Eminem beefs up Encore

NEW YORK (Billboard) – Although details remain tightly under wraps, Billboard has learned that Eminem’s upcoming album, “Encore,” will be available in a special collector’s edition:

http://www.reuters.com/newsArticle.jhtml?type=musicNews&storyID=6433315

Due Nov. 16 via Shady/Interscope, the boxed set will feature 25 glossy photo inserts, full album lyrics, an exclusive Eminem photo and an exclusive free ringtone.

“Encore” is tipped to include a bonus disc of songs that have leaked online. First single “Just Lose It” bowed last week at No. 17 on the Billboard Hot 100, and it’s the highest-debuting airplay-only track of the year to date.

The accompanying video clip finds Slim Shady (Eminem) goofing on Michael Jackson circa “Billy Jean,” Pee Wee Herman and Santa Claus, as well as jogging in the nude down a busy street. Actors Erik Estrada (“CHIPS”) and Tony Cox (“Bad Santa”) make cameos. Fans can view the video on Eminem’s official Web site (http://www.eminem.com).

The new set is the follow-up to 2002’s “The Eminem Show,” which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and has sold more than 9.2 million copies in the United States, according to Nielsen SoundScan.

Reuters/Billboard