Will Smith drops Based on a True Story, his first album in 20 years, featuring DJ Jazzy Jeff, Teyana Taylor, and viral Matrix-inspired videos.
After 20 years, will Will Smith finally release new music?
Keep your headphones on—Will Smith recently revealed Based on a True Story, his first full-length album since Lost and Found in 2005.
The 14-track album, which combines new beats with nostalgic feelings, will be released on March 28 and represents his major comeback to music.
“It’s official! He teased fans to pre-order the album on Instagram, saying, “I’ve been working on this for a minute.”
Who Will Smith Is Adding to the Tracklist?
The line-up? Legends and up-and-coming talent mixed together. Smith’s original hip-hop collaborator, DJ Jazzy Jeff, is back, along with Teyana Taylor and Jac Ross.
Not only that, but previous hits like “Work of Art” (which featured son Jaden Smith and Russ) and the BET Awards winner “You Can Make It” will also be included. What a team that can blend genres!
Will Smith’s New Video: Why Did He Channel The Matrix?
Let the slow-motion kicks begin! Smith plays Neo in his “Beautiful Scars” music video with Big Sean, a reference to The Matrix, a role he famously gave up in 1999.
Fans wonder if this is a cheeky redemption arc as Big Sean takes over as Morpheus.
Smith continues to stir up controversy in pop culture, as evidenced by the viral success of the clip.
To What Extent Is This Album Personal?
Smith hasn’t held back. During 18 months of studio work, he created what he described as his “most personal and powerful music ever” in a 2024 interview.
Heartfelt lyrics and songs like “Tantrum” (with Joyner Lucas) allude to unvarnished tales from his life.
Interpretation? Get ready for rap-style emotional stakes on par with I Am Legend.
Why Is Will’s New Prince Dance Coming Back?
Too much nostalgia! Smith recreated his signature ’90s moves in a TikTok dance challenge with his Fresh Prince co-stars Tatyana Ali and Doechii.
He made a joke on Instagram, saying, “I waited 35 years for this dance to become popular.”
Evidence that Carlton’s dance and his charm are genuinely ageless.
Quick Facts: Will Smith’s Musical Comeback
- Title & Release Date: March 28, 2025: Based on a True Story.
- Collaborations: Involves Big Sean, Teyana Taylor, Jaden Smith, and DJ Jazzy Jeff.
- Matrix Moment: Smith’s previously declined role is revisited in the “Beautiful Scars” video.
- Personal Lyrics: Smith describes this as his most precarious endeavor to date.
- Fresh Prince Flashback: Tatyana Ali’s dance challenge went viral online.