Rapper and former reality TV contestant Latto, known for her rise to fame in the music industry, is now taking on a new role as a judge on the second season of Netflix’s competitive hip-hop series, “Rhythm + Flow.” Before achieving platinum-selling success, she first showcased her talent as a participant on “The Rap Game,” where she gained significant attention for her skills and artistry. That background equips her with a unique perspective as she mentors the next generation of hip-hop artists on the show, allowing her to understand the pressure and challenges the contestants face.
In her recent comments to CNN, Latto expressed her excitement and nerves about stepping into the judging role. She reflected on her own experience as a contestant, noting, “At first I was nervous, ‘cause I was like, ‘Oh my God, I’ve been in their shoes.’” Her empathy for the contestants demonstrates her commitment to being a fair and insightful judge. She worried that she might be too lenient, given her past experiences, but she is ready to embrace the challenge and provide the guidance needed for aspiring artists.
The second season of “Rhythm + Flow” features not only Latto but also esteemed rapper Ludacris and renowned producer DJ Khaled as judges. Collectively, they bring a vast array of experience and knowledge to the table, giving contestants an invaluable opportunity to learn from industry heavyweights. Contestants will have the chance to write new tracks, engage in rap battles, and perform live, all in pursuit of the grand prize of $250,000. This competition provides a platform for these emerging artists to showcase their talent and creativity, bringing forth a new wave of hip-hop innovation.
Despite the competitive nature of the series, many contestants form tight bonds throughout the experience. Contestant Jaxs shared that the journey they undergo is something only the competitors can truly understand, emphasizing the camaraderie that develops amid the pressure. Fellow contestant Rhome added that the production team did a commendable job of supporting the artists, which contributed positively to the overall environment of the show. He noted, “The biggest blessing about ‘Rhythm and Flow’ and Netflix is they stayed true to us,” highlighting the commitment to preserving the authenticity of the contestants’ experiences.
The show also dives deep into the personal narratives of its contestants, ensuring that their stories are not just background noise but integral to the viewing experience. This includes the poignant story of contestant Detroit Diamond, who turned to rap after experiencing a personal tragedy. She expressed her joy in participating alongside many talented women and noted, “Once you got to actually see people perform… it was like, okay, yeah, in the next few years, we’re going to take off and it’s gonna be in great hands.”
As the series is filmed in Atlanta, it captures the essence of the city known for its significant contributions to hip-hop culture. Ludacris emphasized the rich history and diverse styles that Atlanta brings to the genre, remarking, “Here in Atlanta, it’s just one of those melting pots where you just see so many different styles.” This diversity is mirrored in the performances and artistry of the contest participants.
DJ Khaled further echoed the sentiment of discovery, sharing his excitement for finding fresh talent. He reminisced about the first time he encountered groundbreaking artists like Outkast and Jay-Z, saying, “Looking for that new person to break new barriers… that’s what I’m here for.” He and Ludacris serve as guiding lights not just in evaluating talent but in pushing for innovation and new boundaries in hip-hop.
In conclusion, the second season of “Rhythm + Flow,” now streaming on Netflix, not only showcases emerging talent in the hip-hop scene but also provides an engaging platform for personal stories and connections among contestants. With Latto, Ludacris, and DJ Khaled leading the charge, viewers can expect an exhilarating and inspirational journey as they witness the evolution of these artists in the competitive landscape of hip-hop.
