Will Smith Releases First Album in 20 Years: ‘Based on a True Story’
Will Smith is making a significant return to the music industry with his latest project titled Based on a True Story, which was released on March 28, 2024. This marks his first studio album since the 2005 release of Lost and Found.
Album Overview and Themes
The new album arrives at a transformative time for Smith, who has been reflecting on his personal journey and embracing fresh creative opportunities. In promotional materials, he described this exploration as crucial to a deeper understanding of his identity and artistry: “The past couple of years, I’ve been doing a very deep exploration of who and what I truly am,” Smith stated in an Instagram teaser. He emphasized, “This is about to be the greatest artistic creative period of my entire life.”
The album consists of 14 tracks that blend classic hip-hop elements with contemporary production. Themes of redemption, vulnerability, and identity permeate the work, showcasing a matured perspective rooted in Smith’s life experiences.
Collaborations and Singles
Smith has shared several singles leading up to the album’s release, each contributing to the album’s narrative. Notable tracks include:
- “Beautiful Scars” featuring Big Sean
- “Tantrum” with Joyner Lucas
- “You Can Make It” featuring Teyana Taylor
- “Work of Art” featuring Russ and Jaden Smith
The album also sees the return of longtime collaborator DJ Jazzy Jeff, underlining Smith’s roots in hip-hop and his commitment to engaging with fans in a meaningful way.
Inspiration Behind the Title
The title, Based on a True Story, draws inspiration from advice given to Smith by Jay-Z: “You gotta say what’s true for you… Be true to your story. Tell your story,” Smith recalled in an interview, illustrating the personal nature of this project.
Cultural Reentry and Public Appearances
This album marks a strategic reentry into public life for Smith, especially following the events surrounding the 2022 Oscars incident. Instead of retreating from the spotlight, Smith has chosen to address his journey transparently, integrating personal experiences into his music.
In addition to the album release, he has planned a world tour set to begin in Europe this summer, further solidifying his return to performing. He also recently captivated audiences at the Rock in Rio festival, where he performed tracks from both the new album and classic hits such as “Gettin’ Jiggy wit It” and “Summertime”.
Streaming Availability
Based on a True Story is now available for streaming on all major platforms, inviting listeners to engage with Smith’s introspective and dynamic sound.