Will Smith announces new album 'Based on a True Story' after 20-year hiatus, out on March 28

Will Smith has officially confirmed that he is back in the music scene with a new album, Based on a True Story, which is scheduled to drop on March 28, 2025. The actor-turned-rapper broke the news on an episode of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where he announced that this will be his first album since his 2005 drop, Lost and Found.

Smith explained that the album is personal, depicting various stages of his life and career. Although he did not reveal any particular information on the tracklist or collaborations; he indicated that the music features elements of storytelling concerning actual experiences.

The news arrives at a time when most artists from previous decades have returned to music after years of hiatus, so Smith's return was a highlight in the industry.

Will Smith's early career in music established him before he transitioned into acting

Before his rise to fame as an actor, Smith performed as part of the hip-hop group DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince. The group became successful during the late 1980s and early 1990s with their singles Parents Just Don't Understand and Summertime.

The duo's success included a Grammy in 1989 for Best Rap Performance, becoming one of the first mainstream rap groups to experience critical and commercial success. Will Smith subsequently went solo, releasing records like Big Willie Style (1997) and Willennium (1999), which produced number-one singles in the form of Gettin' Jiggy Wit It and Miami.

His acting career prevailed over music, with lead performances in films such as Men in Black, The Pursuit of Happyness, and King Richard. Though he intermittently released songs over the intervening years, Lost and Found in 2005 continued to stand as his most recent full-length release until now.

The album will likely concentrate on his personal and professional life

While Will Smith has not announced a complete tracklist or production information, he said that Based on a True Story will draw from his personal life. Based on his history of using storytelling in music, the album is likely to touch on major experiences in his life, such as his Hollywood life and personal experiences.

His previous work has tended to alternate between energetic, radio-friendly songs and introspective material, and this recording can be expected to continue in this vein. It is unknown if Will Smith will be working with other performers or producers, although due to his membership in both the music and film industries, guest spots are a possibility.

The recording will likely appeal to both die-hard fans and a newer audience who are not aware of his early career as a musician.

Fans and the industry respond to news of his comeback to music

Reaction to Will Smith's announcement has been mixed, with some long-time fans reacting positively and others wondering how his music will integrate into today's hip-hop world. His comeback is occurring at a time when most legacy acts are making comebacks, so there is interest in how he will attack this effort following such a long hiatus.

Social media rumors have hypothesized the sound of the album, possible collaborations, and if Smith will tour. With the date looming just weeks away, anticipation for additional announcements continues to build.

How the album is received will indicate how well audiences are receiving artists who have put music on the back burner to pursue other careers.

The album represents a return to music after spending years pursuing an acting career

Will Smith's release of Based on a True Story 20 years later is an indicator that his artistic interests are changing. Although he has continued working in Hollywood, the project serves as an example of his passion to return to music.

The album’s reception will determine whether this is a one-time project or a long-term return to music. As the release date nears, fans will soon be able to listen to the new material and determine how Will Smith's sound has changed.

Whether it's a major hit or a passion project, Based on a True Story marks a new chapter in his career.

Edited by Tanisha Aggarwal

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