by Will Smith is back, and he’s bringing that legendary presence with him this time. His new single, “Beautiful Scars,” featuring Big Sean and OBanga, isn’t just another comeback track – it’s a statement. Debuting live at an exclusive iHeartRadio event on January 29, 2025, the record has already set the streets and social media on fire. But it’s the Matrix-inspired music video that’s got everyone talking.
For years, fans joked about how Smith turned down the role of Neo in The Matrix – but now, he’s rewriting history. In the stunning video, Smith finally steps into the role, delivering a performance that blends action and self-reflection while plunging into the choices that shape us. Big Sean takes on the role of Morpheus, guiding Smith through a dreamlike cityscape filled with neon lights, slow-motion fight sequences, and, of course, the iconic red and blue pills. But this isn’t just about an alternate Hollywood timeline – it’s a metaphor for life.
With sleek cinematography and mind-bending effects, the clip captures Smith as he faces his “shadow,” which is symbolic of his past mistakes, public scrutiny, and personal growth.
Will Smith announced the release of “Beautiful Scars” via Instagram, saying, “My big head has something to say! Beautiful Scars is out at midnight!!” The track, produced by OmArr and LeXoskeleton, laces moody piano keys with a bass-heavy beat, setting the stage for raw, introspective lyrics. Smith spits about resilience and redemption, while Big Sean delivers smooth yet hard-hitting bars on embracing the pain that shapes us. OBanga rounds it out with an emotionally charged hook that ties the theme together.
“The idea of ‘Beautiful Scars’ is just one of the things that really popped through for me as such a value to recognize that a difficulty, an adversity, a challenge, an obstacle is hard and painful in the moment but what you’re going through can turn out to be the greatest thing that has ever happened,” Smith told iHeart. “What starts out as an adversity can turn into a beautiful stepping stone.”
This isn’t just a one-off release; it’s the first glimpse into Smith’s upcoming album, “Based on a True Story,” set to drop in March 2025. It’s his first full-length project in over 20 years, and if “Beautiful Scars” is any indication, he’s stepping back into the booth with a message.
During the iHeartRadio interview, Smith also addressed an issue that has lingered since the infamous 2022 Oscars slap. After years of speculation about tension between him and Chris Rock, Smith revealed that they have reconciled and are on good terms.
“We talked, man. We handled it like grown men. I won’t lie; it took time,” he says. “But real growth means facing your mistakes, learning from them, and doing the work. I respect Chris, and we’re in a better place now.”
Whether you’re here for the gossip, bars, the visuals, or the more profound meaning, one thing’s clear: The Prince of Philly is back, and he’s got something to say.
