Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Southern rock meets rap in family-friendly reality show.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 12+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Big Smo
What's the Story?
BIG SMO is a reality series that follows country rap artist John "Big Smo" Smith as he performs his unique music and builds his career. After paying his dues for 14 years in the music scene, the Tennessee native finally has a music contract and is now working harder and longer to get his "hick-hop" style to the top of the charts. While he performs in venues around the country with singer/songwriters Haden Carpenter and Alex King, his manager Dan Nelson and his tour manager JJ Harness work hard to keep things going. But Big Smo's real posse are his daughters, Lanica and Ameria; his girlfriend, Whitney; and, of course, his mama. He's a big guy with lots of character, talent, and fans, but ultimately he's all about taking care of his family.
Is It Any Good?
From traveling to and performing at venues to teaching his girls how to chop wood, Big Smo works to build his music career while trying to balance time with his family. But the show also is a promotional vehicle for his brand and his unique style of music, which is inspired by hip-hop, southern rock, and rap.
It's not the most drama-filled reality show, and there are lots of staged moments throughout. But the singer's likable personality and the show's positive messages about family make it appealing. Reality fans looking for some voyeuristic drama won't really find it here, but country music-oriented fans will probably find it entertaining.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about music. What kinds of music and bands have influenced you over the years? Which genres of music could you combine to make a unique sound?
Why do reality shows feature activities that are preplanned or rehearsed? Do these kinds of moments make them more or less entertaining?
TV Details
- Premiere date : June 11, 2014
- Cast : Big Smo , Whitney Crocker , Haden Carpenter
- Network : A&E
- Genre : Reality TV
- Topics : Arts ( Music and Sing-Along )
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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