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Todd Smith (by LL Cool J, Hip-hop)

common sense media says

Some good stuff, but not for kids and tweens.

parents & educators say
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that there's some sexist language and explicit sexuality on this album. There's also a terrific variety of hip-hop, soul, and R&B, along with some nice, empowering messages for teens.

Positive messages: Some very positive and inspirational messages for young people -- also some sexist language and posturing.
Violence: Not applicable.
Sex: Some explicitly sexual lyrics.
Language: Unusually clean language for the genre.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Maybe one of two references, but not a big issue.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Todd Smith

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about the impressive variety of musical styles, and try to identify the musical influences. Also, families may want to discuss the number of cameo performances here. Why do artists appear on other albums? Do you think it's only to be nice -- or do they have something to gain?

What's the story?

What's the story?
LL Cool J delivers 13 tracks in a variety of styles on TODD SMITH, which was produced by Jermaine Dupri. With cameos by the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Mary J. Blige, Mary Mary, Teairra Mari, Freeway and Juelz Santana, it's an interesting and fun mix. "Favorite Flavor" features a sultry performance by Mary J. Blige, and "We're Gonna Make It" delivers an upbeat, Gospel-tinged punch. "Walkng Down the Aisle" is a charming account of a sweaty-palmed young man's thoughts moments before his wedding.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
The content and music on this CD fluctuate wildly. There's a lot of very sexy and sexist language, but you'll also find powerful and empowering messages. "Best Dress," featuring Jamie Foxx, is meant to inspire girls to go after what they want ("To all my ghetto queens/surviving' by all means/ there's a rock and a hard place/ you're somewhere in between/ keep fightin'/ baby girl, keep fightin'"). Listeners uncomfortable with sexual innuendo might not appreciate a few tracks, but there's a lot of other interesting content, performed by a hip-hop legend, with help from his friends.

Music themes & details

Music Details
Released on: April 11, 2006
Label: Def Jam
Genre: Hip-hop
This review was written by Kathi Kamen Goldmark
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

BIG PAPA
adult
 
i laughed!
Todd Smith cd is outstanding.i love it and it is great for kids and adults.
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berksierra
teen, 16 years old
 
Classic Hip-Hop for all rap lovers. Teens Ok
I love this Cd. I couldn't find a bad thing to say about it if I tried. It's eassily the best rap album i know. If your kids want rap that's gangster styl, but at the same quite tame, This is the Cd for them. Sexual content is the biggest promblem for LL, but besides that, it's great stuff. Five stars at least!!!!
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helped me decide (1) | had useful details (1) | read my mind (1)

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About our rating system
ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age
Our child development rating guidelines