Jay Z And Kendrick Influenced Will Smith’s New Album

Will Smith publicly credited hip hop icons Jay-z and Kendrick Lamar for influencing his new album which will be dropping this Friday, March 28.

The album, “Based on a True Story,’ ends Smith’s twenty-year hiatus from music.

Evidently, following his Oscar controversy, Smith chose introspection over retreat, and the result is 14 tracks in which he explores different facets of his musical journey.

Sitting down with Sway Calloway and Heather B on the ‘Sway in the Morning’s’ podcast, the actor talked about advice from hip hop legends helped with crafting the album.

He stated that Jay-Z advised him to embrace authenticity, saying, “Don’t fake your story,” and these words directly inspired the album’s title and thematic concern.

He also noted that Kendrick Lamar pushed him toward vulnerability with his straightforward advice to “just say that shit you always been f—ing scared to say,” which further encouraged him to dive deeper.

The Grammy winner describes the album as his “most musical offering” ever created, noting that each of the songs represent a part of his soul.

The soon-to-be released album features collaborations with Teyana Taylor, DJ jazzy, and Smith’s son Jaden smith. Jac Rose and Kanye West’s Sunday service choir also make appearances.

Smith’s faith take centre stage in this musical rebirth as some of the tracks from the single like “you can make it,” has already topped the charts.

This album represents the first “season” of a trilogy Smith plans before the year 2025 ends. He has dubbed this first phase “Rave in the wasteland.”

At 56, Will Smith has decided to reframe his challenges as opportunities for growth. He reveals that he found inspirations from his grandmother, Nelson Mandela and Burthist Pema.

Summer Tour

In a surprising move, Smith will embark on his first-ever headline tour this summer, and the performances will showcase different chapters of his life and journey as an artist.

The tour begins June 25 at Morocco’s Mawazine festival after which European dates will be communicated with the final show in Paris scheduled for early September.

Classic songs like “Miami” and “Summertime” will be mixed with new songs that atre soon to be rel;eased for the audience to enjoy.

Smith’s Hollywood career continues to thrive alongside his musical renaissance as several film projects also await, including sequels like “Hancock” and “I Am Legend.”

The multitalented star exudes confidence about this new chapter of his life. “This is about to be the greatest creative run of my entire career,” he declares.

It’s clear that he is excited about the upcoming ventures. “I have trouble sleeping at night, I’m so ready to go,” Smith confesses with characteristic energy.

The album’s track listing demonstrates a methodical approach as “The Reverend” appears in three tracks, functioning as thematic breaks in musical sections.

Smith’s musical rebirth is more than just a resurgence. It signifies change via introspection and embracing life’s obstacles.

As Friday’s release approaches, fans can anticipate hearing Smith’s evolution firsthand. The project promises authenticity from an artist who’s found renewed purpose.