Gerald Matzka/Getty Images for Sony Pictures
Will Smith is a many of many talents, as evidenced in his decorated career as an actor, rapper and film producer — but he’s also pretty adept at playing a certain musical instrument.
The Fresh Prince stunned fans on Thursday (June 27) by uploading a video on Instagram of him showing off his polished piano skills.
The clip captures the 55-year-old playing some emotive chords on a grand piano inside his home, ending his stirring performance with a customary sweep of the keys.
The footage was met with widespread praise in the comments section, with many fans unaware of Smith’s piano chops.
“Did not know he played piano. Not surprised. But never ceases to amaze,” one person wrote, while another jokingly asked: “Why you gotta be able to do everything bro? save some for us bruh [crying face emoji].”
Others pointed out that the Oscar-winner previously flaunted his nimble fingers on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, playing Beethoven’s “Für Elise” on the piano during an episode of the hit show.
Will Smith’s caption revealed that the video was promo for his new single, “You Can Make It,” a collaboration with singer Vory and the Sunday Service Choir, who are best known for their work with Kanye West.
“Through some of my darkest moments, music has always been there for me – to lift me and help me grow. It’s my humble wish that it can do the same for you and bring you all the joy and light you deserve,” he wrote.
“‘You Can Make It’ drops at midnight. Excited to perform it live Sunday at the #betawards.”
An uplifting gospel-themed ode to persevering through tough times, “You Can Make It” features the same piano chords that Smith plays in the above video.
The track also features heavenly vocals from Vory and the Sunday Service Choir, alongside motivational rhymes from the Fresh Prince.
Channeling his inner pastor, Smith raps: “The darker the Hell you gotta endure, the brighter the Heaven you get to enjoy/ The harder the fall, the higher you soar/ God opens a window when the Devil closes a door.”
He also appears to reference the backlash he faced after slapping Chris Rock at the 2022 Oscars: “Believe me, they tried to bleed Will Smith/ In the rearview I see adversity was the gift/ To lift me higher, gifts requires faith/ So dry your eyes, and then you’ll find the way.”
As previously reported, Will Smith will perform the song for the first time at the 2024 BET Awards on Sunday (June 30).
“You Can Make It” marks his second music release in recent weeks following “Light Em Up,” a collaboration with dancehall legend Sean Paul that appears on the soundtrack to his latest film Bad Boys: Ride or Die.
