2025 NAACP Image Awards: 5 Reasons Why ‘Rhythm + Flow’ Is Hip-Hop’s Ultimate Talent Series
Since its debut in 2019, Netflix’s music reality competition series "Rhythm + Flow" has captivated audiences with its must-see performances, raw talent, and no-holds-barred critiques.
With its mix of industry heavyweights like Latto and Ludacris, emotional storytelling, and jaw-dropping musical moments, “Rhythm + Flow” has solidified its place in the cultural zeitgeist. This year, it earned a nomination for Outstanding Reality Program, Reality Competition, or Game Show (Series) at the upcoming NAACP Image Awards, airing Feb 22, 2025.
This series is helping reshape how we discover new hip-hop talent. In honor of this well-deserved recognition, here are five things every fan (or curious newcomer) should know about the show.
A Star-Studded Panel of Judges
“Rhythm + Flow” boasts an impressive trio of hip-hop royalty as judges. Season one featured Grammy Award-winning emcee Cardi B, Chance the Rapper, and T.I. Season two, which debuted on November 20, 2024, introduced a new panel of judges, including DJ Khaled, Latto, and Ludacris. These icons brought their unique perspectives and expertise to the table, offering a blend of industry know-how and tough love to aspiring artists.
The Search for Authentic Talent
“Rhythm + Flow” prides itself on uncovering genuine, unsigned hip-hop talent. The audition process spans multiple cities, including Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, and Atlanta, giving local artists a shot at the national spotlight.
Celebrity Guest Appearances
The series is packed with appearances from some of the biggest names in music. Legends like Snoop Dogg, Lupe Fiasco, and Anderson .Paak have stepped in to mentor contestants, provide feedback, or even judge specific challenges.
- advertisement
Unique Challenges Set It Apart
From cyphers and rap battles to music video creation and live performances, they challenge the contestants to their creative limits. Each round tests different aspects of their artistry, ensuring that only the most versatile and dynamic performers make it to the finale.
Past Winners Making Waves
The inaugural season crowned D Smoke, an Inglewood-based rapper whose lyrical prowess and bilingual flows wowed both judges and viewers. Since his win, D Smoke released his critically acclaimed debut album “Black Habits,” which received two Grammy nominations, including Best Rao Albums, and earned a record deal with Snoop’s Death Row Records.
Watch the NAACP Image Awards live on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 8:00 pm ET/PT on BET.
