Any true-blue Will Smith fan would know that before he became a big-shot actor, he was a rapper. His tracks were catchy, inoffensive, and the kind of hip-hop even a grandma could nod along to. His smash hit, 'Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It,' which borrowed from Brooklyn hip-hop lingo of the era, stayed at the top of the charts for a good three weeks, making Smith firmly a fixture in the music world. Of course, not everyone was a fan.

Despite ending up on a couple of 'worst single' lists, the track has stood the test of time, especially among the older crowd. And here is a look-back on the track that is still remembered as Smith's most iconic musical creation.

'Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It' is a contagiously catchy tune that sampled the 1979 Sister Sledge hit, 'He’s the Greatest Dancer'. Initially, the track's title might come across as a dance move or perhaps a dance style. And in some ways, that is not too far off. The song showcased Will Smith’s effortless, smooth delivery alongside a funky, dance-inspiring beat that practically begs listeners to hit the dance floor. It did not take long for the song to climb to the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100. However, despite the popularity, the track was not without its share of controversies. 

The primary reason for its backlash was its light-hearted and less edgy approach to hip-hop. Then came the accusation that the track was actually penned by American rapper, Nas. However, Nas later clarified that though he was there in the studio during the track's production and even offered suggestions for lines, yet it was Smith who ultimately wrote the entirety of the completed lyrics by himself. The track also helped the Fresh Prince earn a Grammy Award for Best Rap Solo Performance in 1999, a moment made even more meaningful for his family. 

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While accepting his Grammy, Will Smith delivered a touching shout-out to his son, creating a moment that would be cherished forever.

At the 1999 award ceremony, Missy Elliot presented Will Smith with a Grammy for his song 'Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It'. The American actor appeared visibly moved on stage as he thanked God and his second wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. He also delighted the audience with a funny story from his son Trey's parent-teacher meeting. The 55-year-old reflected on a conversation with Trey's teacher, who had mentioned his son's struggles with rhyming. 

Though she praised Trey's other skills, she hinted he needed to work on his rhyming skills. Will Smith took the fall for it, admitting he had not been all there as a dad, and gave a shout-out to his son by dedicating the award to him. And as for the track, its clever use of samples and catchy chord progressions has made it a timeless hit that will always get people grooving.

“She told me his rhyming skills are down,” – When Will Smith Dedicated His Grammy Win to His Son

What do you think about Will Smith’s track 'Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It'? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!