BHM Spotlight: Will Smith

Photo: Getty

February is the special month in which we honor and celebrate African-Americans, past and present, for all their accomplishments in a variety of fields: music, television, film, fashion, business and so much more. Here at Glambergirlblog we want to do things a little bit different. Everyday throughout this month we will spotlight some of the glamberous African-Americans in the entertainment industry.

You know how it goes; “West Philadelphia, born and raised,” Will Smith also known as Mr. Philadelphia has successfully transformed himself from a young music artist to a Hollywood leading man.

As a boy, Will gained the nickname “prince” do to his charming ways. At the age of sixteen, Will met a DJ by the name of Jeff Townes and the two soon became friends. By this time Will had found his voice in rapping and teamed up with Jeff to become the music due DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince. DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince was a different kind of rap duo because all of their lyrics were positive which was not common during that time.

Although Will had a successful music career and continued to work on music throughout his career; he decided to try out another talent, acting. In the early 1990’s Will starred in “The Fresh Prince of Bel Air,” the very popular television family show about Will moving to Bel Air from Philadelphia with his Uncle Phil and his family. From there the acting bug stuck for win. He went on to star in roles ranging from the very small (“Six Degrees of Separation” and “Where The Day Takes You”) to the very large (“Ali,” “Bad Boys,” “Men in Black,” “Seven Pounds,” and “The Pursuit of Happyness.”)

Will Smith is an entrepreneur, father, husband, established actor, political activist and he sure makes me happy to be from Philadelphia!

Fun Fact About Will Smith: Will is not short for William; Will was born Willard Christopher Smith Jr.