6 Failed Rock + Rap Experiments by Classic Rockers
Rock and rap have crossed paths many times, sometimes with great results. However, not every collaboration hits the mark. Here are six attempts by classic rock artists to blend with rap that didn’t quite succeed.
1. Brian Wilson – “Smart Girls” (1991)
Brian Wilson, known for his work with The Beach Boys, ventured into rap with “Smart Girls” in 1991. The song samples several Beach Boys hits and features Wilson rapping about intelligent women. Despite its unique concept, the track was met with confusion and criticism.
“Smart Girls” was intended for the album Sweet Insanity, which was ultimately shelved. The song remains a curious footnote in Wilson’s career, often cited as an example of a well-intentioned but misguided genre crossover.
2. Jimmy Page & Puff Daddy – “Come with Me” (1998)
Led Zeppelin’s Jimmy Page collaborated with rapper Puff Daddy for the 1998 Godzilla soundtrack. The track “Come with Me” reimagines Zeppelin’s “Kashmir” with added rap verses and heavy production. While it garnered attention, many fans felt it lacked the original’s essence.
NME
Critics were divided, with some appreciating the bold fusion, while others saw it as a mismatch. The song’s commercial success couldn’t mask the polarized reception it received from both rock and rap audiences.
3. Slash, Cypress Hill & Fergie – “Paradise City” (2009)
Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash teamed up with hip-hop group Cypress Hill and pop singer Fergie for a new version of “Paradise City” in 2009. The collaboration aimed to blend rock, rap, and pop elements. However, the result was met with widespread criticism.
Fans and critics alike felt the reimagined track strayed too far from the original’s spirit. The combination of styles didn’t resonate, making it a less memorable entry in Slash’s discography.
4. Ozzy Osbourne & Busta Rhymes – “This Means War!!” (1998)
In 1998, metal icon Ozzy Osbourne collaborated with rapper Busta Rhymes on “This Means War!!” The track samples Black Sabbath’s “Iron Man” and features Osbourne’s vocals alongside Rhymes’ energetic rap. Despite the star power, the song received mixed reviews.
Some listeners appreciated the attempt to merge genres, but others felt the execution lacked cohesion. The track didn’t achieve significant chart success, and it’s often overlooked in both artists’ catalogs.
5. Phil Collins & Bone Thugs-N-Harmony – “Home” (2002)
Phil Collins, known for his solo work and time with Genesis, collaborated with rap group Bone Thugs-N-Harmony on the song “Home” in 2002. The track samples Collins’ “Take Me Home” and features new verses from the group. While the idea was innovative, the execution fell flat.
Critics pointed out the lack of chemistry between Collins’ melodies and the group’s rap style. The song didn’t make a significant impact on the charts and remains a lesser-known experiment in Collins’ career.
6. Jack White & Insane Clown Posse – “Leck Mich Im Arsch” (2011)
In 2011, Jack White of The White Stripes collaborated with rap duo Insane Clown Posse on “Leck Mich Im Arsch,” a track based on a Mozart composition. The song’s title translates to “Lick Me in the Arse,” and it features a blend of classical music with rap lyrics. The unusual pairing raised eyebrows.
While some appreciated the experimental nature, many found the track perplexing. The collaboration didn’t resonate with a broad audience and is often cited as one of the more bizarre genre mashups.
