Eminem Defends New Collaboration With ‘Old Friend’ Kid Rock: ‘Not About Choosing Sides’

Eminem defended appearing on Kid Rock’s faith-based album, saying their long friendship mattered more than their political differences. The collaboration drew criticism from some Eminem fans, given his past support for Kamala Harris and criticism of Donald Trump, while Rock is a prominent Trump supporter.

Eminem features on “Heal My Faith” on Rock’s album *Halfway 2 Jesus*, released on Friday. Rock said the pair had been friends for about 40 years and that he did not want to draw Eminem into his politics; the song and album, he said, promote forgiveness, second chances and healing division.