John Legend and Mike Jackson on the Power of Storytelling in Rhythm + Flow Season 2
Netflix’s Rhythm + Flow Season 2 is more than just a search for the next hip-hop superstar—it’s a masterclass in authentic storytelling. With judges DJ Khaled, Latto, Ludacris, and executive producers like John Legend and Mike Jackson via their company “Get Lifted,” leading the charge, the show isn’t just about bars—it’s about the story behind the music.
In an exclusive interview, John Legend and Mike Jackson opened up about how the competition reflects today’s ever-changing music industry and why storytelling remains the heart of hip-hop.
The Soul of Hip-Hop: Authenticity and Connection
For John Legend, the storytelling nature of hip-hop is what sets it apart. “Hip-hop, perhaps more than any other genre, is so autobiographical—it’s about who you are, where you’re from, and what you’ve been through,” he explained. “As much as the industry has changed, the way you connect is by being an authentic expert storyteller. The show allows our artists to really showcase that.”
The 22 artists moving forward in the competition represent not only diverse regions of the U.S. but also the unique, deeply personal stories that shape their music. For Legend, this authenticity is what resonates most with audiences.
Reflecting on the Evolving Industry
When asked how the challenges reflect the state of the music industry, Mike Jackson highlighted the importance of cultural relevance and collaboration.
“We reached out to the community—A&Rs like Dallas Martin and Kendrick’s camp—to help define what hip-hop is today,” Jackson said. “We wanted something that felt authentic and contemporary.”
Legend also emphasized the significance of adapting to industry changes while staying true to core values: “Streaming has taken over, and there are so many business factors in play. But at its core, creating music that connects to who you are and what you’ve experienced is timeless.”
What’s Next for John Legend and Mike Jackson
Beyond Rhythm + Flow, Legend and Jackson are already planning their next creative ventures for “Get Lifted Productions.” Expanding the show to more countries and languages is a top priority for Legend. He’s also delving into Broadway again, where he’s even writing rap for one of his upcoming musicals.
“I’m excited to keep building on this,” Legend shared. “We’ve got Broadway shows, scripted series, and so much more. It’s about exploring every avenue of storytelling.”
Jackson echoed this sentiment, explaining how their creative vision remains focused on smart, multicultural content. “Our North Star is creating elevated, thoughtful projects, whether TV, film, or books. That’s what drives us.”
Stream Rhythm + Flow Season 2 now, exclusively on Netflix.
