The 2018 XXL Freshman Issue Has Been Revealed

As with every year, XXL Magazine has released their ‘Freshman’ list of artists that are leading the new wave of Hip-Hop…and (as it has been every year) I feel exponentially older each time. There are a few that I definitely do enjoy: J.I.D. is definitely there to satisfy more traditional Hip-Hop fans, while BlocBoy JB and the Floridian trio (Smokepurpp, Lil Pump and Ski Mask The Slump God) have legit bangers that are hard to avoid. Big shout out to the British-repping Stefflon Don — a huge inclusion on said list given how the likes of Stormzy and J Hus (and older dons like Skepta) have been tragically overlooked.

Anyways, check out the full cover below. Plenty more ~~hilarious~~ freestyles and cyphers to come, for sure.

SIDEBAR: I can’t help but notice that there are only 9 this year…did 6ix9ine lose another opportunity due to his penchant for trouble (hence the “We Got Clout” sub-header)?

Image credit: XXL

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ICYMI: 2017 XXL Freshman Cyphers [WATCH]

XXL Freshmen 2017: Who Had The Best Freestyle?

#blocboy jb #J.I.D #Lil' Pump #Ski Mask The Slump God #smokepurpp #stefflon don #trippie redd #Wifisfuneral #XXL #ybn nahmir

Posted By

Jon Powell

Currently working as Senior Editor of RESPECT. Magazine, I (Jon Powell) have 10 years experience in digital and print media -- this includes writing, photography and video editing production. I have worked extensively in Washington, D.C. and London, England and specialise in urban music and culture.