Will Smith is finding himself in hot water as his return to rap music is met with criticism from both industry insiders and music fans.
A source shared with RadarOnline.com that the I Am Legend actor’s latest attempt at a rap career has drawn negative reactions from critics in the music world. According to one insider, there’s a general consensus that Smith’s age and style make it difficult for him to connect with modern hip-hop audiences.
“Will is getting up there in age, and there’s no way he’ll connect with today’s hip-hop crowd,” the insider stated, adding that his return feels out of touch with current trends.
The source didn’t hold back, saying, “This reeks of desperation—and frankly, the music itself is some of the worst we’ve heard. It feels like a desperate attempt on his part to reclaim relevance.”
Smith’s music career has been impacted by events in his personal life, notably the infamous incident at the 2022 Oscars when he slapped comedian Chris Rock. Critics are now viewing his effort to make a rap comeback as an ill-timed move that’s not resonating well with rap fans.
“Will has been out of the music game for so long, rap fans just don’t see him as relevant anymore,” another industry insider commented. “He always made more family-friendly, lighter rap, but with the likes of Kendrick Lamar dominating the genre, that’s just not where the rap world is today.”
Some have even predicted that Smith’s music comeback could lead to a major setback in his career. “You can see him struggling,” one insider said, reflecting the growing skepticism surrounding his return to the genre.
In an attempt to gauge his audience, Smith is reportedly testing the waters internationally before committing to a potential U.S. tour. “He’s now a relic in the rap world,” said one source. “This could lead to a failure that damages his career for good.”
As Will Smith attempts to make his way back into the rap scene, the response from both critics and fans suggests that his comeback might not be as successful as he hoped.
