It was the moment that sent shockwaves across the globe — and now, Will Smith is confronting it head-on.

Marking his musical return after two decades, the acclaimed actor and rapper has released a brand-new album. Within its verses, Smith finally opens up about the infamous 2022 Oscars incident where he hit comedian Chris Rock on live television.

The altercation occurred after Rock, while presenting an award, cracked a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith's shaved head—a remark that visibly upset her husband. 

Smith stormed the stage and slapped the comedian, resulting in a 10-year ban from attending the Academy Awards.

Titled "Based on a True Story", Smith's latest album features a track called "Int Barbershop — Day," which opens with the line, "Will Smith is cancelled."

The track brings together familiar faces and fresh voices, including Smith's longtime musical partner DJ Jazzy Jeff and popular social media personality B Simone. 

As the song kicks off, a chorus of voices engages in a lively conversation about Smith's public downfall.

One voice speculates, "He got that Oscar, then they tried to take it back—man, they only did that 'cause he's Black."

The slap and the Oscar win happened in the same unforgettable night—Smith earned the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in "King Richard". Despite the controversy, the Academy did not revoke his award.

Another voice jumps in saying, "Jada and Will? They both wild, girl, what you mean?/ You better watch it—remember what he said about his queen?" — nodding to the moment Smith shouted at Chris Rock to "keep my wife's name out your mouth" just before the onstage confrontation.

In a different track titled "You Lookin' For Me?", Smith fires back with bold lyrics: "Took a lot, I'm back on top/ Y'all gon' have to get acclimated/ Won't stop, my s**t still hot/ Even though I won't get nominated." 

Smith has since issued a public apology to Rock, both in a formal statement and later through a video message where he described himself as "deeply remorseful" for his actions. 

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Rock, in turn, broke his silence with pointed reflections during a 2023 comedy special.