- Will Smith’s new album drops today
- Based on a True Story appears to reference his Chris Rock Oscars slap
- Read on to learn more about each mention of this infamous moment
Will Smith has dropped a new album – and it definitely doesn’t shy away from addressing his infamous Chris Rock slap.
In fact, Smith’s new record – titled Based On a True Story – appears to feature multiple references to the slap heard around the world, alongside commentary on its extensive fallout.
Most people don’t need reminding of this highly-publicised and much-criticised moment – but here’s a quick refresher.
Read more: Will Smith announces first album in 20 years
It took place at the 2022 Oscars when comedian Rock took to the stage to present the award for Best Documentary Feature. After he made a seemingly innocent joke about Smith’s partner Jada Pinkett Smith, the Independence Day star took to the stage and struck Rock across the face. Returning to his seat, he shouted “Keep my wife’s name out of your f*cking mouth.”
Showing true professionalism and tenacity, Rock managed to remain composed and continue with the segment. Meanwhile, Smith found himself back on stage later that same evening to accept the Best Actor Oscar for his performance in the sports drama King Richard.
Read more: Will Smith leads emotional Quincy Jones Grammy’s Tribute
Meanwhile, the move shook Hollywood and people’s perception of Smith.
Does the new Will Smith album reference the Chris Rock slap?
Yes, Smith’s new record Based On A True Story does appear to feature multiple references to the infamous Oscars slap.
The record opens with a track titled Int. Barbershop – Day. It leads with the phrase “Will Smith is canceled,” – directly referencing the Oscars incident.
The opener features multiple voices sharing opinions of the star with one voice saying “I ain’t never going to forgive him for that sh*t he did.”
The same track also features lyrics that are more on-the-nose – but a bit inaccurate.
“I heard he won the Oscar but he had to give it back. And you know they only made him do that sh*t because he’s Black.”
Smith has never been asked to return his Academy Award. Instead, he ended his membership and was banned from attending any Academy-related event for the next decade.
“You better keep his wife’s name out of your mouth”
The Chris Rock slap references continue straight out of the gate in Based on a True Story.
The same opening song directly references the line Smith yelled at Rock at the Oscars: “Him and Jada both crazy girl, what you talkin’ bout?. You better keep his wife’s name out of your mouth.”
Meanwhile, in the album’s second track, the lines continue this thread of thought. You Lookin’ for Me? has Smith claiming he’ll never get nominated again – despite the fact he’s actually still eligible.
“Took a lot, I’m back on top. Y’all gon’ have to get acclimated. Won’t stop, my sh*t still hot. Even though I won’t get nominated.”
