Will Smith mentions Chris Rock Oscars incident in new ‘Based on a True Story’ album lyrics

Will Smith has not shied away from addressing the infamous Oscars slap incident involving Chris Rock on his newly released album, “Based on a True Story.” The 56-year-old actor and musician dropped the album on March 28, with lyrics that allude to the moment at the 2022 Oscars when he slapped Rock on stage in response to a joke the host made about Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith.

The incident took place after Rock made an unscripted comment about Jada’s shaved head, a result of alopecia. Cameras captured Smith shouting at Rock, telling him to keep his wife’s name out of his mouth. The album’s opening track, “Int. Barbershop — Day,” featuring B. Simone and DJ Jazzy Jeff, begins with the line, “Will Smith is cancelled.” Another voice chimes in, expressing unforgiveness for Rock’s actions.

Further in the song, Smith makes a direct reference to the incident with the lyrics, “Him and Jada both crazy, girl, what you talkin’ bout? / You better keep his wife’s name out of your mouth.” The song continues with a mention of an Oscar win that had to be revoked, suggesting racial bias played a role in the decision to penalize Smith.

Although Smith did not have to return the Best Actor Oscar he won for his role in “King Richard,” he faced a 10-year ban from the Academy Awards and resigned from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. In the aftermath, he issued a public apology to Rock, acknowledging that the joke had crossed a line and expressing his embarrassment and remorse for his actions.

Subsequent tracks on the album, such as “You Lookin’ For Me?”, also make reference to the fallout from the incident, with Smith asserting his resilience and determination to continue creating music despite potential setbacks like awards or nominations. In a teaser video prior to the album’s release, Smith described the project as a deep exploration of his identity, marking a period of self-honesty and artistic growth that he believes will be the pinnacle of his career.

Before dropping the album, Smith released several singles, including “Beautiful Scars” featuring Big Sean, which explores the idea that challenges and adversity can ultimately lead to personal growth and transformation. Other tracks on the album include collaborations with his son, Jaden Smith, and artists like Russ and Joyner Lucas.

Despite the controversies surrounding him, Will Smith has used his music as a platform to address, reflect on, and move beyond the events that have defined his recent public persona. Through his album, “Based on a True Story,” he has embraced vulnerability, honesty, and artistic expression to navigate the complexities of fame, family, and personal growth.