Will Smith’s First Album in 20 Years Is on the Way – And It’s Big
Will Smith is back in the booth, and this time, he’s bringing some serious lyrical fire. The Grammy-winning artist, Hollywood icon, and all-around cultural powerhouse has just dropped “Beautiful Scars” featuring Big Sean and Obanga. The track is the latest single from his highly anticipated album, Based On A True Story, set to release in March 2025. Yes, you read that right. Two decades after his last full-length project, the Fresh Prince is making a grand return to music, and from what we’ve heard so far, it’s going to be nothing short of iconic.
A Track That Hits Deep – Fame, Lessons, and Redemption
Produced by OmArr and LeXoskeleton, “Beautiful Scars” is more than just a song—it’s a confessional. Will Smith and Big Sean swap bars about the highs and lows of fame, the mistakes they’ve made, and how every scar tells a story of resilience. This isn’t just about flexing wealth or success; it’s about the battle wounds of life and the lessons they’ve left behind.
With lines reflecting on redemption, faith, and personal growth, Will Smith is showing a side of himself that’s raw, introspective, and deeply personal—far from the glossy, upbeat hits that first made him a household name. Big Sean, fresh off the release of his book Go Higher, seamlessly adds his signature mix of motivation and reflection, proving why he remains one of hip-hop’s most thoughtful lyricists.
The Music Video – A Matrix-Inspired Wild Ride
In true Will Smith fashion, the music video is a cinematic spectacle. Directed by Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah (the duo behind Bad Boys 4), it plays on the iconic Matrix aesthetic. Big Sean gives Will the classic Blue Pill or Red Pill choice, but because this is Will Smith we’re talking about, he hilariously takes both. What follows is an all-out action-packed sequence—karate fights, gun battles, and Hollywood-level VFX—all intertwined with real behind-the-scenes movie magic.
For longtime fans, this is an Easter egg moment. Will was originally offered the role of Neo in The Matrix but turned it down (a decision he has openly joked about over the years). This video gives a playful nod to that history while delivering some serious visual entertainment.
A Gospel No.1, A Viral Performance, and an Album Worth Waiting For
Will Smith’s return to music hasn’t just been about nostalgic throwbacks. His recent gospel hit “You Can Make It” featuring Fridayy and Sunday Service Choir skyrocketed to No.1 on the Billboard Gospel Airplay Chart. This marks his first chart-topper since “Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It”—proving that the man’s still got it. His live debut of the song at the BET Awards 2024—complete with real flames and a fiery stage—was nothing short of legendary.
Then came “Work of Art”, another track that showcased his ability to blend storytelling with spectacle. Featuring his son Jaden and rapper Russ, the music video turned a grand European-style museum into a dance-fueled visual masterpiece.
With all this momentum, it’s no wonder fans are hyped for Based On A True Story.
Big Sean’s Book and Philanthropy – More Than Just Music
Big Sean isn’t just dropping fire verses. He recently released his book Go Higher: Five Practices for Purpose, Success, and Inner Peace, an interactive guide to mental wellness and self-acceptance. All proceeds from book sales until the end of February are being donated to victims of the Los Angeles wildfires—a move that solidifies his commitment to both his community and his own personal growth.
It’s clear that both Will Smith and Big Sean are in a new phase of their careers. They’re not just making music for the charts—they’re making music with meaning.
Album Pre-Save & Tour Rumors
With Based On A True Story arriving in March 2025, speculation is already building about a potential Will Smith tour. If his sold-out San Diego shows in December were anything to go by, the demand is definitely there. He’s already rocked stages at international festivals like Rock in Rio, Mad Cool (Madrid), and MDLBEAST Soundstorm (Riyadh), so a full-blown comeback tour wouldn’t be surprising.
For now, fans can pre-save the album and prepare for what could be one of the most unexpected yet exciting musical comebacks of the decade.