Will Smith slammed by critics over 'desperate' attempt to revive long-dead rap career

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Will Smith is under pressure as he tries to restart his career through a return to rap.

After a two-decade break from music, he's now facing criticism from industry insiders who believe he’s out of touch with today’s hip-hop scene.

Will Smith would 'no way' be able to connect with today's hip-hop fans

The 56-year-old star is still dealing with the fallout from the Chrisk Rock Oscar slap in 2022 and is hoping his music can shift public opinion. But the early response is not encouraging.

Smith’s comeback attempt is being labeled by some as a sign of desperation, with strong doubts about whether he can resonate with today’s rap audience.

“Will is almost a senior citizen now, and there's no way he'll be able to connect with today's hip-hop crowd,” a well-connected industry source told Radar Online.

“This stinks of desperation, and the music stinks, too. It's actually some of the worst in history and this stinks of pure desperation on his part.”

Smith dropped 'Based on a True Story', his first album in 20 years, on March 28. The lead single seems to reference the Oscars incident directly: “I hate it when I lose it / but I face the music / Oh, why did he do it / See, I'm only human,” he raps.

Insider says Will Smith is no longer 'relevant' in rap

Despite the personal lyrics, Will Smith’s single failed to crack the Billboard Top 100, raising concern over his ability to reclaim his spot in the music industry, noted the outlet.

“Will has been out of the music game for so long, rap fans just don't seem to think he's relevant anymore,” the source said.

“He always made lighter, more family-friendly rap, but with the likes of hardcore Kendrick Lamar being the biggest stars, that just isn't the rap world these days," the source explained to the outlet.

Will Smith is 'a relic' who is likely to suffer 'failure'

It noted that once a chart-topping artist with DJ Jazzy Jeff, Will Smith’s music was known for its upbeat tone—but that style may now feel out of place.

Still, Smith is moving forward with a 26-date tour across Europe this summer in support of his new album.

"Will is testing the waters overseas before considering a US tour," the source said. "But he's now a relic in the rap world and likely to suffer a failure that will kill his career completely."