Will Smith Revisits Chris Rock Controversy in New Album: A Mix of Nostalgia and Regret
Updated March 29, 20252 Mins read1.3k
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In a move that has both fans and critics buzzing, Will Smith has re-entered the music scene with his latest album titled “Based on a True Story,” which was released on March 28, 2025. The album’s first track, “Int. Barbershop – Day,” directly calls back to the infamous slap at the 2022 Oscars, where Smith struck comedian Chris Rock after Rock made a joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. Nearly three years after the incident, Smith seems poised to rehash the controversy, leading many to ponder whether this is a clever artistic endeavor or merely an attempt to cling to fame.
Reflecting on the PastNoam Galai/Getty Images
The lyrics of “Int. Barbershop – Day” are unapologetically provocative. It begins with the line “Will Smith is canceled,” a blunt assessment of Smith’s current standing in Hollywood after the slap. Other lyrics express anger and resentment, encapsulated in phrases like “Who the f*** Will Smith think he is?” and “I ain’t never gonna forgive him for that s*** he did.” The track invokes the emotional aftermath not just of the slap but of the entire fallout from the awards show, including Smith’s resignation from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
In these verses, Smith acknowledges the relentless scrutiny he has faced, referencing the false rumors about being forced to return his Oscar for “King Richard.” The track also makes an emotional appeal to his wife, saying, “You wish you had a Jada Pinkett next to you […] You better keep his wife’s name out of your mouth,” a clear echo of his defensive reaction during the Oscars incident itself. With these revived themes, Smith attempts to encapsulate the turmoil of the past few years in a rhythmic narrative, yet it begs the question: is he simply recycling old drama for artistic gains?
A Desperate Comeback or a Smart Strategy?
PR expert Eric Schiffer described Smith’s latest album as a “nostalgia campaign,” suggesting that the artist is invoking his past hit show, “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” as a way of reminding the audience of his former glory. However, Schiffer added a caveat, saying, “Leaning on it now feels like Smith saying, ‘Remember when I was likable?'” The expert raises an alarming point: can nostalgia truly reconcile Smith’s relationship with the public after such a public relations disaster?
Interestingly, Smith has not released a music album since 2005, making “Based on a True Story” a pivotal moment in his career. The 14-track album, seemingly comprised of “episodes” like a TV show, aims to recapture the storytelling charm that made Smith a household name. Moreover, a recent TikTok collaboration with his “Fresh Prince” co-star Tatyana Ali served as an additional reminder of their legendary status in the entertainment world. Their playful recreation of a dance scene, altered for modern audiences, hinted at Smith’s attempts to remain relevant in an ever-evolving industry.
However, Smith’s journey back to the spotlight might not be as straightforward as it seems. Experts question whether he can fully escape the shadow of the Oscars slap, especially after Chris Rock’s Netflix special, “Selective Outrage,” drew significant attention, selling millions and proving that Rock does not shy away from addressing the incident. In the past, Rock has emphasized that he would discuss the slap only if it came with a price. This strategic maneuver has likely left Smith feeling the pressure to reclaim his narrative in light of Rock’s success.
As it stands, Will Smith’s new album resounds with the echoes of his past and the complex emotions surrounding it. As he attempts to carve out a renewed identity, audiences are left to decide whether they see a man trying to reclaim his artistry or simply a celebrity attempting to cash in on a controversy that refuses to fade away.
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