Will Smith Tells Rakim He Was Attempting to Sound Like Him on ‘Summertime’

Will Smith has openly acknowledged mimicking Rakim on “Summertime,” the 1991 hit single he created with DJ Jazzy Jeff, during a recent interaction at CBS’ A Grammy Salute to 50 Years of Hip-Hop.

Following the event, while backstage with Rakim, Smith confirmed that he intentionally adopted the style of the esteemed rapper on the iconic track. Rakim further explained the backstory, stating that “Summertime” was a track they had considered using but opted not to include on their first album due to timing and thematic considerations. The new revelation about Smith’s imitation of Rakim can be seen in a seven-minute behind-the-scenes clip of his night at the CBS special, available on YouTube.