Will Smith’s Long-Awaited Album “Based on a True Story” Torn Apart by Critics and Comedians Alike

After nearly two decades, Will Smith returned to the music scene with his first full-length album since 2005, Based on a True Story. However, the highly anticipated comeback has quickly turned into a critical disaster. The album, meant to mark a new chapter in the Hollywood icon’s career, is being slammed by both music critics and pop culture commentators, reigniting controversy and public debate.

One of the most scathing reviews came from Pitchfork, where writer Stephen Kearse didn’t hold back. He described the album as a “pointless apology tour” and “corny,” awarding it a brutal 2.4 out of 10. “It is a campaign platform, devoid of perspective or style, uninterested in narrative or even spin, but always on message: Please take me back,” Kearse wrote, implying that Smith’s intentions behind the album were more about public image than authentic artistry.

Rolling Stone echoed similar sentiments. Reviewer Mankaprr Conteh called the album “clunky” and criticized it for being weighed down by “cringey, gospel-tinged, platitudinous rap.” According to many, the album seems less like a musical statement and more like a self-aware attempt at redemption following the infamous 2022 Oscars incident where Smith slapped comedian Chris Rock on stage.

That same incident has made its way into the lyrics of Based on a True Story—a decision that has only added fuel to the fire. Tony Rock, Chris Rock’s brother, didn’t mince words when speaking to TMZ. “Everybody keeps telling me to stop talking about it but then he fcking puts it on a song,” he said. “So that gives me leeway to talk about it again. Album’s trash. I’m just assuming. I haven’t listened to it. I refuse to listen to it.” Tony argued that referencing the slap was nothing more than a tactic to sell a “shtty album,” calling it “probably shtty as fck.”

Even comedy shows are joining in on the criticism. On Saturday Night Live, comedian Michael Che took a jab during the “Weekend Update” segment, quipping: “Will Smith has released his first new album in 20 years, and ironically, this album doesn’t slap.”

Despite the backlash, some fans have taken to social media to defend the actor-turned-rapper, praising the vulnerability and emotional transparency found in tracks that delve into his struggles with fame, family, and public scrutiny. But overall, Based on a True Story has received more criticism than applause, painting a complicated picture of a once-beloved entertainer trying to reclaim his place in the spotlight.

Whether Smith’s new musical endeavor will be remembered for its raw honesty or as a miscalculated attempt at redemption remains to be seen—but for now, the consensus is clear: his return to music has not gone the way he’d hoped.