Will Smith is well-known for transforming himself. Transitioning from a Grammy-winning rap artist to a leading man in major box office hits, this versatile performer has been at the forefront of entertainment for many years. However, following a challenging phase marked by both personal and career disruptions, Smith is now revisiting his musical origins with an anticipated new album.
Inspired by Actual Events
, which he characterizes as his most reflective creation so far.
“It truly stems from my initial self-assessment,” Smith states.
Each track revolves around a facet of my personality that I either uncovered or wished to delve into, something I felt compelled to express. This album represents the most comprehensive musical presentation I have ever undertaken.”
This album, featuring collaborations with artists such as Big Sean, Teyana Taylor, DJ Jazzy Jeff, and his son Jaden Smith, represents Smith’s first studio release in almost two decades. It blends gospel tunes with introspective lyrics.
Inspired by Actual Events
serves as a testimony to Smith’s voyage of personal growth and fortitude.
One track in particular captures the essence of his message. “One of my favorite hooks on the album is J Cross singing, ‘I got the keys to heaven. But I earn them things in hell. I’ll give my life for something, but my soul just ain’t for sale,’” Smith shares. “I just love that concept. The keys to heaven are earned in hell. And it’s like when you’re going through something hard, it’s not because you’re bad or did something wrong. It’s because that’s how it is.”
Smith is no stranger to hardships. The aftermath of his infamous 2022 Oscar incident left his career, marriage, and reputation in a precarious position. Instead of retreating, he turned inward, using music as an outlet to process and express his emotions.
His reflections extend beyond music. Smith recalls seeking advice from legendary actor Denzel Washington during a particularly tough period in his 40s. “Early in my 40s, I went to Denzel. I was like, ‘D, I’m having a hard time over here, brother.’ He said, ‘Man, listen, it’s called the Funky 40s. Everybody has a hard time in their 40s. Don’t worry about it. But then you’ll get to the f*** it 50s.’ And I was like, ‘But I’m 42.’ He told me, ‘You’ll be alright, brother. You got it.’”
The wisdom from Washington, combined with influences from Tibetan Buddhist Pema Chödrön and historical figures like Nelson Mandela, helped Smith navigate adversity and channel it into his creative work.
“There’s a certain psychological and emotional fortitude that you cultivate from leaning into difficulty, not trying to run away,” Smith says. “I’ve come to some really beautiful answers for myself—my perception of God and reality.”
As Smith prepares to release
Based on a True Story
, he is also gearing up for his first-ever headline tour, which kicks off in June at the Mawazine festival in Morocco and wraps up in Paris in September. The tour will span multiple phases of his life and career, blending nostalgia with his new artistic direction.
In addition to his musical pursuits, Smith has multiple films in the pre-production stage, including
Fast and Loose
,
Hancock 2
,
I Am Legend 2
, and
Planes, Trains and Automobiles
But for the moment, he is completely engrossed in this fresh musical journey, convinced that his finest compositions are still ahead of him.
“This is about to be the greatest creative run of my entire career,” he declares. “The things that I’m about to do in music and cinema, and just artistic expression and exploration—it’s like, I can’t sleep at night. I’m so ready to go.”
