Will Smith is making a significant return to music with his upcoming album, ‘Based On A True Story,’ scheduled for release in March. This marks his first studio album since 2005’s ‘Lost and Found,’ which featured hits like “Switch” and “Party Starter.”
Will Smith First Album in Two Decades Set for March Release
In anticipation of the album, Smith has been steadily releasing new tracks over the past year. Notable among these is “Work Of Art,” a collaboration with Russ, and “TANTRUM,” featuring Joyner Lucas. Lucas, who honored Smith with the tribute track “WILL” in 2020, has been a frequent collaborator. In a 2023 Instagram post celebrating Smith’s birthday, Lucas hinted at a joint project, stating, “I never thought I’d ever meet you… to then you asking me to create a whole album with you.”
To coincide with the album announcement, Smith unveiled a new single titled “Beautiful Scars,” featuring Big Sean. The accompanying music video pays homage to the 1999 blockbuster ‘The Matrix,’ a film for which Smith famously declined the lead role. In the video, Smith is presented with the iconic red and blue pills, a central element of the original film’s plot. This creative choice reflects on past decisions and embraces the concept of “beautiful scars” that shape one’s journey.
Reflecting on his career and the lessons learned, Smith’s lyrics emphasize personal growth and resilience. The song encourages embracing life’s challenges and the marks they leave, suggesting that these experiences contribute to one’s strength and character.
Return to the Spotlight
This musical resurgence comes after a period of relative seclusion for Smith, following the widely publicized incident at the 2022 Oscars involving comedian Chris Rock. Since then, Smith has been gradually re-engaging with the public. In 2024, he starred alongside Martin Lawrence in ‘Bad Boys: Ride Or Die,’ the fourth installment of the action-comedy series. He also made a notable appearance at the 2025 Grammy Awards, paying tribute to the late Quincy Jones, whom he credited with changing his life “forever” through ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.’
Smith’s return to music signifies a new chapter in his multifaceted career. Fans eagerly await the release of ‘Based On A True Story,’ anticipating a blend of introspection and the charismatic energy that has long defined his work.