In recent years, Will Smith has become something of a polarising figure. After stepping away for several years, Smith recently returned to the spotlight to star in Bad Boys: Ride or Die. And now he’s back with music.
After two decades away from music, the actor-rapper is dropping his new album Based On A True Story on March 28.
Taking to Instagram, he revealed the tracklist alongside the album’s cover art. He’s rocking a red Philadelphia Phillies cap, a matching jacket, and baggy jeans—classic ’90s Smith, minus the squeaky-clean image.
“It’s OFFICIAL!! My new album Based On A True Story drops March 28. TWO WEEKS!! Hit that presave. Been working on this project for a minute and I’m itchin’ to get it out to y’all,” he posted.
It’s his first album since 2005’s Lost And Found, where he fired back at critics and flexed about his career moves. Nearly 20 years later, things have changed. Smith has gone from box office king to internet punchline to a man on a redemption arc. On ‘Based on a True Story’ he will be turning that rollercoaster into music, with the album structured as a series of “episodes.”
The 14-track project includes previously released singles ‘Beautiful Scars,’ ‘You Can Make It,’ ‘Work Of Art’ (featuring Jaden and Russ), and ‘Tantrum’ (with Joyner Lucas). Other guests include Teyana Taylor, Jac Ross, and OBanga. DJ Jazzy Jeff will also make an appearance on the record.
Outside of music, Smith recently teamed up with Doechii to recreate the viral ‘Anxiety’ dance, throwing it back to his Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air days. Whether this album is a genuine return to rap or just another turn in his quest for redemption remains to be seen. One thing is for sure though, people are going to have a lot of opinions.
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