Will Smith is making a triumphant return to the music scene with the announcement of his first full-length album in over two decades. Titled "Based on a True Story," this highly anticipated project is scheduled for release on March 28, 2025. The album promises to be a star-studded affair, featuring a mix of collaborations with well-known artists such as DJ Jazzy Jeff, Teyana Taylor, Jac Ross, and the rapper Obanga.
The album comprises 14 tracks, including several previously released singles like "Beautiful Scars," "First Love," "TANTRUM," "Work of Art," and "You Can Make It." Notably, the latter single featuring Fridayy and the Sunday Service Choir recently climbed to the top of the Billboard Gospel Airplay Chart, marking Smith's first chart-topping hit since his 1998 classic "Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It." This uplifting track, which was debuted during a stirring performance at the 2024 BET Awards, has resonated strongly with audiences, blending elements of hip-hop and gospel.
Fans were excited to see Smith's antics on social media leading up to the album's release. He recently collaborated with Grammy-winning rapper Doechii to recreate an iconic scene from his beloved '90s sitcom, "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air." In a humorous video that went viral, they danced to Doechii’s hit song "Anxiety" alongside Smith’s former co-star, Tatyana Ali. The clip was a nostalgic nod that has garnered over 7 million views on Instagram, showcasing their playful rapport and the staying power of their legacy.
"It’s OFFICIAL!! My new album Based On A True Story drops March 28," Smith announced on Instagram, expressing his excitement for the project. "Been working on this project for a minute and I’m itchin’ to get it out to y’all." Alongside the announcement, he shared a first look at the album cover, fueling further excitement among fans.
Smith's return to music comes after a significant hiatus, with his last album, "Lost and Found," released back in March 2005. Since then, he has solidified his presence as a blockbuster film star, but his musical roots are undeniable. His collaboration with DJ Jazzy Jeff, who is known for their classic hit "Summertime," adds an element of nostalgia to the upcoming release.
Not only is Smith making waves in music, but he is also maintaining his presence in the entertainment industry in other ways. Recently, he made a memorable appearance at the 2025 GRAMMY Awards, where he paid tribute to his longtime mentor, Quincy Jones. This moment underscored his lasting influence in the entertainment landscape and his evolution as an artist.
As anticipation builds for "Based on a True Story," listeners can expect a blend of nostalgia and fresh artistry from the legendary entertainer. Will Smith continues to demonstrate that his talents extend far beyond the silver screen, and he remains a vibrant figure in popular culture.
Given the variety of musical influences on this upcoming album, industry insiders are eager to see how Smith’s latest work will resonate with audiences. With each passing day, excitement grows, and many are already circling the March 28 release date on their calendars.
For those who still remember his earlier hits, such as the chart-topping “Men in Black” and “Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It,” Smith’s new music may be a comforting return to familiar sounds, reimagined through the lens of his growth as an artist.
In addition to the new album and his return to live performance, fans are hopeful that this marks a new chapter in Smith's musical career and a possible resurgence of his presence in the music industry. As the release date approaches, it’s clear that Will Smith is ready to reestablish himself as a formidable force in not just film but also in the world of music.
With "Based on a True Story," Smith invites listeners to join him on a journey that reflects not only his experiences but also his growth over the past two decades. It is certain that his fans will support him as he navigates this exciting new phase in his career.
