By Stephanie Martin, ChurchLeaders
Will Smith, an actor and artist with roots in R&B and hip hop, is now experiencing success with his first Christian/gospel single.
“You Can Make It,” which Smith co-wrote, debuted at No. 3 on two Billboard charts: Hot Gospel Songs and Gospel Digital Song Sales.
From its June 28 release through July 4, the faith-based single had 665,000 official streams in the United States. It has also made a quick impact in radio, debuting at No. 28 on the Gospel Airplay chart.
During the BET Awards show on June 30, Smith performed “You Can Make It” with Christian musicians Kirk Franklin, Chandler Moore, and the Sunday Service Choir. Afterward, Smith posted, “I have returned Home! The comeback is always bigger than the setback.”
Will Smith: Music Can Bring ‘Joy and Light’
Will Smith, 55, had been under the radar following his infamous slap of comedian Chris Rock during the 2022 Oscars telecast. Now, he said, he’s heading for the “next chapter of my creative life.”
Before “You Can Make It” was released, Smith posted, “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.”
Speaking to Billboard about his foray into Christian music, Smith said he was “really talking to myself” as he wrote the song. Seeing people “resonate with the intention gives me a clear North Star” for what’s ahead, he added.
Although Smith was raised Baptist and has talked about the impact of his Christian faith, he has dabbled in other belief systems, including Hinduism and Indian astrology. In 2021, Smith said, “You can’t get where I get if you don’t love the Lord.”
‘You Can Make It’ Offers Hope-Filled Message
In his new single, Will Smith first addresses life’s trials and hardships, which can lead to feelings of despair and hopelessness:
From the flames that you walk through
But no one to talk to…
Tryna heal but the battle’s uphill
And if God is for real
You just wonder if he’ll listen
So many tests for the flesh
Exhausted, gasping to catch your breath
Walking through the valley of the shadow of death
And when you think you’ve got nothing left
Keep going.
First published July 11, 2024
