Eminem faces new gun charges

Rap star Eminem is led into court by a police officer

Controversial rap star Eminem has been charged with more weapons offences after allegedly brandishing a gun at a rival band member.

The US artist, who was bailed earlier this week on separate firearms charges, was quizzed by police on Thursday about the new allegations.

Eminem, 27, whose real name is Marshall Mathers, was accused of possessing a concealed weapon and brandishing a firearm when he appeared in court in Royal Oak, Michigan.

Oakland County Prosecutor David Gorcya said the rapper got into a dispute with Douglas Dail of Insane Clown Posse outside a stereo shop.

In the dock: a handcuffed Eminem listens to the proceedings

Mr Gorcya told the court the pair exchanged words before Eminem got out and waved a pistol around, issuing threats.

"I think this is probably good publicity for him," he suggested. "The mantra for a rapper is to be a tough guy. Maybe among those in the rapper world, this might be a badge of honour."

Eminem spokesman Paul Rosenberg dismissed the claim as "ridiculous".

"He can't rewrite history, but I'm sure he wishes what happened on Saturday night and Sunday morning never happened," he said.

The latest accusations came a day after Eminem was charged with carrying a concealed weapon and assault with a deadly weapon relating to an incident in the early hours of Sunday.

Kissing

It is alleged he hit a man over the head with an unloaded gun after accusing him of kissing his wife.

But his lawyer, Howard Hertz, insists Eminem will be cleared of all charges.

"We think that and believe we will be able to favourably resolve this serious matter and my client looks forward to leaving on his tour and resolving all of these matters in a very brief period of time."

Eminem was freed on $100,000 (£62,500) bail for the first offences and $10,000 (£6,250) for the latest allegations.

As he was driven away from court, he waved to a group of screaming fans.

Events of the last week do not appear to have dented his popularity.

The Grammy-winning star still has the number one album in America with The Marshal Mathers LP, while his latest single, The Real Slim Shady, has risen one place to number seven.

The Marshal Mathers LP is currently at number three in the UK album charts.