After a 20-year hiatus, Will Smith has released his first album titled Based On A True Story. The album has quickly garnered attention on social media, with fans and critics reacting to its content. Two tracks, in particular, have gone viral: “Int. Barbershop – Day” and “You Lookin’ For Me?”. These songs have sparked discussions due to their references to Smith’s personal life, including his marriage to Jada Pinkett Smith and the infamous Oscars slap incident involving Chris Rock.
Will Smith’s Oscars Slap Continues to Fuel Backlash, Referenced in New Album Tracks
The Oscars slap continues to haunt Will Smith, even as he tries to move on from the incident. In 2022, Smith slapped comedian Chris Rock on stage after Rock made a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith’s baldness. As a result, Smith was banned from attending any Academy Award events for 10 years. Despite offering an apology and attempting to distance himself from the moment, the slap remains a major part of Smith’s public image, and it’s referenced multiple times on his new album, particularly in the track “Int. Barbershop – Day.”
Will Smith Confronts Oscars Slap and Marriage Rumors in New Album Based On A True Story“Int. Barbershop – Day” is a track that features a monologue filled with gossip and rumors. The song highlights the public’s reaction to the slap, with lyrics referencing how Smith’s actions have affected his reputation. The song includes lines like “Will Smith is canceled” and “I ain’t never going to forgive him for that sh*t,” signaling the ongoing backlash. The track also touches on Smith’s relationship with Jada, with a specific reference to the moment when Smith yelled, “Keep my wife’s name out of your f**king mouth” during the Oscars.
Will Smith Addresses Oscar Controversy and Complex Marriage in New Album Tracks
In addition to the slap, “Int. Barbershop – Day” also addresses the aftermath of Smith’s win for Best Actor at the Oscars for his role in King Richard. Despite his victory, Smith’s win was overshadowed by the slap, and rumors swirled that he might have been forced to return his Oscar. The song includes the line, “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,” suggesting a commentary on racial perceptions and the controversy surrounding his win.
In another track, “You Lookin’ For Me,” Will Smith delves deeper into his personal life, particularly his complex relationship with Jada Pinkett Smith. The couple, who have been married since 1997 and share two children, Jaden and Willow, have faced public scrutiny over the years.
Despite their marital struggles, including Jada revealing in 2023 that they’ve been living separately since 2016, the couple continues to be a subject of intense media attention. Smith’s lyrics in the song hint at the complexity of their relationship while asserting that his success remains unaffected by personal matters.