Will Smith set the 2024 BET Awards stage ablaze with a powerful performance of his latest single, “You Can Make It,” on Sunday night, June 30. The electrifying debut featured the Sunday Service Choir, Kirk Franklin, and Chandler Moore, creating a memorable and dynamic presentation.

Smith, a four-time Grammy winner, kicked off the live performance standing in the middle of a fire pit that resembled flowing lava. His opening rap set an inspirational tone:

“The darker the hell you gotta endure / The brighter the heaven you get to enjoy / The harder the fall, the higher you soar / God opens a window when the devil closes the door.”

Continuing with heartfelt verses, Smith, 55, reflected on overcoming adversity:

“Believe me, they tried to bleed Will Smith / In the rearview, I see adversity was the gift / To lift me higher gifts requires faith / So dry your eyes and then you’ll find a way,” Smith rapped. “Out of the madness, out of the maze / And out of the saddest into the rays / The darkest of nights turns into day / And every storm runs out of rain.”

Following his solo rap, the Sunday Service Choir, along with Fridayy and Franklin, joined Smith on stage for a rousing, soul-stirring performance. The blazing stage effect concluded with what appeared to be rain, symbolically extinguishing the flames.

Smith wrapped up the performance with a motivational message:

“Nobody gets an easy ride / We all have a cross to bear / But there’s wisdom in that fire / And every moment of your life is a brand-new opportunity / We are not being punished, we are being forged / Dance in your darkest moments.”

This powerful and uplifting performance marked a significant highlight of the 2024 BET Awards, showcasing Smith’s resilience and his ability to inspire through music.