The 2018 XXL List Has Been Announced

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The official print edition will be available everywhere July 3rd.

The XXL Freshman list has been regarded as one of the ultimate hip-hop gatekeepers since its 2007 inception. While its utility has waned in past years due to the internet’s proliferation, an XXL nod is still a respected distinction nevertheless. Today, after much deliberation, the list has been revealed.

Deemed the “clout” edition, this year’s list unsurprisingly features Lil Pump, Smokepurpp, Ski Mask The Slump God, Trippie Redd, and YBN Nahmir. However, other talented artists who don’t necessarily fit the “clout” model were also included, offering a touchpoint to hip-hop’s lyrical origins. These individuals include Dreamville’s J.I.D, Wifisfuneral, BlocBoy JB, and London’s Steflon Don. The 10th spot, the slot sourced from fan voting, belongs to Lil Skies, who refused to attend the shoot after originally accepting the offer.

Now that the list is finalized, we can expect freestyles, group cyphers, in-depth interviews, and more promotion surrounding the selected individuals, which will be rolled-out over the next month. The official print copy will be available everywhere on July 3rd.