After a 20-year hiatus from music, Will Smith is preparing to release his new album Based on a True Story, set for release on March 28. This 14-track project marks Smith’s first full album since Lost and Found in 2005, sparking interest among fans.
Collaborations highlight the album’s creative direction
The album features collaborations with several artists, including DJ Jazzy Jeff, Teyana Taylor, and Jac Ross. Other contributors include Big Sean, OBanga, Joyner Lucas, India Martinez, Marcin, Russ, Jaden Smith, Fridayy, and the Sunday Service Choir. These partnerships reflect Smith’s ongoing industry connections and willingness to explore new musical styles.
Singles build momentum for the album’s release
Ahead of the full album drop, Smith has released several singles, including “First Love,” “Beautiful Scars,” “TANTRUM,” “Work of Art,” and “You Can Make It.” The latter, featuring Fridayy and the Sunday Service Choir, reached number one on Billboard’s Gospel Airplay Chart, marking Smith’s first number one single since his 1998 hit “Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It.”
Leveraging social media to engage audiences
Smith is one on the most successful rappers of all time.
His debut solo album Big Willie Style released November 25, 1997, by Columbia Records is certified 9x Platinum for sales surpassing 9 million copies.
As for the new album, his first release in the streaming era, he has used digital platforms to promote the album, including a TikTok video from March 14. The video, which recreated a scene from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air with co-star Tatyana Ali, included a surprise appearance by Doechii, whose song powers a viral dance challenge. This creative strategy highlights Smith’s ability to connect with both longtime fans and newer audiences.
A varied listening experience
Based on a True Story promises a diverse range of songs that reflect Smith’s personal and artistic journey. The tracklist includes introspective moments and anthemic tracks, with several interludes titled “The Reverend,” suggesting a thematic link throughout the album.
Full tracklist
- 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)
