Time: 2024-07-10
XXL has been a prominent figure in the hip - hop industry for the past 17 years , showcasing new talent and predicting the next rap stars . Each year , a group of artists , ranging from 9 to 12 , grace the cover after proving themselves as hitmakers in the making . The platform aims to highlight buzzing talents who have the potential to become significant figures in hip - hop . It 's not about finding the best lyricist , but rather about identifying artists who embody the spirit of hip - hop at that moment.
One of the main features of the XXL Freshman Class is the opportunity for artists to showcase their rap skills through solo freestyles or group cyphers . While cyphers have garnered more attention over the years , both formats have been essential in defining the Freshman Class . However , in recent years , some artists have opted out of performing , raising questions about the expectations placed on Freshmen in terms of their rap abilities.
The 2024 XXL Freshman Class faced a unique situation when one artist decided to walk out of the shoot just five minutes before the cypher was set to be filmed . This incident sparked discussions within the hip - hop community about the pressure placed on Freshmen to deliver in terms of their rap skills . Lucki , a Chicago rapper , criticized XXL for maintaining the same format for freestyles since 2013 , arguing that it sets the Freshmen up for failure in the current music landscape.
LUCKI 's comments come in response to XXL 's call - out of an unnamed artist who backed out of the freestyle portion of the shoot , citing a pathetic excuse . The incident highlighted the evolving expectations of Freshmen in the hip - hop industry and raised questions about the relevance of traditional freestyles in today 's music scene . The clash between XXL 's established format and the changing dynamics of rap music reflects a broader conversation about the role of authenticity and creativity in hip - hop.
Rich Amiri , a member of the 2024 Freshman Class , later revealed himself as the artist who walked out of the shoot but disputed XXL 's version of events . The controversy surrounding the Freshman freestyles underscores the tension between tradition and innovation within the hip - hop community . As artists navigate the demands of the industry , there is a growing need to reevaluate the criteria for success and recognition in a rapidly evolving musical landscape.
The incident involving Rich Amiri and XXL 's response to his actions shed light on the challenges faced by emerging artists in the hip - hop industry . The debate over the significance of freestyles and cyphers in the Freshman Class reflects broader discussions about artistic expression and creative freedom in music . As hip - hop continues to evolve , platforms like XXL play a crucial role in shaping the narrative of the genre and providing opportunities for new talent to shine.
Ultimately , the XXL Freshman Class serves as a platform for artists to amplify their careers and connect with a wider audience . While the freestyles and cyphers may pose challenges for some Freshmen , they also offer a unique opportunity to showcase their skills and make a lasting impression on the hip - hop community . As the conversation around XXL 's Freshman Class continues to evolve , it is essential to consider the changing dynamics of the music industry and the diverse perspectives of artists and fans alike.
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