Will Smith is a man of many talents, as evidenced by his illustrious career as an actor, rapper, and film producer, but he’s also very good at playing an instrument.
The Fresh Prince shocked fans on Thursday (June 27) when he uploaded a video on Instagram showing off his masterful piano skills.
The footage captures the 55-year-old playing some emotional chords on a grand piano at home, ending his rousing performance with his customary sweep.
The clip was met with widespread praise in the comments section, with many fans unaware of Smith’s piano playing.
“Didn’t know he could play piano. Not surprised. But never ceases to be surprising,” one person wrote, while another jokingly asked: “Why do you have to be able to do everything bro? For Let’s leave some bruh [crying face emoji]”.
Others pointed out that the Oscar winner had previously shown off his nimble fingers on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Michel, playing Beethoven’s “Für Elise” on piano in an episode of the hit show.
Will Smith’s caption revealed that the video is a promotional video for his new single You Can Make It, a collaboration with singer Worry and the Sunday Service Choir, who are famous for their work with Kanye West famous for their cooperation.
“Music has stayed with me in my darkest moments – inspiring me and helping me grow. I humbly hope that it does the same for you and brings you all the joy and light you deserve,” he wrote.
“You Can Do It opens at midnight. Great to be performing live at the #betawards on Sunday.
“You Can Make It” is an uplifting gospel-themed anthem that celebrates perseverance during tough times, featuring the same piano chords Smith plays in the video above.
The song also features the heavenly vocals of Vory and the Sunday Service Choir, as well as the inspirational rhymes of Fresh Prince.
Smith channels the voice of his inner pastor: “The darker the hell you have to endure, the brighter the heaven you enjoy/The harder you fall, the higher you fly/When the devil closes a door, God opens another window.
He also seemed to reference the backlash he faced after slapping Chris Rock at the 2022 Oscars: “Trust me, they tried to bleed Will Smith / In the rearview mirror, I see adversity is a gift / To lift me higher, the gift takes faith/so dry your eyes and you’ll find the way.
According to previous reports, Will Smith will perform the song for the first time at the 2024 BET Awards on Sunday (June 30).
“You Can Make It” is the second piece of music he has released in recent weeks, following his collaboration with dancehall legend Sean Paul, “Light Em Up,” which was featured on his latest film Bad Boys: Ride or Die On the soundtrack.