Will Smith Raps About Jada, Chris Rock Slap, & More in New Album
Will Smith Raps About Jada, Chris Rock Slap, & More in New Album
Will Smith is back in the music game with his first album in 20 years, Based on a True Story, and he’s not shying away from addressing the controversies surrounding him. The album opens with a barbershop skit that humorously tackles the public’s opinions on his infamous Oscars slap of Chris Rock, his relationship with wife Jada Pinkett Smith, and the media’s portrayal of his family. The opening track, “Int. Barbershop — Day,” features a chorus of voices (including Smith’s) discussing the backlash, with one line humorously declaring, “Will Smith is canceled.”
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Throughout the track, Smith dives into the critical comments surrounding his legacy, with one voice mocking his parenting and another questioning his actions after the slap. In typical Smith fashion, he has fun with it, adding playful jabs about his personal life, including a shout-out to Jada on the second track, “You Lookin’ For Me?” While the album’s tone is brash, it’s clear that the 56-year-old is embracing the criticism with confidence, blending it into his music.
Smith’s return to music mixes his hip-hop roots with eclectic influences, including trap, neo-soul, flamenco, Afrobeats, and gospel. His collaborations with artists like Big Sean, Joyner Lucas, and Teyana Taylor shine through, with Taylor contributing to the upbeat, Motown-inspired “Hard Times (Smile).” Smith also revisits some of his earlier work, including the previously released “Work of Art” with his son Jaden and Russ, and “First Love,” which he performed at the 2025 Premio Lo Nuestro awards with Spanish singer India Martínez.
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Despite the album’s playful, bold start, Smith incorporates spiritual themes throughout, offering reflections on hardship, redemption, and personal growth. He mixes rapped verses with interludes of gospel-inspired sermons, where he opens up about his emotional journey post-slap and shares words of encouragement for his fans.
Related Article: Jada Pinkett Smith Breaks Silence After Oscars Slap
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With Based on a True Story, Will Smith proves that he’s not just making music; he’s using his art to process personal struggles, poke fun at his public persona, and reflect on the complicated, yet resilient, path he’s walked.
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