Smith will co-host the fifth BET awards ceremony in Los Angeles

Smith, who won his first rap Grammy in 1988, wants hip-hop artists to shift away from violent themes.

"The kids that are making these trends, making these songs, don't understand the level of effect that black Americans have around the world.

"It's real important to have balance of the imagery," said Smith.

Survival

"The dude that sells the drugs, or has the guns, or is most willing to kill somebody is the dude that has the greatest potential for survival, or at least that's the perception. So that's what people strive for," explained the 36-year-old star.

"What I'm trying to present, and what a lot of other artists are presenting, is a different approach to survival.

"It's a more long-term approach based on intellect and skills that can't be taken away from you - the smartest dude survives the best."

He stressed the importance of presenting a more responsible image, given the international influence of many black rap stars.

"Black Americans are so elevated, it's almost worship," said Smith, reflecting on the prevalence of rap fans on a recent trip to Africa.