Will.i.am Wants Nicki Minaj To Show The World "What Hip Hop Can Be"

4 July 2012, 17:39 | Updated: 4 July 2012, 18:04

The 'This Is Love' rapper says he is very proud of the 'Beez In The Trap' star for developing her music.

Will.i.am says he is very proud of Nicki Minaj and wants her to show the world "what hip hop can be".

The rapper worked alongside 'Starships' singer Nicki back in 2010 on his song 'Check It You', and has slammed those who have criticised her for developing her sound on new album 'Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded'.

"I'm proud of Nicki," will.i.am told Vibe Magazine this week. "You can't listen to this stuff about not being real hip hop.

"Whatever the music is called that's what it's called, whether it's hip hop, pop, rock, gospel or a freaking musical, who cares?" the 'Great Times' rapper explained. "Nicki is an artist and she is expressing herself. Why limit yourself?"

The Black Eyed Peas frontman went on to suggest the hip hop was limiting itself at the moment, and says Nicki is giving a positive new direction for the genre.

"I want Nicki to continue to show the world what hip hop can be," will.i.am added. "It doesn't always have to be about f*****g this stripper girl or getting money."

View a picture of will.i.am with Cheryl Cole for the 'Call My Name' singer's birthday in Las Vegas over the weekend below (Credit: Twitter):

'Beez In The Trap' rapper Nicki, who performing in the UK as part of her 'Pink Friday' world tour last month, begins a new UK arena tour in October this year when she arrives for a show at the Capital FM Arena in Nottingham on 21st October.

Nicki also performed at the BET Awards 2012 on Sunday (1st July, after picking up an award for Best Female Hip-Hop Artist, when she took to the stage for a performance of 'Beez In The Trap' and 'Champion'.

Will.i.am's most recent single 'This Is Love' topped the Vodafone Big Top 40 two weeks ago on its first day of release.