Common Sense Media Review
By Emily Ashby
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Musical groups duke it out in Idol copycat.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 11+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
THE NEXT GREAT AMERICAN BAND is a reality talent competition for musical groups, who are competing not just for the prestigious title, but also for a coveted recording contract. The bands brave feedback from entertainer/music director Sheila E., rock singer/guitarist John Rzeznik of the Goo Goo Dolls, and Australian Idol judge Ian "Dicko" Dickson. Contestants are chosen through an open casting call for video submissions, and competitors cross the musical spectrum from reggae to big band, country to heavy metal. The judges narrow the field to the final 12 competitors and the viewers then take the reins, voting on their favorites by phone or text message after each episode.
Is It Any Good?
If American Idol is your style, then The Next Great American Band is probably the next best thing for your craving. It doesn't pack the dramatic punch that the long-running Idol does, but it has a dynamic of its own that viewers might find inviting, and the well-rounded group of competitors offers plenty of variety for fans. But it's worth noting that the judges' comments can seem fairly harsh at times, and there's always the possibility of interpersonal conflict among competitors and judges. Strong language is sporadic, but present; the worst of it (multiple variations on "f--k") is bleeped.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the audition and judging process. Do all of the bands seem serious about the competition? Why or why not? Is the judges' criticism always helpful? How much of what they say to the contestants is for shock value and ratings? Teens: Have you ever been judged like these competitors? How did it feel? Would you ever want to compete on a reality show? Why or why not?
TV Details
- Premiere date : October 19, 2007
- Cast : Ian Dickson , John Rzeznik , Sheila E
- Network : Fox
- Genre : Reality TV
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 19, 2019
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate