After stepping away from the recording studio for more than two decades, Will Smith is orchestrating a powerful return to his musical roots with his forthcoming album Based on a True Story. The 14-track collection, arriving March 28, represents Smith’s first complete album project since Lost and Found dropped in 2005, generating significant anticipation among music enthusiasts across generations.
Collaborative genius fuels creative resurgence
Smith’s musical rebirth features an impressive roster of artistic partnerships. Longtime creative companion DJ Jazzy Jeff returns to the fold, while contemporary talents Teyana Taylor and Jac Ross bring fresh energy to the project. These collaborations demonstrate Smith’s remarkable ability to maintain industry relationships while evolving his sound for today’s audience.
The album’s impressive guest list extends beyond these core contributors. Big Sean, OBanga, Joyner Lucas, India Martinez, Marcin, Russ, Jaden Smith, Fridayy, and the Sunday Service Choir all make appearances throughout the collection, creating a rich tapestry of musical perspectives.
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Chart success signals triumphant return
To build momentum for the full album release, Smith has strategically unveiled several singles that showcase the project’s diverse sonic landscape:
- “First Love”
- “Beautiful Scars”
- “TANTRUM”
- “Work of Art”
- “You Can Make It”
The inspirational anthem “You Can Make It,” featuring Fridayy and the Sunday Service Choir, has already achieved remarkable success, climbing to the top position on Billboard’s Gospel Airplay Chart. This achievement marks Smith’s first No. 1 single since his iconic 1998 smash “Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It,” demonstrating his enduring commercial appeal. The track, which Smith introduced at the 2024 BET Awards, exemplifies the uplifting message that appears to form the emotional core of Based on a True Story.
Social media savvy connects generations
Smith has masterfully leveraged contemporary digital platforms to generate excitement around his musical comeback. On March 14, he delighted fans by sharing a nostalgic yet current TikTok video that reimagined a beloved scene from “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.” The clip featured Smith alongside former co-star Tatyana Ali participating in the viral “Anxiety” dance challenge, which cleverly references a scene where Ali’s character Ashley dances unaware that Smith’s character mimics her movements.
The video took an unexpected turn when Doechii, whose track “Anxiety” powers the popular challenge, made a surprise appearance. This creative promotional strategy demonstrates Smith’s remarkable ability to bridge generational divides, connecting with longtime supporters while engaging new audiences through contemporary platforms.
Album promises depth and diversity
Based on a True Story appears poised to deliver a multifaceted listening experience that reflects Smith’s personal and artistic journey. The tracklist suggests a blend of introspective moments, celebratory anthems, and the charismatic delivery that has defined Smith’s musical identity throughout his career.
The album structure includes several interludes titled “The Reverend,” suggesting a thematic throughline that may provide narrative cohesion to the collection. These sermon-styled segments appear strategically placed, potentially offering philosophical context for the surrounding musical explorations.
Complete tracklist reveals musical journey
The album’s full tracklist showcases Smith’s ambitious creative vision:
Int. Barbershop Day ft. DJ Jazzy Jeff & Simone
You Lookin’ for Me? The Reverend (Rave Sermon)
Rave in the Wasteland
Bulletproof ft. Jac Ross Hard Times (Smile) ft. Teyana Taylor
Beautiful Scars ft. Big Sean and OBanga
Tantrum ft. Joyner Lucas
First Love ft. India Martinez and Marcin
Make It Look Easy
The Reverend (YCMI Sermon)
You Can Make it ft. Fridayy and Sunday Service
Work of Art ft. Russ and Jaden
The Reverend (WOA Sermon)
As Smith embarks on this significant creative renaissance, listeners await the full expression of how his life experiences and artistic growth throughout the intervening years have shaped his musical perspective. With his distinctive blend of accessibility, authenticity, and creative ambition, Based on a True Story seems positioned to resonate deeply with audiences while reinforcing Smith’s status as a multifaceted cultural icon whose influence spans decades and artistic disciplines.
