Will Smith is back. The actor and rapper from Philadelphia released Based on a True Story on Friday (March 28), his first album since 2005’s Lost and Found.
Smith holds nothing back on this album, addressing topics such as his infamous slap to Chris Rock at the 2022 Oscars and the constant rumors surrounding his relationship with his wife, Jada Pinkett-Smith. “It took a lot, I’m back on top, they’ll have to get used to it / I won’t stop, my sh*t keeps hitting even if they don’t nominate me / My personal life with my wife, don’t get involved, it’s complicated,” he raps on “You Lookin’ For Me?”
Smith uses the opening track “Int. Barbershop – Day” to set the tone for the project, which consists of a conversation between various people discussing the different narratives that have marked his career. “I heard he won the Oscar but had to give it back / And you know they only made him do that because he’s black,” one person says. Another comments in reference to the slap to Chris Rock: “Him and Jada are crazy, girl, what are you talking about? / You better keep his wife’s name out of your mouth.”
The conversation continues to touch on topics such as Smith’s temporary “cancellation” and how some will never forgive him for his actions. (The artist ended up receiving a 10-year ban from the Oscars for slapping Rock and telling him “keep my wife’s name out of your damn mouth” after the comedian made a joke about Pinkett-Smith and G.I. Jane). Since then, Smith has resigned from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and has expressed remorse towards Rock for slapping him on stage.
Earlier this week, the 56-year-old actor told the Associated Press that he is “trying to be the best human being possible, and I’m going to accept whatever comes with that.” Before diving into the production of the new album, Smith revealed that he called Jay-Z and Kendrick Lamar for advice on how he should make his comeback to the rap world. Based on a True Story was released on Friday.
The album is a reflection of Smith’s journey in the entertainment industry, from his early days as a rapper to his successful acting career. He addresses the highs and lows of fame, the struggles of maintaining a personal life in the public eye, and the pressure to constantly prove himself in the industry.
One of the standout tracks on the album is “The Comeback,” where Smith reflects on his hiatus from music and his return to the spotlight. “I took a break, I had to find my way / But now I’m back, I’m here to stay / They said I fell off, but I’m still on top / I’m the king of the game, I’ll never stop,” he raps.
Another notable track is “Family Business,” where Smith opens up about his relationship with his wife and children. He acknowledges the challenges of balancing his career and family life, but also expresses his love and gratitude for his family. “I’m a husband, I’m a father, I’m a son / I’m a brother, I’m a friend, I’m a king / And I’ll do anything for my family / They’re the reason I do everything,” he raps.
Based on a True Story also features collaborations with other artists, including Jay-Z, Kendrick Lamar, and J. Cole. The album showcases Smith’s versatility as a rapper, with tracks ranging from upbeat and catchy to introspective and emotional.
In an interview with Billboard, Smith shared that he wanted to make an album that was “authentic and true to who I am.” He also expressed his desire to inspire and uplift others through his music. “I want to make music that makes people feel good, that makes them feel like they can conquer the world,” he said.
Based on a True Story is a testament to Smith’s resilience and determination to succeed in both the music and film industries. It’s a powerful comeback for the multi-talented artist, and fans are excited to see what he has in store for the future.