Will Smith Reveals Advice Given by Jay-Z and Kendrick Lamar Ahead of New Album: ‘Don’t Fake Your Story’

Will Smith Seeks Advice from Jay-Z and Kendrick Lamar Before Releasing New Album

Will Smith has recently disclosed insights gained from consulting Jay-Z and Kendrick Lamar as he prepares to launch his upcoming album. The celebrated actor and rapper, aged 56, shared during an interview on Sway in the Morning that seeking guidance from these prominent figures in the music industry was crucial before delving back into creating music for his new project, titled “Based on a True Story.”

Smith recounted the valuable advice he received from Jay-Z, where the influential rapper emphasised the importance of authenticity by advising Smith to “tell your story truthfully.” Jay-Z pointed out the disparity between the image often portrayed by younger rappers and the reality of Smith’s life, urging him to stay genuine to his own experiences and emotions.

Interestingly, Smith revealed that the counsel he received from Jay-Z had a profound impact on the album, ultimately inspiring its title. Furthermore, Kendrick Lamar, another heavyweight in the world of music, offered Smith similar guidance by encouraging him to address topics that he had previously shied away from discussing, pushing him to be bold and transparent in his storytelling.

The multi-talented artist expressed the intimidating yet liberating nature of being honest in his music creation process, highlighting the significance of staying true to oneself amidst the pressures of the industry. Smith stressed the importance of authenticity when crafting his music, urging fellow artists to create based on their genuine experiences rather than catering to popular expectations.

Amidst the anticipation surrounding the album’s release, Smith took to Instagram to share his excitement, revealing that the project had been a long time in the making. Having not released a full-length album since 2005’s “Lost and Found,” the new album features collaborations with various artists, including DJ Jazzy Jeff, Teyana Taylor, and Jac Ross, marking a significant return for Smith to the music scene.

The album’s themes touch on personal experiences, including references to a well-publicized altercation at the 2022 Oscars involving comedian Chris Rock. Smith incorporates these incidents into his music, using it as a platform to express his emotions and reflections, giving listeners a glimpse into his perspective on these events.

“Based on a True Story” is now available for audiences to experience, showcasing Smith’s introspective and candid approach to music-making. With his latest single, “Beautiful Scars,” already making waves, the album promises to be a raw and authentic reflection of Smith’s journey back into the music industry.

In conclusion, Will Smith’s candid revelations about seeking advice from Jay-Z and Kendrick Lamar offer a fascinating insight into his creative process and the personal growth that underpins his music. As fans eagerly anticipate the release of “Based on a True Story,” Smith’s commitment to authenticity serves as a testament to the power of honest storytelling in the realm of music.