A&E NETWORK BEGINS PRODUCTION ON NEW ORIGINAL SERIES "BIG SMO" (Working Title)

SERIES WILL CHRONICLE THE PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL LIFE OF MAGNETIC WARNER BROS. RECORDS ARTIST BIG SMO ON HIS RISE TO FAME

NEW YORK, NY - March 3, 2014 - A&E Network has ordered the new original series "Big Smo" (working title), it was announced today by David McKillop, Executive Vice President and General Manager, A&E Network. The series will follow larger-than-life country 'hick-hop' artist, Big Smo, as he takes his unique style of music to new heights with the support of lifelong friends, loyal fans and most importantly, his beloved family. Production begins immediately on ten half-hour episodes set in Tennessee.

Born John Smith in the small town of Unionville, Tennessee, Big Smo is a country boy turned charismatic 'hick-hop' artist (a blend of country, Southern rock and hip-hop) who just signed to Warner Bros. Records. While music is Smo's lifelong passion, he's a family man first and foremost. Surrounded by a lively extended entourage including his mother, childhood buddies, long-time girlfriend and two young daughters, Smo is driven to stay grounded and succeed in a business known for hard living.As he gears up to debut his first major-label album , Kuntry Livin', Smo is continuously challenged to balance the tireless life of a touring musician with the demands of his family responsibilities.When not out on the road, Smo's on his farm in Unionville in the role he holds most dear, that of a good and present father to his daughters and supportive partner to Whitney, the love of his life.Through it all, Smo's determination, die-hard fans (known affectionately as his Kinfoke) and deep Southern family roots keep him going on his wild ride to fame.

"Big Smo" is produced by Brownstone Entertainment for A&E Network. Executive producers for Brownstone Entertainment are Drew Brown and Bob Gillan. Nicco Ardin is co-executive producer.Executive producers for A&E Network are Drew Tappon, Dave Mace and Nicole Reed.

About A&E Network

Now reaching 100 million homes, A&E is the home to 100% original content that inspires and challenges audiences to BE ORIGINAL. A&E offers a diverse mix of high quality, uniquely immersive entertainment ranging from the network's original scripted series, including "Bates Motel," "Longmire" and "Those Who Kill," to signature non-fiction franchises, including "Duck Dynasty," "Beyond Scared Straight" and "Storage Wars." The A&E website is located at aetv.com. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/aetv and Facebook at facebook.com/AETV.