John Legend Talks Executive Producing ‘Rhythm + Flow’ Rap Competition As A Singer

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"I've been a part of this show as executive producer since the beginning."

During Netflix’s Fan Fest event to celebrate the premiere of Rhythm + Flow season two, John Legend spoke with VIBE about executively producing the competitive rap series—as a singer. Held in Atlanta on Tuesday evening (Nov. 19), the EGOT winner opened up about stepping into the rap game in search of raw talent and what this season of Rhythm + Flow will bring.

As Legend is no stranger to Hip-Hop—hence his early work with Kanye West, Common, and more—his role as executive producer of the competitive rap show takes his musical expertise to a new level. The Grammy winner kicked off the conversation by reflecting on his decision to join a Hip-Hop-centered show—a seemingly unconventional move for an R&B artist.

He shared how his admiration for the genre’s storytelling, innovation, and cultural impact made it an easy choice. “I’ve been a part of this show as executive producer since the beginning,” he explained. “And so we’ve been pitching this to networks trying to convince people that this was a great opportunity to showcase new artists and also give them the development and support and the mentoring that they need to become the best artist they can be.”

Speaking on the beauty of the show and also what fans can expect to see this time around versus last season, he said, “We got derailed by the pandemic but now we’re back and giving new judges, new cities and new artists this opportunity to shine. What’s so different about this show from every other show—as you know I’m on a competition show myself—is that it’s so original.”

“Hip-Hop is so autobiographical,” he continued. “And these people are telling their own stories. They’re not covering other artists. We really get to know who they are, where they’ve come from, and their story really means something to their music.”

Rhythm + Flow season two sees new artists from all over the country compete for $250,000 and receive invaluable knowledge, opportunities, and more. During the weekly process, the competitors get to make their own single, collab with producers and established artists, as well as battle rap. “All of these other things really show who they are,” Legend said of the weekly challenges on the show.

Clearly for John Legend, Rhythm + Flow is a “passion project” of his that goes beyond genres. For him, its about nurturing new talent, celebrating individual artistry, and showcasing the power of mentorship. With footprints in the rap world already, Legend proves that he has no boundaries—even as a R&B singer.

Check out the season two trailer below and stream the first four episodes on Netflix now.