Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Mild series follows up-and-coming rapper's business moves.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
What's the Story?
SON OF A GUN follows rap performer Cory Gunz as he attempts to jumpstart his career. After two failed records, the young artist has a final shot at recording and launching a successful album with the help of mentors like actor/rapper Nick Cannon, and Gunz's own father, former hip-hop star Peter Gunz. Cory struggles with some tough choices, which range from choosing a record label to determining whether mixing business and friendship is a good idea, especially when it comes to relying on people like attorney/family friend Ed Wood. Throughout it all, he has to prove to everyone around him that he's got what it takes to become a star.
Is It Any Good?
The series, which is produced by Cannon, offers a voyeuristic look at the challenges that up-and-coming artists can face when starting out their careers, like staying focused on their craft when perks like parties and money suddenly become accessible. It also shows how difficult it can be to figure out whether the people surrounding you are thinking more about their desire to profit from their success rather than being truly concerned about your professional and creative development.
It's honest, but the frequent scenes revolving around business-oriented conversations between Cory and his competing circle of advisors make the show a little tedious. Still, that very monotony underscores the fact that being in the recording industry isn't always as glamorous as it's made out to be.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what it takes to become a successful recording artist. Why isn't enough for artists to just concentrate on their music? What are some of the perks and pitfalls that come with territory? How does this reality show fit into Gunz's career aspirations?
What are some of the stereotypes that exist about hip-hop and rap artists? Do you think these stereotypes are being reflected in this series? Or does it offer another representation of the culture and the people who are a part of it?
TV Details
- Premiere date : January 26, 2011
- Cast : Cory Gunz , Nick Cannon , Peter Gunz
- Network : MTV
- Genre : Reality TV
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 18, 2022
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