Fri Dec 06 07:10:00 UTC 2024: **John Legend and Mike Jackson’s Hip-Hop Competition Show, “Rhythm + Flow,” Returns to Netflix**
LOS ANGELES – John Legend and his producing partner Mike Jackson are celebrating the return of their hit Netflix hip-hop competition series, *Rhythm + Flow*. The show, which was initially delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic, has completed its second season, showcasing a new generation of hip-hop talent.
Legend, known for his R&B career, emphasized the show’s unique format, highlighting that unlike other singing competitions, *Rhythm + Flow* focuses on artists telling their own stories through original music, a key factor in its success on the global Netflix platform. Jackson highlighted the freedom afforded by Netflix, allowing for a raw and uncensored portrayal of the artists’ lives and music.
The show’s initial success, featuring judges T.I., Cardi B, and Chance the Rapper, along with guest appearances by Snoop Dogg, Nipsey Hussle, and Eminem, propelled the series to international popularity. This led to Netflix greenlighting a second season with new judges Ludacris, Latto, and DJ Khaled. The choice of judges, Legend explained, was deliberate, aiming for a mix of seasoned veterans and current artists representing the dynamism of the hip-hop scene.
Season two concluded with a controversial win for DreTL, sparking debate among viewers and highlighting the subjective nature of artistic judgment. Legend and Jackson addressed the controversy, noting that the judges’ decision was final and reflected a close competition. They emphasized the importance of this ongoing discussion within hip-hop culture. Further fueling the discussion, the show’s elimination of strong contender Dono has also generated online debate, though Jackson attributed it to the inherent nature of competition shows.
Beyond *Rhythm + Flow*, Legend and Jackson discussed their production company, Get Lifted Film Co., and their new podcast, *Why Not Me? With Mike Jackson*, which features candid conversations with established figures in the entertainment industry, including Legend himself. The podcast aims to offer insight into the journeys and challenges faced by successful individuals of color. The podcast and *Rhythm + Flow* together offer fans a unique look into the world of hip-hop and the entertainment business. Both seasons of *Rhythm + Flow* are currently streaming on Netflix.
First Piper 