Madonna defends Eminem’s controversial lyrics
Pop superstar Madonna has defended controversial rapper Eminem’s lyrics, saying they are less offensive than the words of new US president George W Bush.
The singer said Eminem is ‘‘provoking a discussion’’ with his work and added:
‘That is what art is supposed to do.’’
Madonna made her comments in a letter to the LA Times newspaper, which she signed as Mrs Ritchie following her December wedding to director Guy.
Eminem’s lyrics have upset gay rights and women’s groups as being misogynist and homophobic. There were protests outside his recent UK performances this month.
But Madonna said: ‘‘He’s stirring things up, he’s provoking a discussion, he’s making people’s blood boil. He’s reflecting what’s going on in society right now.’’
Eminem’s lyrics are also littered with swear words, but Madonna countered:
‘Since when is offensive language a reason for being unpopular? I find the language of George W much more offensive. I find the hypocritical nature of most popular figures in our culture much more offensive.
‘‘I like the fact that Eminem is brash and angry and politically incorrect. At least he has an opinion.
‘‘And after all he’s just a boy. Thank God he’s rebellious and not well-groomed. He gets my vote,’’ she added.
Sir Elton John - who is due to perform with Eminem at tonight’s Grammy awards - also backed the star in a letter.
‘‘As a gay artist, I’m asked by a lot of people, ‘But what about the content of Eminem’s music?’ I think there is far more humour on the album than people think.
‘‘It appeals to my English black sense of humour. When I put the album on the first time, I was in hysterics from laughing. We live in an age of political correctness where you can’t say this or that.
‘‘I honestly don’t think people will go out and start beating and killing people because of this album.’’
