Will Smith Confronts Oscars Slap Fallout in New Album ‘Based on a True Story’
The Oscar-winning actor and rapper addresses the infamous Chris Rock slap, cancel culture, and personal redemption in Based on a True Story.
A Deeply Personal Musical Return After 20 Years
Will Smith is embracing his past controversies head-on with the release of his first full-length album in two decades, Based on a True Story. The 56-year-old actor and musician, known for his infectious charisma and larger-than-life career, is using his latest musical endeavor to reflect on the infamous 2022 Oscars slap that shook Hollywood.
Addressing the Scandal Through Music
Smith doesn’t shy away from the controversy that led to widespread backlash, professional repercussions, and intense media scrutiny. The incident, which occurred when he slapped comedian Chris Rock during the 2022 Academy Awards in response to a joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, became one of the most talked-about moments in pop culture history.
In the opening track, Int. Barbershop — Day, Smith confronts the public perception of his actions. The song kicks off with a voice stating, “Will Smith is canceled,” capturing the public discourse that followed the incident. Another voice later says, “I ain’t never going to forgive him for that s— he did,” signaling the deep divides the moment created.
The track also features references to the ongoing conversation about Smith’s legacy and the racial undertones of his treatment by the Academy. A voice in the song asserts, “I heard he won the Oscar but he had to give it back/ And you know they only made him do that s— because he’s Black.” While Smith retained his Best Actor award for King Richard, he was banned from Academy events for a decade and resigned from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences following the incident.
Lyrical Honesty and Career Resilience
Smith continues his candid exploration of the fallout in You Lookin’ for Me?, another track from the album. He raps, “Took a lot, I’m back on top/ Y’all gon’ have to get acclimated/ Won’t stop, my s— still hot/ Even though I won’t get nominated.” The lines suggest that despite the industry’s cold shoulder, Smith remains confident in his artistry and ability to stay relevant.
The album, featuring collaborations with longtime friend DJ Jazzy Jeff, B. Simone, and artists like Big Sean and Obanga, marks Smith’s return to music after a 20-year hiatus. Since Lost and Found in 2005, Smith has focused on his acting career, but Based on a True Story signals a deeply personal artistic resurgence.
A Journey of Self-Reflection
Leading up to the album’s release, Smith shared a teaser video revealing his motivation behind the project. “The past couple of years, I’ve been doing a very deep exploration of who and what I truly am,” he says in the video. “The process of this album is really allowing myself to be more honest with myself than I ever have about who and what I actually am. This is about to be the greatest artistic creative period of my entire life.”
Smith’s reemergence extends beyond music. In addition to his album, he’s been actively engaging with fans and recently received a significant honor in his hometown of Philadelphia, where a street was named after him—Will Smith Way.
A New Chapter Begins
Despite the controversies, Smith remains a cultural icon, and Based on a True Story marks a turning point in his journey of redemption and self-discovery. Through raw storytelling and unfiltered lyrics, Smith is reclaiming his narrative, proving that even after setbacks, he continues to evolve and thrive.
With the album now available, fans and critics alike will decide whether Smith’s music offers the closure and artistic rebirth he seeks. One thing is certain—he’s far from done making his mark.
