Monica: Still Standing

Review

Common Sense Media says

Reality show about rebounding R&B star has a positive vibe.
greenON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age.
yellowPAUSE: Know your child; some content
may not be right for some kids.
redOFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age.
not for kidsNOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age.

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Quality
 
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this reality series -- which follows R&B singer Monica as she records a new album and juggles her personal life -- has positive messages about family, motherhood, and being true to yourself. Compared to many reality shows, the conflict and language are mild (though there's always the potential for some racy song lyrics to pop up). It does serve as a promotional vehicle for the singer and her forthcoming album, and logos for industry players like  j records and Adonis Recordings are visible, as are brands like Mercedes Benz.

  • Positive messages2
    The series highlights the challenges associated with creating a hit record and emphasizes the importance of family in a person’s life. 
  • Positive role models3
    Monica sends the message that if you're strong enough and have faith, you can overcome all of life’s trials. She's a single mom who's committed to her young children; prayer and family are also important to her.
  • Violence0
    Some of the troubling events in Monica’s past have been associated with violence, but these events aren't discussed on the show. There are occasional mild disagreements between Monica and her producers/the label.
  • Sex1
    Featured song lyrics may contain some strong sexual innuendo.
  • Language1
    Generally the language is mild, but the potential for stronger words is always there.
  • Consumerism3
    The series is a promotional vehicle for Monica, as well as j Records, Adonis Recordings, and the other music industry players helping launch her new album. The logo for Delta Airlines is visible. Monica drives a Mercedes Benz.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking0
    Not applicable.
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What's the story?

MONICA: STILL STANDING follows R&B singer Monica as she attempts to balance her music career with her personal life. Cameras roll as the artist -- along with her cousin/manager Melinda Dancil -- works with producers and label owners to create music that will be commercially successful while also allowing her to stay true to herself. When not in the recording studio, the singer raises her two young sons, oversees the remodel of her Atlanta mansion, and shares her life with her fiance, hip-hop singer Rocko. Throughout it all, her extended family is there to support her.

Is it any good?

 

First and foremost, Monica is a promotional vehicle for the singer and her forthcoming album. It emphasizes the work that goes into producing a record that will be commercially successful and shows the R&B singer standing up for the work that she believes best represents her, while also trying to meet the demands of the music industry.

But Monica also uses the series as a platform for showing how it's possible to overcome life's many challenges. She openly credits her extended family with helping her overcome health problems, the death of loved ones, and the commercial failure of her previous single. All in all, it’s not the most exciting of reality shows, but it does offer viewers some positive messages about persevering despite whatever personal hardships life throws your way.

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What families can talk about

  • Families can talk about the kind of work that goes into creating an album. Are you surprised by the number of people involved in producing a record? How hard is it to rebound after a previous record doesn't sell well?

  • Why do some artists use strong language and/or focus on adult themes in their music? Is it about being creative? Shocking audiences? Communicating something specific? How do these lyrics make you feel when you hear them?

  • Get tips for managing music in your home.

This review was written by Melissa Camacho
Parent of 5 and 7 year old
November 24, 2009
AGE
14
 
perfect for adults, and positive for the young teens
I love still standing monica is a great role model and im glad to c her bak in the studio
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This review was written by Melissa Camacho
TV rating:TV-PG
Network:BET
Cast:Melinda Dancil, Monica Arnold, Rodney Hill Jr.
Genre:Reality TV
This review was written by Melissa Camacho
 

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ON: Content is age-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.
Learning ratings
BEST: Really engaging, great learning approach.
GOOD: Pretty engaging, good learning approach.
FAIR: Somewhat engaging, OK learning approach.
NOT FOR LEARNING: Not recommended for learning.
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