Empire State Review Team 
Will Smith Returns to Music with New Album and Tour Announcement
LOS ANGELES – Renowned actor Will Smith is set to make a notable return to the music scene after a two-decade hiatus, revealing plans to release a new album. The project, titled Based On A True Story, is scheduled to drop on March 28, 2025.
Album Announcement
In an enthusiastic announcement on his Instagram account, Smith expressed his excitement by declaring, “It’s OFFICIAL!! My new album Based On A True Story drops March 28. TWO WEEKS!! Hit that presave. Been working on this project for a minute and I’m itchin’ to get it out to y’all.”
Upcoming Tour
Alongside his album release, Smith will embark on his first-ever headlining tour, marking a significant achievement in his musical career. The tour will kick off in June, starting in Rabat, Morocco. In his announcement, he remarked, “All these years, I’ve NEVER done a headline tour and I can’t wait to see you guys!!”
A Look Back: Will Smith’s Musical Journey
Before attaining international fame as an actor, Smith gained recognition as a musician. He began his career in the late 1980s, rapping under the alias “Fresh Prince” alongside DJ Jazzy Jeff. The duo produced several hits, including the classic tracks “Parents Just Don’t Understand” and “Summertime.”
His solo music career began with the release of Big Willie Style in 1997, followed by Willennium in 1999, Born to Reign in 2002, and Lost and Found in 2005. After stepping away from music to focus on acting, his return signifies not only a revival of his musical talents but also an opportunity to connect with audiences in a new way.
Transition to Acting
After establishing his music career, Smith found success in television with the iconic series The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. This role paved the way for a prosperous film career, beginning with movies such as Made in America and Bad Boys.
His acting portfolio includes critically acclaimed projects like The Pursuit of Happyness, for which he starred alongside his son, Jaden Smith. Will Smith’s extensive filmography also features prominent titles such as I Am Legend, Focus, and King Richard, the latter earning him an Academy Award for Best Actor in 2022.
Recent Controversies
Despite his successes, Smith’s career has experienced challenges, notably during the 2022 Academy Awards when he made headlines after confronting comedian Chris Rock over an inappropriate joke involving his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. This incident sparked significant media attention and discussions about Smith’s actions and their implications on his career.
Now, as he prepares to merge his musical and theatrical talents once more, fans eagerly await the arrival of his new album and the opportunity to experience live performances. His return to music promises to be an exciting chapter in a storied career.
Source: Contributions from FOX News and Will Smith’s social media accounts.
