Will Smith Returns to the Stage With New Song—and Fans Have a Lot of Thoughts About His Performance

Will Smith debuted his brand-new song at the 2024 BET Awards , and fans didn't hold back while sharing their opinions.

The actor and musical artist took the stage at the award show, which took place on June 30 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, to perform the new track called "You Can Make It" featuring Sunday Service and Fridayy .

Smith's emotional performance featured him rapping inside a ring of fire before he was joined by Sunday Service, Kirk Franklin and Fridayy. It ended with an enthusiastic standing ovation from the audience.

For the song's debut, Smith wore a gray and tan patterned blazer outfit as he showed off his musical talents, with the single a preview of his next album that’s reportedly in the works. The last time he released a full album was in 2005 when Lost and Found came out.

Fans of Smith cheered him on online as they shared their positive reactions to his new sound and live performance.

“Will Smith feat Sunday Service & Kirk Franklin love it!!,” wrote one fan via X , while someone else declared , "Will Smith they will never make me hate youuuuuu! #BETAwards ."

Another supportive comment read , “Folks tried to destroy Will Smith. But when you are covered nothing can break you. Congratulations Will smith on a number one movie and a incredible new song.”

Yet another X user shared , "Yasss Will Smith! He’s still got those rap skills This was also great messaging about redemption."

Still, others weren't sold on Smith's redemption song, with one X user writing , "So Will Smith assaulted Chris Rock now he’s singing gospel?" referencing the infamous Oscars slap in 2022.

Along with Smith, other big names performed at the BET Awards, with Megan Thee Stallion opening the show while Ice Spice , Tyla , YG Marley , and many more took the stage throughout the night. Actress Taraji P. Henson hosted the big event for the third time.

Smith's return to music might've been hinted at when he made a surprise appearance on stage at Coachella this year. The 55-year-old performed the title track for his 1997 film Men in Black as a surprise during J Balvin 's set, wearing his movie character's iconic costume while dancers dressed as fellow agents and aliens moved around on stage.

At the time, Smith didn't say anything about a possible new song, but fans of the star's music career are excited to hear what's next.

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