Will.I.Am Blasted For Absence From 'The Voice'

Will.i.am has been surrounded by controversy since joining The Voice and is facing criticism once again - he's been slammed for spending too little time with his contestants.

The Black Eyed Peas rapper was given a scolding by bosses and accused of being rude when he tweeted from his mobile phone during Saturday's live show.

And now the star has been blasted for failing to give enough time to the acts he's mentoring on the BBC programme.

An insider told The Mirror: "Some of Will's acts were furious that they hadn't been given more contact with their coach. He isn't interested in tutoring the singers on their performances. He just wants to have a chat and be done with it. His acts have to contact him by Twitter if they need help, but there's no telling where he might be."

Will is reportedly being paid £600,000 to appear on the show and train his chosen acts.

His singers are said to be dissatisfied with his efforts in comparison to fellow coach Tom Jones, who rehearses with his team members five times a week.

However, the hip-hop star is adamant that keeping his distance is not damaging to Team Will.

He explained: "I've just got a different approach... My coaching is, 'Hey, let's talk.'"

When asked if he thought his competitors were at a disadvantage because of his absence, he said: "I'm not worried. I don't get nervous about not being here. It all depends on how you coach. If you focus on trying to unlock the magic within you, there's no coach and no rehearsal which can bring that."