Rhythm + Flow season 2 episode 5 brought a fiery rap battle showdown as contestants aimed to secure their spots in the next round of the competition. Released on November 27, 2024, this episode introduced a new twist with a special appearance by rap legend Eminem, who surprised the competitors with his entry.
Contestants competed at St. Andrews Hall in Detroit, a venue deeply tied to battle rap history and famously featured in Eminem’s 8 Mile. As Rhythm + Flow judge Latto watched, the aspiring artists fought for a chance to win the $250,000 prize and the title of hip-hop’s next big star. The episode featured seven intense battles, with one result saved for the next episode.
Rhythm + Flow: Eminem’s appearance
The episode began with contestants gathering at St. Andrews, unaware of the surprise awaiting them. Eminem walked in, sending shockwaves through the group. Yoshi Vintage captured the moment in a confessional, stating,
“He’s literally Eminem. Eminem is your favorite rapper’s favorite rapper.”
Eminem welcomed everyone with humor, joking,
“Because you’re all here to battle me. I get to do written, and you guys have to freestyle.”
His presence elevated the participants’ energy, leaving contestants like Tia P. in awe, unable to believe what had just happened. She expressed disbelief at meeting Slim Shady, Marshall Mathers, and Eminem – highlighting the rapper’s enduring legacy. Reflecting on his battle rap roots, Eminem said,
“Battling is significant because that’s one of the quickest ways to get your name around town… It trained my brain to always try to take someone’s head off.”
His insights into the art of battle rap set the tone for the intense matches that followed.
Contestants gear up for battle
As they prepared for their performances, emotions ran high backstage. DreTL, overwhelmed after meeting Eminem, shared the moment with his mother over a phone call, saying,
“That man just shook my hand, ma.”
His mom encouraged him, saying,
“Get your head on right, boy. You got this.”
For Jaxs, the experience was deeply personal, she expressed,
“That is the reason I’m a rapper. I’m about to perform in front of him.”
Similarly, LG joked about preserving the memory, saying,
“Eminem shook this hand. Nobody’s touchin’ this hand.”
Tensions flared among some contestants, notably between Dono and Detroit Diamond, as they exchanged heated words. Dono declared,
“I’m in your city. Come on now. We can battle right now.”
The backstage drama set the stage for the intense battles ahead.
Rhythm + Flow the battle round: Matchups and results
Hosted by Smack, a legendary figure in battle rap, the showdown featured seven matchups. Latto, joined by guest judges Mr. Porter, Royce Da 5’9″, and Eminem, assessed the performances.
Here’s the list of battles and results from Rhythm + Flow episode 5:
- Jay Taj vs. RHOME – Jay Taj emerged victorious.
DreTL vs. K’Alley – DreTL emerged victorious.
Bunduke vs. Yoshi Vintage – Yoshi Vintage emerged victorious.
Honie Gold vs. Tia P. – Tia P. emerged victorious.
LG vs. Jaxs – Jaxs emerged victorious.
Sura Ali vs. SeeFour – Sura Ali emerged victorious.
Dono vs. Detroit Diamond – Results will be revealed in episode 6.
The venue’s historical significance wasn’t lost on anyone. Eminem reminisced in his confessional,
“St. Andrews Hall is kind of my old stomping grounds. The battle scene in 8 Mile was filmed in the shelter downstairs. I’ve been here so many times. It’s like a second home to me.”
As the Rhythm + Flow intensifies, episode 5 of Rhythm + Flow season 2 stands out as a turning point. With one battle’s results left hanging, viewers can stream the next episode on Netflix.
