Black Eyed Peas frontman Will.i.am has responded to Tyler, The Creator, following the LA rapper’s heartfelt tweet that contained a friendly yet backhanded comment about the Elephunk emcee (William Adams).
Tyler, The Creator (real name Tyler Okonma) tweeted about the Black Eyed Peas and highlighted them as a group that influenced him greatly and wanted to draw attention to the anniversary of the group’s 1998 debut album, Behind the Front, which he praised for “helping shape my ear and getting me started to write words down.”
However, Okonma signed off his series of tweets with a humourous jab at Adams, posting, “Will. i. am is still a dipstick, BUT 25 years ago, Behind The Front by the Black Eyed Peas released. one of the first hip-hop albums I owned.”
The Odd Future visionary continued, “‘Joints and jams’ simple yet incredible video is still something I awe over and ‘love won’t wait’…sheesh…still amazing! this album was my introduction to the sounds of bossa nova cause of the great ear Will had for samples, which led to him doing that sergio mendes project almost a decade later.”
Will.i.am caught wind of the fact Okonma was tweeting about him and responded to the Flower Boy hitmaker praising him for his success, writing, Thanks for the LOVE… I’m beyond proud of you.”
He continued, “You’re an amazing contribution to the world of music and all things creative.” The Black Eyed Peas’ first project is still an underappreciated hidden hip-hop gem that draws on the neo-soul and J-Dilla production style of the late-’90s. The album boasts clever samples and unparalleled dynamism.
This isn’t the first time Okonma has mentioned Adams. In 2013, the LA rapper made a public bet that Will.i.am would remain respected in the hip-hop genre and wouldn’t have to sell out, tweeting, “I MADE A BET WITH WILL.I.AM FOR A MILLION BUCKS THAT I WILL BE MAKING MONEY 10 YEARS FROM NOW DOING WHAT I LOVE AND NOT WHAT MAKES THE MOST.”