About this album
Where they were
By the time 'Homebase' was released in July 1991, DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince had already achieved significant success with their earlier albums. This album came after their hit 'And in This Corner...' and showcased their evolution into a more polished pop-rap sound, solidifying Will Smith’s appeal as both a musician and emerging actor.
Why it matters
'Homebase' features the iconic track 'Summertime', which has become a cultural anthem and is celebrated for its nostalgic portrayal of summer experiences. The album reached number 4 on the Billboard 200 chart, highlighting its commercial success during the early '90s hip-hop boom.
Essential tracks
- "Summertime" — This track is a quintessential summer anthem that blends smooth lyrics with a laid-back production, embodying the carefree vibe of the season.
- "I’m All That" — Kicking off the album, this track showcases the duo's playful charisma and dynamic chemistry, setting the tone for the entire project.
- "Caught in the Middle (Love & Life)" — This song mixes storytelling with catchy hooks, illustrating the duo's versatility while addressing themes of love and personal growth.
Release Date
July 23, 1991
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 I’m All That 3:43
- 2 Summertime 4:30
- 3 The Things That U Do 4:56
- 4 This Boy Is Smooth 4:58
- 5 Ring My Bell 4:44
- 6 A Dog Is a Dog 4:29
- 7 Caught in the Middle (Love & Life) 4:21
- 8 Trapped on the Dance Floor 5:19
- 9 Who Stole the D.J. 4:50
- 10 You Saw My Blinker 4:14
- 11 Dumb Dancin’ 4:55
- 12 Summertime (reprise) 2:05
- 13 Ring My Bell (Mr. Lee’s radio mix) 4:04
