Though his career as a battle rapper was cut short due to his immense success as a recording artist, Detroit MC Eminem cut his teeth on the battle circuit, and now he's giving back.

Eminem has announced that he is partnering with Red Bull to launch 'Red Bull EmSee: The Road to 8 Mile,' a national MC competition starting off June 21 (tonight) at the Bowery Ballroom in NYC. The contest will be judged by producers Just Blaze, Alchemist and battle legend Craig G, and will pit aspiring MC's head-to-head for three rounds, culminating in a final acapella battle.

"I'm looking for somebody to stand out, to be unique and to say the sickest, most ridiculous, most retarded s--- you can say, something that makes somebody want to quit," Eminem said.

The winner of the competition will win an opportunity to record with an unnamed "headlining producer" at Red Bull Studios.

After the N.Y. date, EmSee heads to San Francisco on July 16, Philadelphia on July 20, Orlando, on July 29, Atlanta on August 3, Greensboro on August 5 and Houston on August 12. The final stop will be in Em's hometown, Detroit, on August 26, where he will also announce the national champion. For more information click here.

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