Will Smith Set to Make Triumphant Return to Hip-Hop with New Album
Will Smith, the versatile actor, rapper, and producer, has officially announced the release date of his highly anticipated album, marking a significant return to the hip-hop scene after a remarkable 20-year break. This news has garnered excitement across social media platforms, particularly Instagram, where Smith shared the details with his fans.
In a heartfelt post to his 69.5 million followers, he wrote: “It’s OFFICIAL!! My new album, Based On A True Story, drops on March 28. TWO WEEKS!! Hit that presave. Been working on this project for a minute and I’m itchin’ to get it out to y’all 🫶🏾.” This announcement highlights not only his enthusiasm but also his dedication to this new project.
This new offering consists of 14 tracks and promises exciting collaborations, including partnerships with DJ Jazzy Jeff, Teyana Taylor, and Jac Ross. Smith recently released a single titled “Beautiful Scars,” featuring Big Sean and Obangain, in January, setting the stage for his imminent comeback.
Smith’s career, which began in the late 1980s as one-half of the groundbreaking duo DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince, is rich with iconic music and memorable performances. He gained early recognition for hits like “Parents Just Don’t Understand” and “Girls Ain’t Nothing but Trouble,” both of which were staples of MTV’s early days.
His influence extended beyond music with the success of the beloved NBC sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, which showcased his musical talent while simultaneously launching his Hollywood career. As he transitioned into feature films, Smith continued to integrate music into his projects, with notable soundtracks for blockbusters such as Wild Wild West and Men in Black. His album Big Willie Style (1997) was a commercial success, followed by three additional records: Willennium (1999), Born to Reign (2002), and Lost and Found (2005), after which he chose to prioritize his acting career.
Despite his enduring status as a pop culture icon, Smith has faced recent challenges, particularly following the controversial incident at the 2022 Academy Awards, where he slapped comedian Chris Rock after a joke directed at his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. This event significantly impacted his reputation, leading to a 10-year ban from attending the Oscars as he navigates the personal and professional consequences of that moment.
As excitement builds for his new album, fans are eager to see how Smith will balance his past experiences with fresh musical storytelling, reinforcing his position in the entertainment landscape.