Rhythm + Flow is a 2019 documentarian non-scripted music reality television series on Netflix. In a 10-episode season the show sends judges Cardi B, Chance the Rapper and T.I. to America’s hip-hop capitals – Los Angeles, New York, Chicago and Atlanta – on the hunt for the next big rapper. In an improvement on American Idol, the four audition episodes are filmed at real clubs with live audiences, providing a sense of not only raw talent, but also their charisma in front of a crowd. Rhythm + Flow really distinguishes itself once the field is whittled to 30, with a series of challenges that test a range of rap-superstar skills, from collaboration and one-on-one competition to incorporating samples and making music videos. Hip-hop stereotypes are casually shattered. Varied episode formats sometimes yields clunkily paced hours; our eyes glazed over during the round, in which all 30 contestants perform and get critiqued. But for the most part the show works because – on top of recruiting a more distinguished panel of judges than any of its broadcast competitors – it captures what makes hip-hop unique. It honours black culture and regional history, incorporating traditions like the rap battle. Judges push contestants to put their whole selves into their lyrics. The magic of songwriting suffuses every episode. TV may be saturated with music competitions, but Rhythm + Flow is one of a kind.

If you’re into hip-hop, this is a must watch.