Smokey has been a judge since 2023

Smokey Smothers cannot be confined to a box. The Wisconsin native/Chicago resident is a special kind of artist. Writing raps and producing her own beats became a passion at the tender age of 9.

Smokey’s discography is impressive, dating back to 2007. In the Spring of 2015, Smokey released her Sophomore mixtape entitled “The Prelude.” A reviewer from Eau Claire's local "Volume One" magazine stated, “It’s a mix of anything from Sprawling jazz to left-field Co heed and Cambria samples, complimenting her breathless Southern - Reminiscent flow.” This best defines Smokey's overall sound.

“I have never witnessed anything this amazing for young musicians. Bitter Jester is literally changing lives and helping these musicians grow into legends!”

-Smokey Smothers

In 2021 she released her EP “Shadow Work” that includes the popular singles ‘Go Nutz’ (which garnered over 200,000 views on Tik Tok via Dancing Granny) and ‘Finest Hour’ (which has over 200,000 views on YouTube via DJ Noize Hot Right Now Mix 85).  Her latest release, “Hollywood Smoke” is a project showcasing a persona of hers with a rock star attitude.

Smokey has opened for acts such as Bezz Believe and Potluck, as well as headlined her own Mini Tour promoting “Hollywood Smoke”. Over the last five years she has gained fans nationally and internationally. Currently Smokey is working on music for her next project to be released later this summer.

In addition to being an artist, she’s also CEO of Spaceflight Media, specializing in videography, graphic design and script writing.

Smokey comes from a musical family and is here to continue the legacy of her grandfather & great uncle: Chicago blues brothers Big Smokey Smothers & Little Smokey Smothers. Big Smokey played in both Muddy Waters and Howlin Wolf’s bands; Little Smokey performed in Europe with Ike Turner. Big Smokey even wrote one of Muddy Water’s songs called My Dog Can’t Bark (credited as Otis Smothers).

Guitar legend Jimi Hendrix even had one of her grandfather’s albums in his personal record collection. Her commitment to this legacy and bringing good, relatable music to her fans is sure to keep her on the road to success.

Smokey is excited to return to BJMF as a judge for her second season in 2024! More about Smokey at www.iamsmokeysmothers.com

 

“The entire atmosphere of Bitter Jester is so warm and welcoming and the kids are always eager to receive feedback to help them grow. I will seriously come back every year! Even if it's just to enjoy the show. I’m very impressed.

-Smokey Smothers