Will Smith addresses Chris Rock Oscars slap and Hollywood backlash in his first album in 20 years

Will Smith is back in the spotlight, but this time not for his acting—he's making waves in the music industry with his latest album, Based on a True Story. The project, his first studio album in over 20 years, features a series of personal and introspective tracks, one of which directly addresses the infamous 2022 Oscars slap involving comedian Chris Rock.

Will Smith Acknowledges the Slap

In one of the album’s tracks, Smith openly raps about the controversial moment when he slapped Chris Rock on stage after the comedian made a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith. The lyrics delve into his emotions following the incident and how the fallout impacted his life and career.

Smith references the widespread backlash he received after the slap, including being banned from the Oscars for ten years. One of his lines suggests a sense of injustice, stating, "They only made me give it back ‘cause I’m Black." This lyric seemingly points to his revoked Academy Award privileges and the racial undertones of the controversy.

Throughout Based on a True Story, Smith uses his music as a way to process his struggles, redemption, and his journey back to self-acceptance. He raps about how he faced public scrutiny, lost projects, and had to rebuild his public image in the wake of the Oscars scandal.

This album marks Smith’s first full-length studio project in two decades, making it a significant moment in his career. While he has dabbled in music over the years, this release signifies his return to the industry with a more mature and personal approach.

Social Media Reacts to Smith’s New Album

As expected, social media users have reacted strongly to the album’s release. Some fans appreciate his honesty and vulnerability, while others criticize him for bringing up the slap again instead of moving on.

Despite the controversies, Smith continues to push forward with multiple projects in Hollywood, including his upcoming films. With his latest music, he seems to be embracing his past rather than running from it, using his art as a way to tell his side of the story.

Will Smith’s Based on a True Story is available for streaming now, giving fans an intimate look into his personal journey and reflections on the infamous Oscars incident.