Will Smith is making a long-awaited return to the music scene with the announcement of his first album in 20 years, Based on a True Story. The project, set to release on March 28, 2025, marks a significant moment in the actor and rapper’s career, revisiting his musical roots after focusing on Hollywood for the past two decades.
A Look Back at Will Smith’s Musical Career
Before becoming one of the most bankable stars in Hollywood, Will Smith was a respected rapper, rising to fame in the late 1980s as part of DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince. The duo achieved success with hits like “Summertime” and “Parents Just Don’t Understand,” earning the first-ever Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance in 1989. Smith’s solo career later took off with tracks such as “Gettin’ Jiggy wit It” and “Miami,” further solidifying his reputation in hip-hop.
However, as his acting career flourished with blockbuster films like Men in Black, Ali, and Bad Boys, Smith gradually stepped away from music. His last studio album, Lost and Found, was released in 2005, making this comeback a highly anticipated one.
What to Expect from Based on a True Story
Will Smith has described Based on a True Story as a deeply personal project reflecting his life experiences over the past two decades. The album will reportedly touch on themes of personal growth, resilience, and lessons learned from both triumphs and setbacks.
The first two singles, “Beautiful Scars” and “Work of Art,” offer insight into the album’s direction. “Beautiful Scars” explores the idea of embracing life’s hardships as part of one’s journey, while “Work of Art” is an uplifting track celebrating self-improvement and perseverance.
The project will also feature collaborations with artists like Teyana Taylor, his son Jaden Smith, and longtime friend and collaborator DJ Jazzy Jeff. Fans can expect a blend of classic hip-hop influences with a modern twist, bringing Smith’s signature storytelling back into the spotlight.
A Career Revival or a Passion Project?
Will Smith’s return to music comes at a time when he is also rebuilding his public image following the infamous 2022 Academy Awards incident. While he has since taken steps to move forward, including focusing on new film projects and personal development, Based on a True Story could serve as another chapter in his reinvention.
Some speculate whether this album is a full-fledged comeback or simply a personal endeavor that allows Smith to reconnect with his artistic roots. Either way, the release of new music from a veteran artist like Smith is bound to generate interest across both hip-hop and mainstream audiences.
The Legacy of Will Smith in Music and Film
Whether as a rapper, actor, or producer, Will Smith has built a legacy that spans multiple industries. His ability to adapt and evolve has kept him relevant for over three decades. While the entertainment landscape has changed drastically since his last album, Smith’s charisma and storytelling ability remain strong assets.
With Based on a True Story set to drop soon, fans and critics alike will be eager to see whether Will Smith’s return to music will resonate in today’s hip-hop scene. Regardless of how the album performs commercially, it represents a significant moment in his career—one that showcases his continued passion for creative expression.
