With help from surprise guests, Eminem launched his Sirius Satellite Radio Shade 45 channel at the Shady National Convention at New York's Roseland Ballroom last night.
In addition to celebrating the launch of the new channel, the night served as a platform for artists to bash current president George W. Bush. Early on, the convention's political theme was evident as delegates from across the country crowded the stage and the venue was filled with "I Will Vote" signs.
After an extensive delay, Busta Rhymes came out to speak on the night's festivities. Bus-A-Bus' brief speech was followed by P. Diddy supposedly introducing Eminem. Just as conventioneers grew tired of dancing to the latest Hip-Hop tunes, Method Man popped up to stall the restless crowd. Finally, after another lengthy delay, Em, dressed in suit and tie, finally took the stage to promote the launch of his new channel and snap at the president in the process.
Slim treated the audience to cuts like "Square Dance," "Kill You" and "White America" before bringing out D12 and B. Real of Cypress Hill. Slim later introduced Shady Records' newest artist, Atlanta's Stat Quo before Obie Trice took the stage. Obie closed his set with 'Oh!' accompanied by Busta doing the hook. Busta teased the crowd by performing an abbreviated version of "Break Yo Neck" twice.
The atmosphere reached a fever pitch when 50 Cent joined Em and Obie to perform "Love Me" and "Patiently Waiting." 50 ended his short set with "In Da Club" assisted by Tony Yayo. Slim then closed the evening with his present hit "Just Lose It" as balloons descended on the crowd.