Monica: Still Standing
By Melissa Camacho,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Reality show about rebounding R&B star has a positive vibe.
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What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.
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Based on 1 parent review
perfect for adults, and positive for the young teens
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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.
Talk to Your Kids 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.
TV Details
- Premiere date: October 27, 2009
- Cast: Melinda Dancil , Monica Arnold , Rodney Hill Jr.
- Network: BET
- Genre: Reality TV
- TV rating: TV-PG
- Last updated: February 24, 2022
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