After stepping away from music for twenty years, Will Smith knew he had to return to rap with careful thought and honesty. With the music industry changing so fast, the Oscar-winning actor and hip-hop star wasn’t interested in releasing an album that felt out of touch or fake. That’s where two of the biggest names in rap, Jay-Z and Kendrick Lamar, came in to help. In a recent interview, Smith shared that these influential rappers gave him important advice that shaped his new album, “Based on a True Story,” which marks his long-awaited return to music.

He first reached out to Jay-Z, who knows a lot about staying relevant in the music scene. Jay-Z told him, “Be true to your story.” He encouraged Smith not to pretend to be like younger artists but to share his own experiences. This became the foundation for the album’s title, it’s all about Smith’s real-life experiences, presented honestly. Rather than chase after current trends, he focused on what makes his story unique, ensuring his comeback feels real and significant. Next, he spoke with Kendrick Lamar, a modern rap superstar known for his deep lyrics and storytelling skills.

While Smith didn’t go into specifics about Kendrick’s advice, it inspired him to push himself creatively and to take risks with his music. For Will Smith, this new album isn’t just a trip down memory lane; it’s a new beginning. With guidance from Jay-Z and Kendrick Lamar, he’s returning to music with authenticity and a fresh sense of purpose. Even after two decades away, with “Based on a True Story,” Will Smith shows that true artistry, rooted in genuine experiences, never goes out of style.

In a surprising turn of events, federal prosecutors have announced serious charges against Eugene Henley Jr., better known as “Big U.” He is a well-known figure linked to the Rollin’ 60s Crips gang and is now facing a total of 43 charges, including crimes like racketeering, wire fraud, embezzlement, and even murder. Big U was taken into federal custody on March 19 and is set to appear in court on April 8 in Los Angeles. The indictment reveals a troubling account of Big U’s alleged criminal activities. Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph McNally stated, “As the indictment alleges, Mr. Henley led a criminal enterprise that engaged in everything from murder to complicated schemes to steal money from taxpayers and a charity.”

This serious set of charges indicates that prosecutors are looking to secure a big conviction that could shake up organized crime in Los Angeles. Big U has been controversial in the hip-hop and street culture scene. Some people see him as a figure who has turned his life around and helps the community, while others have raised concerns about his connections to illegal activities. This indictment appears to back up long-standing suspicions from law enforcement, but it also opens up questions about his influence and the extent of his operations.

If found guilty, he could face a long prison sentence, which would significantly impact both his presence in the streets and his role in the cultural scene. Federal officials have clarified that disrupting criminal organizations is a top priority. McNally added, “Today’s charges against the leaders of this criminal group will make our neighborhoods in Los Angeles safer.” This case strongly conveys that no one is above the law. As news of this indictment spreads through the hip-hop community, discussions are now focused on its implications for society.