Rap about the things that are most important in your life. In songs like "Potnaz," Smith raps about friends and family that have stuck by him through past struggles and continue to show loyalty.
Sample retro songs. Smith's song, "Will 2K" samples The Clash's "Rock The Casbah," and his song, "Can You Feel Me" samples Michael Jackson's "Working Day and Night."
Showcase other people's talents. Smith continues to include his best friend and former business partner DJ Jazzy Jeff on songs such as "Pump Me Up," which was written to highlight Jeff's turntable talents. The song, "Afro Angel" also featured a spoken word intro by Smith's wife, Jada Pinkett Smith.
Reference old songs in your new ones. Smith occasionally inserts lines into his rap lyrics which reference his older song titles, such as on his 1999 album, Willenium which references both his 1991 hit, "Summertime" as well as "Boom Shake the Room" from 1993.
Incorporate your name into your album or song titles. Smith has done this for albums such as "Big Willie Style" and "Willenium" as well as songs like "Will 2K."