Will Smith, the Oscar-winning actor and global entertainment icon, is set to make a remarkable return to the music industry after a 20-year hiatus. With his upcoming album titled Based On A True Story, Smith aims to reconnect with his roots in radio-friendly hip-hop. Scheduled for release on March 28, this new record is generating significant buzz among fans and the music industry alike.
Will Smith Announces His New Album Release Date
On March 10, Will Smith took to Instagram to announce his upcoming album. In a heartfelt post, he wrote:
The announcement immediately excited his 69.5 million Instagram followers and fans worldwide. The album, set to feature 14 tracks, will include collaborations with notable artists like DJ Jazzy Jeff, Teyana Taylor, and Jac Ross.
Will Smith’s New Single: “Beautiful Scars”
As part of the album’s promotion, Smith previously released the track Beautiful Scars in January. The song features prominent artists Big Sean and Obangain, showcasing Smith’s lyrical depth and storytelling prowess.
Collaborations and Features
The upcoming album will also see the reunion of Smith with his longtime collaborator DJ Jazzy Jeff. This iconic duo, known for their groundbreaking contributions to hip-hop, aims to reignite their classic chemistry in this fresh project. Additionally, with features from Teyana Taylor and Jac Ross, Smith’s album blends elements of R&B, hip-hop, and contemporary pop to cater to a diverse audience.
Will Smith’s Music Career: A Look Back
Before dominating Hollywood, Will Smith enjoyed a successful career in the music industry. As half of the dynamic duo DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, Smith rose to prominence in the late 1980s with hits like:
- “Parents Just Don’t Understand”
- “Girls Ain’t Nothing but Trouble”
These tracks became instant classics, aided by heavy MTV rotation. Smith’s musical influence extended further through his role in the hit NBC sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, which showcased his rapping talent and comedic flair.
Iconic Solo Career
Will Smith’s solo music career peaked with the album Big Willie Style in 1997. Featuring chart-topping hits such as:
- “Gettin’ Jiggy wit It”
- “Just the Two of Us”
- “Miami”
He followed this success with albums like Willennium (1999), Born to Reign (2002), and Lost and Found (2005). His tracks frequently accompanied blockbuster films like Wild Wild West and Men in Black, cementing his presence in both music and Hollywood.
The Impact of “The Slap” and Smith’s Career Recovery
Despite his entertainment success, Smith’s reputation took a hit following the infamous 2022 Oscars incident. During the live broadcast, Smith walked on stage and slapped comedian Chris Rock in response to a joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. This unexpected moment resulted in a 10-year ban from the Academy Awards and temporarily overshadowed Smith’s celebrated career.
Since then, Smith has worked to rebuild his public image. His return to music signals a potential turning point, reflecting his desire to reconnect with fans through his artistic roots.
What to Expect from Based On A True Story
Smith’s new album is anticipated to combine nostalgic elements from his earlier works with modern influences. By collaborating with emerging artists and trusted collaborators, Smith aims to create a versatile sound that appeals to both long-time fans and new listeners.
