From the original Fresh Prince of Bel-Air to Peacock’s Bel-Air reimagining, this franchise has always mixed storytelling with undeniable music careers. Whether it’s an actor whose vocals helped define late-90s R&B, producing Grammy-winning icons, or rising stars shaping a new era of sound, the Bel-Air universe has consistently been home to artists who do both, and do it well.
This week’s Gentlemen’s Soundtrack spotlights the actors of the Bel-Air world who are just as impactful in the recording booth as they are on screen.
Jabari Banks: No Trouble
Before stepping into the role of Will, Jabari Banks was already rooted in music, penning songs that highlight his effortless cool and lyrical confidence. No Trouble is a testament to his sonic identity, laid-back, stylish, youthful, but with the same bold energy that he brings to the character who redefined his career.
As he continues expanding into film, fashion, and music, No Trouble stands as a reminder: Banks is building a multi-hyphenate legacy of his own.
Coco Jones: On Sight
When Bel-Air premiered, Coco Jones was recognized for her Disney beginnings and a core fanbase that championed her viral R&B covers. But everything changed in 2022 with ICU, the soulful, career-defining hit that catapulted her into R&B royalty.
Today, Jones is widely regarded as one of the most important young voices in the genre. Her debut album cemented her status as a powerhouse vocalist, earning commercial success, critical acclaim, and Grammy recognition.
On Sight showcases everything that makes Jones such a force: expansive vocal range, emotional depth, and a mature command of R&B that places her at the forefront of the new generation. She’s not just succeeding—she’s dominating.
Olly Sholotan: HOTSHOT
As Carlton Banks on Bel-Air, Olly Sholotan has grown before our eyes, and his evolution as a musician is just as compelling. In our exclusive interview, Sholotan opened up about his new single HOTSHOT, a surprise drop that marks a new chapter in his artistry.
“I feel like I’m in this incredible space in my life where people have watched me grow up. I started the show at 22…, and now I’m stepping into this version of myself where I just feel hot. Like the universe opened up. I wanted to make something that makes people move.”
The track is upbeat, infectious, and full of the self-assured swagger Sholotan describes, a celebration of stepping into your power. Whether fans know him from his acting or his rising music catalogue, HOTSHOT is a statement: Olly Sholotan is entering his prime.
Will Smith: The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
Long before Bel-Air became a dramatic reimagining, the theme song to The Fresh Prince was already one of the most iconic TV intros of all time, written and performed by Will Smith himself.
But the theme was just one part of a historic music career. As one-half of DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, Smith became the first rapper to win a Grammy, later transitioning into blockbuster film stardom while still dropping multi-platinum albums to this day.
His contribution to this soundtrack is a reminder of where it all started and how his music laid the foundation for the Bel-Air empire to come.
Tatyana Ali: Daydreamin‘
Coming off the heels of Will Smith being the lead and a hip hop icon, Tatyana Ali cemented her own music legacy and was a certified star. Daydreamin’, released through Michael Jackson’s record label in 1998, became a global hit, peaking at No. 6 in the U.S. and U.K., and later being certified Gold.
Featuring a smooth sample of Steely Dan’s Black Cow, the single showcased Ali’s warm, melodic tone and her ability to transition effortlessly between acting and music.
Her success helped set the template for young actresses crossing into R&B, proof that talent can thrive in more than one lane. And perhaps setting the tone for the future actresses of Bel-Air, also tapping into music.
Check out The Gentlemen’s Soundtrack below.
