Will Smith is back in the music scene with a deeply personal and unfiltered album, Based on a True Story, his first full-length release in 20 years. The multi-talented actor and rapper is confronting his past head-on, directly referencing the infamous 2022 Oscars slap incident with Chris Rock and the subsequent fallout.
Will Smith Faces the Scandal in His Lyrics
One of the most talked-about tracks on the album, You Lookin’ for Me?, sees Smith reflecting on the backlash he faced after slapping Chris Rock on the Oscars stage. In one striking line, he raps,
“Won’t stop, my s— still hot/ Even though I won’t get nominated.” These words highlight the enduring impact of the controversy, including his 10-year ban from attending Academy events.
The album’s opening track, Int. Barbershop — Day, immediately sets the tone with voices discussing Smith’s “cancellation.” The song includes lines like, “Him and Jada both crazy, girl, what you talkin’ bout?/ You better keep his wife’s name out of your mouth.” These lyrics not only reference the moment itself but also reflect the public discourse that followed.
The Road to Redemption
Smith, 56, appears to be using Based on a True Story as a form of artistic therapy, addressing personal struggles and public scrutiny. In a teaser video leading up to the album’s release, he shared, “The past couple of years, I’ve been doing a very deep exploration of who and what I truly am.” He went on to say, “This is about to be the greatest artistic creative period of my entire life.”
The album also features collaborations with hip-hop heavyweights such as Big Sean, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Joyner Lucas, and even his son, Jaden Smith. The song Work of Art, which includes Jaden and Russ, showcases another side of Smith’s artistry, proving that despite the controversy, he remains an influential force in the entertainment industry.
A Career Marked by Highs and Lows
Smith’s career has been a rollercoaster. From his Fresh Prince of Bel-Air days to winning the Best Actor Oscar for King Richard, his journey has been filled with triumphs. However, the 2022 Oscars incident brought a dark cloud over his legacy. While he did not have to return his Academy Award, his resignation from the Academy and the decade-long ban were significant setbacks.
Despite the challenges, Smith has maintained a loyal fan base and continues to find ways to reinvent himself. His latest album appears to be a testament to resilience and self-reflection. The track Tantrum, featuring Joyner Lucas, further alludes to his struggles, as he raps about navigating fame, criticism, and personal redemption.
Will Smith’s Legacy Continues
As Smith moves forward with this new chapter, Based on a True Story serves as both a confessional and a comeback. Whether audiences embrace his return or remain critical, there’s no denying his impact on the entertainment industry.
The album is now available on all major streaming platforms, inviting listeners to witness Smith’s raw and unfiltered perspective on his past, present, and future.
Sources:
TechCrunch, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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