50,000. This unauthorized distribution led to the music being streamed over 8 million times. Authorities were alerted in January 2025 by studio employees who discovered the material online.
An FBI search of Strange's home in January 2025 uncovered hard drives with the leaked music and Eminem's notes. Strange allegedly cited needing funds for surgery as his motive. He faces a maximum of five years in prison, with sentencing scheduled for January 27, 2027.
Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Runyan stated that accountability follows those who compromise creative labor, emphasizing the protection of intellectual property. Eminem's team expressed appreciation for the FBI's investigation, highlighting the significant damage to the rapper's legacy and the financial losses incurred.
