Will Smith has returned to the music scene with his new album, “Based on a True Story,” marking his first full-length release since 2005’s “Lost and Found.” Before embarking on this project, Smith sought guidance from industry titans Jay-Z and Kendrick Lamar to ensure his comeback resonated authentically with audiences.
Jay-Z’s Emphasis on Authenticity
In a candid interview on Sway in the Morning, Smith recounted his conversation with Jay-Z. He recalled Jay-Z advising, “Don’t fake your story.” Jay-Z elaborated, “You gotta say what’s true for you. You’ll be looking at the younger rappers and you want that to be true for you, but you don’t live like that.” This counsel profoundly influenced Smith, leading him to embrace his personal narrative wholeheartedly.
Kendrick Lamar’s Push for Vulnerability
Smith also reached out to Kendrick Lamar, who encouraged him to delve deeper into his emotions. Kendrick urged, “Say that s— you’ve always been f—— scared to say.” This advice resonated with Smith, compelling him to confront topics he had previously shied away from.
“Based on a True Story” features 14 tracks and includes collaborations with DJ Jazzy Jeff, Teyana Taylor, and Jac Ross. Notably, the album addresses pivotal moments in Smith’s life, including the widely publicized 2022 Oscars incident involving comedian Chris Rock. In the track “You Lookin’ for Me?” Smith raps, “Took a lot, I’m back on top / Y’all gon’ have to get acclimated / Won’t stop, my s— still hot / Even though I won’t get nominated.” This lyric reflects his resilience and determination to move forward despite past controversies.
The album’s release signifies a period of introspection and growth for Smith. By heeding the advice of Jay-Z and Kendrick Lamar, he has crafted a body of work that is both personal and relatable. Fans and critics alike are now witnessing a new chapter in Will Smith’s multifaceted career, one that embraces authenticity and emotional honesty.