Will Smith releases first album in 16 years, signaling return to music industry
Will Smith is making a significant return to the music scene with the announcement of his upcoming album, “Based on a True Story,” set to be released in March. This album marks his first complete studio project since “Lost and Found” back in 2005. Smith has been slowly building up to this moment, releasing multiple singles in collaboration with various well-known artists like Russ, Joyner Lucas, and even his son Jaden.
One of the singles, “You Can Make It,” featuring Fridayy and Sunday Service Choir, made quite an impact by reaching the number one spot on Billboard’s Gospel Airplay Chart in June. This success echoes back to 1997 when Smith’s hit “Gettin’ Jiggy With It” also claimed the top position on the charts. The momentum continued as he performed the new track at the 2024 BET Awards and made appearances at live events and festivals, setting the stage for his grand musical comeback.
Throughout the year, Smith has made memorable appearances, such as joining J Balvin onstage for a rendition of “Men In Black” and performing his classic hit “Miami” at the “Ride or Die” premiere, all in character. Furthermore, he closed out the year with a string of concerts in San Diego, thrilling fans with his unmistakable stage presence and energy.
To complement the album reveal, Smith dropped a new single titled “Beautiful Scars,” featuring hip-hop artist Big Sean, alongside a visually stunning music video. The track itself is a contemplative piece, delving into their personal journeys towards self-discovery. “Beautiful Scars” layers heartfelt rap verses over a melodious auto-tuned chorus, showcasing Smith’s lyrical prowess and storytelling ability.
As Smith prepares to reintroduce himself to the public as a full-fledged musical artist, the album is expected to have a cohesive narrative structure, allowing listeners to delve deep into his experiences and perspective. With his clear and impactful rhymes, Smith stands out from the clutter of modern mumble rap, offering a refreshing take on storytelling through music.
With the upcoming release of “Based on a True Story” and the exciting previews offered by singles like “You Can Make it” and “Beautiful Scars,” fans and music enthusiasts alike can look forward to Will Smith’s triumphant return to the music scene. This album signifies a new chapter in Smith’s career, demonstrating his versatility as an artist and his enduring ability to captivate audiences across various entertainment mediums.