In hip-hop culture, where talent often goes hand in hand with perseverance, Lil JSean, a Texas Southern University student, is stepping into the limelight as a contestant on Netflix’s Rhythm + Flow. This groundbreaking music competition, hosted by artists Cardi B, Chance the Rapper, and TI, showcases undiscovered hip-hop talent.
On the show, contestants journey through auditions, challenges, and performances, culminating in selecting one winner, who receives a $250,000 cash prize and the opportunity to launch their music career.
The Journey to Netflix
Lil JSean’s path to “Rhythm + Flow” came by chance. A casting call posted by a Houston radio host caught his eye, prompting him to apply without knowing the show’s name or format. After a rigorous five-month casting process filled with auditions and background checks, Lil JSean received the life-changing news that he would be part of the competition. “Me, my mom and sisters were excited,” he recalled.
He found his musical voice in his teenage years, freestyling over beats using GarageBand on a family computer. The tragic loss of his older brother, Dougie, turned his hobby into something more serious. “He would tell me keep going, bro. Your music is hard, so when he passed away in a motorcycle accident, his words stuck with me, and I never gave up,” he shared. Influenced by legendary figures from the 90s rap era, such as Tupac, Biggie, and Nas, Lil JSean’s sound is both nostalgic and refreshing.
The Message Behind the Music
As an HBCU student, Lil JSean aims to embody the essence of his culture through his music. “I wanted to be transparent about who I actually am—a young Black male that loves to learn, that loves to read, loves to take care of my body and pays attention to what I’m eating,” he said. His holistic approach is evident not only in his lyrics but also in his vegan diet lifestyle.
Competing on “Rhythm + Flow” hasn’t been without its challenges. Maintaining focus and memorizing lyrics are crucial, but Lil JSean views these hurdles as opportunities for growth. “Participating in the show gave me a lot of confidence because I was recognized out of tens of thousands of applicants,” he noted. “It goes to show if you are committed to self-growth, you will get recognized eventually.”
Through his performances, Lil JSean hopes to convey a powerful message: “It’s cool to be yourself and that you don’t have to ever fit in.” His authenticity will resonate with viewers and within the broader HBCU community, where discussions around social issues are increasingly vital. “Music has a huge impact on shaping conversations around social issues because, to a certain degree, the public looks to entertainers as somewhat of a voice for them,” he explained.
Looking ahead, Lil JSean has ambitions beyond music, and winning the cash prize could help expedite his goals. He plans to open a vegan restaurant and establish mental health facilities to support the African American community. As he continues his journey on “Rhythm + Flow,” this TSU student aims for musical success and strives to uplift and educate others in the industry.
Keep an eye on Lil JSean—this is just the beginning of his incredible story.