Will Smith, a Grammy-winning rapper and iconic actor, opens up about his artistic evolution and the introspective themes in his upcoming project, *Based On A True Story*. He reflects on his journey of self-discovery and how past experiences shape his creativity. The conversation touches on his career beginnings in Philly, the transformative power of music, and the balance of fame and personal identity. Discover how Will navigates nostalgia while embracing new challenges that define his artistry today.
Will Smith is evolving from upbeat music to a more introspective style, reflecting his journey of self-discovery and healing.
His new project, 'Based On A True Story,' emphasizes the importance of collaboration with artists like Common and Nas to enrich his music.
Will's willingness to explore a wider array of emotions in his lyrics aims to foster deeper connections with his audience.
Deep dives
A New Artistic Direction
Will Smith is transitioning from his traditionally upbeat music style to a more complex and introspective approach. His latest project, which is based on a true story, reflects his journey of self-discovery and healing over recent years. This shift has opened him up to express deeper emotions and vulnerability in his work, allowing for a more authentic connection with his audience. As he prepares to release this music in three parts, he demonstrates a significant evolution in his artistry that promises to resonate with listeners.
Reflections on Past Experiences
Throughout the conversation, Will shares pivotal moments from his career, including his initial meeting with music and television icon Quincy Jones. This meeting was a critical turning point that led to the creation of 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air' and solidified his path in the entertainment industry. Will recalls how Quincy's encouragement and vision helped shape his early career and the importance of mentorship in artistic development. Reliving these experiences reveals the deep-rooted connections that have influenced his creative journey.
Collaborations and Creative Growth
Will discusses his collaborative efforts with renowned artists like Common and Nas, elaborating on how these partnerships have enriched his music. The creation of tracks such as 'The Rain' and 'Just Cruisin'' illustrates how collaboration can lead to innovative expressions and broaden an artist's perspective. He emphasizes the value of sharing ideas and learning from other artists to craft music that reflects personal and universal experiences. This collaborative spirit is evident in his new project, where inclusion of diverse influences plays a significant role in shaping its sound.
Embracing Vulnerability in Music
The podcast delves into how Will is now allowing himself to explore a fuller spectrum of emotions through his music. Previously, he had focused predominantly on joyful and upbeat songs, but now he intends to incorporate themes of sadness and introspection as well. This newfound openness is intended to resonate with listeners on a deeper level, as he aims to convey profound life lessons and personal struggles. By being vulnerable in his lyrics, Will hopes to connect with others who may share similar feelings and experiences.
The Future of His Musical Journey
Looking ahead, Will expresses excitement about embarking on a new phase of his artistic career, recognizing the potential for ongoing evolution in his music. He plans to release his current project as a series of seasons, similar to a television show, which allows him to unfold his narrative over time. This innovative approach signifies a departure from traditional album releases, aiming for a more serialized storytelling experience. As he prepares to headline his first tour, Will is eager to share this new music and connect with fans both nostalgically and through fresh material.
Big Willie is back! He's traded his larger than life, excessively positive raps for something more dark and complex but equally inspiring. Anyone following Will’s trajectory the last handful of years, or those who've read his wonderful autobiography knows he’s been on a journey of self-discovery and healing. That’s left him wide open to be a bit of a different artist than he’s been in the past. It also drew him back into music. Will’s new project Based On A True Story will be coming out in three parts this year with part one dropping in March.
Justin Richmond discusses where Will's at as a creator on this new album, and goes through his decades long career in music, which dates back in his teen years in Philly.
You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite Will Smith songs HERE.
