Coolio's Rules

Coolio's Rules is an American reality television series, which aired on the Oxygen channel in 2008. The show follows the life and times of Grammy-winning hip-hop legend Coolio as he balances personal life, parenting, entrepreneurship and aspirations of a comeback in the music industry. Coolio has often been known not just for his musical prowess but also his culinary skills, sense of humor, and of course, his distinctive hair style.

Coolio's Rules takes a deep dive into the rapper's personal life and introduces us to his four children; Artisha, Brandi, Artis and Jackie. Throughout the duration of this reality series, we observe Coolio as he transitioned from successful musician to constant father figure after he took his children under his wings. The series candidly exhibits how Coolio attempts to instill values, teach supportive techniques and combine traditions, all while trying to establish ground rules to keep his children on the correct path.

In typical reality TV style, the series does not shy away from displaying real-life issues within the family. From Coolio's continuous struggle to maintain a clean house, to his protocols concerning curfew and boyfriends, to the struggle of his oldest son finding a job, each episode focuses on a different area of family management that Coolio is trying to get a control of. The show appeals to viewers who enjoy real reactions and interactions, as well as those who can appreciate Coolio's unique fathering style.

Despite being a multi-platinum selling rap artist, Coolio is shown striving to be more than just a successful musician in the eyes of his children. He ventures into various entrepreneurial businesses such as launching a catering company and a clothing line as he wants to set an example of perseverance and hard work for his kids. Each episode has Coolio exerting an extensive effort to ensure the success of his projects, giving everyone a glimpse of Hardworking Dad, and not just Coolio the rapper.

His unique parenting style and approach towards life gets the viewers wondering if he has bitten off more than he can chew, as he continuously engages in new projects and tries to keep his family in-check. A key highlight of the show is Coolio's old-school way of parenting, which includes holding family meetings and teaching his children the value of discipline, hard work, and respect.

The other star attractions of the show are Coolio's own children, each with their distinct personalities, adding their own flavor to the show. While Coolio attempts to establish firm rules, the kids each bring their own battles, aspirations, and attitudes.

Coolio's Rules is every bit as unfiltered and free-flowing as you would expect. Beyond his talents and eccentricities, the show portrays Coolio as a dad who is merely trying to do the best for his children while juggling multiple roles. The viewers follow him on his journey of success and setbacks, witnessing the ups and downs a famous father has to face.

Just as Coolio raps, "I've been spending most of my life living in a gangsta's paradise," while watching this show, the viewers can see that the gangsta's paradise is not just about the glitz, glamour and music. It’s also about facing responsibilities, learning to survive, and ultimately educating the next generation.

As each episode chronicles his transformation from a renowned hip-hop persona to an everyday family man, Coolio’s Rules puts a spotlight on the concept of fame, family, struggles, and dreams. It exemplifies the fact that humans are more than just the titles they carry; they are also individuals with familial responsibilities and personal obligations.

All and all, the show pulls back the curtain on the life of one the most recognizable emcees in the industry, and gives a raw, uncut look on the domestic life of a hip-hop superstar.

Fun, entertaining, poignant at times, but always real – that is what Coolio's Rules is about. Whether you're a fan of reality television, hip hop, or even just love stories about families and their inherent challenges, Coolio's Rules provides a touch of it all. Who gets to make the rules in the drama of daily life? In this case, it’s Coolio.