March 31, 2025: Will Smith has shared the guidance he received from two hip-hop icons, Jay-Z and Kendrick Lamar, before releasing his new album, Based on a True Story. In a recent interview with People, Smith explained how both legends influenced his approach to returning to the music scene.
Jay-Z, known for his authenticity, advised Smith to “not fake your story,” urging him to stay true to his own narrative. This advice inspired the album’s title. He also warned Smith against trying to emulate younger rappers, encouraging him to embrace his own experiences instead of imitating others.
On the other hand, Kendrick Lamar’s advice was equally bold and empowering. Lamar urged Smith to “say that s— you’ve always been f—— scared to say.” Smith described the advice as both intimidating and liberating, enabling him to create an album that reflects his true self without any pretense.
Based on a True Story marks Smith’s first full-length album in nearly two decades, following Lost and Found in 2005. The 14-track collection features collaborations with DJ Jazzy Jeff, Teyana Taylor, and Jac Ross, and it touches on personal topics, including Smith’s controversial Oscars slap of comedian Chris Rock in 2022. The album’s first two songs directly address the incident. Smith hopes that this project will encourage others to be authentic and honest, just as he has done with this musical return.