Will Smith is gearing up to make a musical comeback as he recently signed a new record deal.
Following his recent performance at the BET Awards, the multi-talented artist has joined the independent label SLANG, which is spearheaded by music executive Rene McLean, according to an exclusive report by Hollywood Reporter.
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SLANG’s lineup features other accomplished artists such as Grammy-winning producer-songwriter Camper and chart-topping hip-hop producer 30 Roc. The label also represents various up-and-coming talents, including rapper-singer Leaf, Flatbush hip-hop duo The Underachievers, Atlanta-based rapper Truththebull, artist-songwriter-producer Isaia Huron, and underground Atlanta rapper RY XP.
“I’m proud to lead SLANG’s efforts to partner with quality artists and invest in their growth, regardless of genre or where they are in their respective careers. In a quickly changing music industry, SLANG artists will be surrounded by a team of like-minded strategists who will stop at nothing to further their trajectory and help them meet their goals. Our commitment to culture comes first, and we consider our SLANG roster family,” McLean said in a statement.
At the BET Awards on June 30, Will Smith delivered an inspiring performance of his song “You Can Make It” while surrounded by a circle of fire. The Sunday Service Choir and R&B singer Friday provided musical accompaniment for the performance, which took place amidst pouring rain. The powerful rendition also included gospel star Kirk Franklin sharing words of courage and wisdom on stage.
In 1987, Will Smith made his debut in the music industry with the release of his first album, “Rock the House,” alongside the rap duo DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince. The duo achieved success with popular tracks such as “Summertime” and “Parents Just Don’t Understand,” the latter of which earned them the first-ever rap Grammy Award in 1989. Smith later pursued a solo career and found chart-topping success with upbeat hits like “Wild Wild West” and “Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It,” the latter of which also earned him a Grammy Award.