Netflix's hip-hop reality competition series Rhythm + Flow kicks off this week, and to celebrate, two of its judges sat down for a conversation with Charlamagne tha God. The 22-minute clip sees Chance the Rapper and T.I. discussing why they joined the project and what they hope to see from future contestants.
When asked if the hip-hop community would be welcoming of an artist who got their start in a reality program, Chance said they would as long as they remain genuine. "As long as you're authentic, as long as you true to your real story," Chance said.
"Artistry, authenticity, individuality, the same way Chance is in his music, I am in my music, and Cardi is in hers," T.I. added. "Each of our presentations are very unique to who we are. We're looking for the next generation's version of that."
The show, which starts on Oct. 9 and will air in parts until Oct. 23, follows Chance, T.I. and Cardi as they search for the hottest young talent in New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Atlanta.
When the topic of Chance's own come-up was discussed, the rapper explained he wasn't so self-assured in the early days. "I think I doubted myself, but I don't think I ever listened to other people's doubts," Chance said.
The trio also spoke about hip-hop as an extension of black culture, and how not everyone will be able to identify with certain rap. "I listen to Eminem and I love Eminem," T.I. said. "One of the greatest lyricists known to man, but I can't really identify with the things that he talkin' about."
Near the end of the interview, Chance spoke about the way in which Lil Nas X put up a fight to have "Old Town Road" recognized as country. In highlighting his plight, Chance alluded to how no such "litmus test" exists for white artists interested in pursuing hip-hop music. "The Post Malone effect," T.I. quipped, to which Chance replied, "Post Malone is my dude." T.I. made it clear he was still a fan of Post, however; "I love his music, but you can't tell me that ain't Future? There's some Future in there."
Watch the full video above.
