The Next Big Thing Episode Rating Graph

Damon Dash, Tina Davis and Zaytoven give 21 up-and-coming R&B and hip-hop artists 30 seconds to prove they deserve to stay in the competition; the stakes are high as the playing field is cut to 12 contestants.

The League sends the artists to the 3rd Street Promenade to test their skills and to see who can make the most money entertaining crowds; celebrity mentor Joe Budden checks their freestyle flow with a cypher challenge.

Tina Davis puts the artists through an exhausting obstacle course to test their vocal stamina; celebrity mentor Tamar Braxton provides the artists with some jaw-dropping uncensored advice.

Zaytoven shares one of his trap beats with the artists for a freestyle challenge; tensions flare when the artists must break into teams before stopping by Big Boy's radio show and performing live.

Damon Dash offers a crash course in style, fashion and attitude; model and rapper Kash Doll stops by to help the artists upgrade their looks.

One of the artists makes a shocking announcement; celebrity mentor Lil Kim surprises the artists at dance rehearsals and gives them a lesson on commanding the stage.

Hollywood producer and motivational speaker Devon Franklin drops some wisdom on the artists; celebrity mentor Remy Ma has a heart-to-heart with one of the artists.

Celebrity mentor Keyshia Cole gives the final five artists a social media challenge and hosts this week's elimination challenge that tests fan engagement.

The final four are tasked with making a hit song and music video for AT&T's Dream In Black campaign; singer-songwriter Tank and the late rapper Nipsey Hussle help the artists.