Will Smith criticizes Chris Rock for Oscars incident in latest album

In his new album, “Based On A True Story,” Will Smith addresses the infamous Oscars slap incident involving Chris Rock. After Chris Rock made a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith’s hair loss at the 2022 Oscars, Will Smith took matters into his own hands and slapped Rock on stage, an action that led to serious consequences for Smith.

Despite winning a Best Actor Oscar for his role in “Venus” that night, Smith faced a 10-year ban from all Academy Award events. The album kicks off with a track titled Int. Barbershop – Day, featuring DJ Jazzy Jeff and B. Simone, who engage in a conversation about Smith’s cancelled status in the aftermath of the incident. The dialogue highlights the backlash Smith faced, with lines like, “You can’t cancel an icon. I heard he won the Oscar, but he had to give it back, and you know they only made him do that [expletive] because he’s Black.”

In this track, Smith also addresses Chris Rock directly, delivering a powerful message: “Keep my wife’s name out of your [expletive] mouth.” The lyrics further emphasize Smith’s frustration over the situation, with lines like, “Him and Jada both crazy girl, what you talkin’ bout? You better keep his wife’s name out of your mouth. You Lookin’ For Me. Took a lot, I’m back on top, y’all (going to) have to get acclimated. Won’t stop, my [expletive] still hot, even though I won’t get nominated.”

Will Smith publicly addressed the incident for the first time in July 2022, offering an apology for his actions. It is worth noting that “Based on a True Story” marks Smith’s return to the music scene after a 20-year hiatus since his last album, “Lost and Found.”

This album serves as a platform for Smith to express his feelings and thoughts surrounding the Oscars slap incident and its aftermath. Through his music, Smith addresses the consequences of his actions, the backlash he faced, and his perspective on the situation overall. “Based On A True Story” is a reflection of Smith’s experiences and emotions during a challenging time in his career and personal life.