Entertainment, Music - Army Times

Eminem release possibly leaked online

Two big pieces of Eminem news: A version of the rapper’s new album, “Relapse,” may have leaked to the Web, and Eminem has set three dates with late-night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel — including one in metro Detroit.

Files labeled “Relapse” were appearing May 8 on Web-based sharing sites. The Free Press cannot confirm that the downloads are identical to the official release, which is set to hit stores May 19. Reps from his label declined to comment on the Web leaks.

During an interview with Eminem’s Sirius satellite station Shade 45 on April 23, Eminem, whose real name is Marshall Mathers, said he and his producer, Dr. Dre, were the only two with copies of the album to avoid the inevitable Internet leak. In 2004, fears of Internet piracy led the label to push up the release of his previous album “Encore” by a few days.

With “Relapse” scheduled for release this month, reps from “Jimmy Kimmel Live” announced Eminem will perform three times on the ABC talk show. He is set to perform May 15, with additional appearances slated May 19 and May 22.

According to the release, the May 22 performance will feature two live songs from Detroit.