Big Smo

John Smith, known professionally as Big Smo, was born on February 14, 1976, in San Diego, California. His music career began in 1999, though his first album, “Kuntry Kitchen,” was released in 2002 under Yayoda Records. He followed this with “The True South” in 2007. A significant turning point in his career occurred in 2010 when his self-produced music video “Kickin’ It in Tennessee” achieved viral status on YouTube, accumulating over five million views. This success helped raise his profile, leading to further opportunities in the music industry.

Big Smo signed with Warner Bros. Records, releasing two EPs: “Grass Roots” in 2012 and “Backwoods Whiskey” in 2013. His major-label debut album, “Kuntry Livin’,” was launched in 2014 through Elektra Nashville/Warner Bros. This album charted on three Billboard charts, including the Billboard 200, Top Country Albums, and Rap Albums, marking a significant milestone in his career. In addition to his musical endeavors, Big Smo was the subject of an eponymous reality television series on A&E, which premiered in June 2014, chronicling his life and music. He also made an appearance on the Spike TV series “Bar Rescue.”

His musical style, often described as rural rap or hick-hop, combines country themes and melodies with rap production and vocal delivery. Over the years, he has continued to release music, including “We the People” in 2016 and “Special Reserve” in 2018, both showcasing his distinctive blend of genres. Living on his 32-acre “Kuntry Ranch” compound in Unionville, Tennessee, Big Smo maintains a strong connection to the rural lifestyle that influences his artistic output. In 2024, after a notable weight loss of 225 pounds, he announced plans to open a plant-based food truck in Shelbyville, broadening his activities beyond music.