Will Smith debuted his new song at the BET Awards. Will Smith made a triumphant return to the spotlight at the 2024 BET Awards in Los Angeles, marking his first major public appearance since the controversial incident at the 2022 Academy Awards. The 55-year-old Hollywood icon took the stage to perform his new song “You Can Make It” in what was a highly anticipated and emotionally charged moment.
Following the backlash and subsequent ban from attending the Oscars for a decade after slapping Chris Rock live on television, Smith’s performance at the BET Awards was a significant moment of redemption and reflection. The audience witnessed a rare live performance from the renowned actor, who stood amidst an apocalyptic setting, encircled by fire and with a symbolic sun rising behind him.
In a powerful opening statement to the crowd, Smith conveyed a message of resilience and hope:
“I don’t know who needs to hear this right now, but whatever’s going on in your life, I’m here to tell you, you can make it.”
These words set the tone for his performance, which was a blend of heartfelt lyrics and soul-stirring melodies.
The song itself, co-created with collaborator Kirk Franklin, carried profound messages of overcoming adversity and finding strength in the face of challenges. Lyrics such as “The darker the hell you gotta endure, the brighter the heaven you get to enjoy” resonated deeply with the audience, reflecting Smith’s personal journey of resilience.
Accompanying Smith on stage were singer-songwriter Fridayy and the gospel choir Sunday Service, positioned on a raised platform above him. The inclusion of Kirk Franklin, who also delivered a stirring rap during the performance, emphasized themes of redemption and spiritual growth. Franklin assured the audience that no one remains in a “bad chapter forever,” echoing the sentiments of Smith’s song.
As the performance reached its crescendo, Smith closed with a poignant reminder: “We are not being punished, we are forged. Dance in your darkest moments.” These words encapsulated the overarching theme of his song – that challenges are not setbacks but opportunities for personal evolution and growth.
Prior to the BET Awards, Smith had teased the release of “You Can Make It” with a heartfelt message on social media. Sharing a video of himself playing the piano, he expressed how music had been a constant source of solace and inspiration during his darkest moments. His humility and sincerity resonated with fans, underscoring the therapeutic power of music in his life and potentially in the lives of his listeners.
Smith’s career trajectory, from his breakthrough role in the 1990s sitcom “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” to becoming a Grammy-winning rapper alongside DJ Jazzy Jeff, has been marked by numerous highs and challenges. His journey to reclaim his narrative and use his platform to inspire others was evident at the BET Awards, where his performance was not just a musical showcase but a testament to resilience and personal growth.
Will Smith’s return to the spotlight at the 2024 BET Awards was a poignant moment of redemption and reflection. Through his performance of “You Can Make It,” he not only showcased his musical talents but also conveyed messages of hope, resilience, and spiritual growth. His presence on stage was a reminder that adversity can be transformative and that through darkness, there is the potential for personal and spiritual enlightenment. As Smith continues to navigate the complexities of fame and personal growth, his music remains a beacon of light and inspiration for fans worldwide.
