Will Smith is making his long-awaited return to music. On Friday (March 14), the Oscar-winning actor and rapper announced Based On A True Story, his first album in two decades, set for release on March 28, 2025.
The album, which serves as a follow-up to his 2005 project Lost and Found, boasts an impressive lineup of guest features, including longtime collaborator DJ Jazzy Jeff, Teyana Taylor, Russ, Jac Ross, and his son Jaden Smith.
To build anticipation, Smith leaned into nostalgia by reuniting with his Fresh Prince of Bel-Air co-star Tatyana Ali. The two joined rising rap star Doechii for a Fresh Prince-inspired dance trend set to Doechii’s hit song “Anxiety.” The moment, which quickly went viral on social media, blended old-school charm with contemporary hip-hop energy.
Smith’s return to music marks a full-circle moment for the multi-hyphenate, who first rose to fame in the late ’80s as one-half of DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince. His last major musical release came in 2005, though he has sporadically dropped singles over the years.
With Based On A True Story, Smith appears to be embracing both his past and present, promising a mix of introspective storytelling and feel-good anthems. Fans can expect more teasers and surprises leading up to the album’s release.
Are you excited for Will Smith’s musical comeback? Let us know! 🎶🔥
