Since 2007, XXL has released its annual Freshman list. The issue features ten rising stars who all appear on the cover of the magazine. XXL's Freshman cover has highlighted several underground rappers throughout the years. Thus it creates significant buzz among listeners and artists alike.
DJ Akademiks posted on his Instagram on Thursday,"#tekashi69 says he wouldn’t be surprised if he DIDNT make the #xxlfreshman list because the game is tryna blackball him." DJ Akademiks then poses a question for his audience, "Does he [takeshi69] deserve to make it??" At the end of the day, it is the people's votes is what matters.
The comments and responses varied, but the problem is more complicated than that. It relates to the magazine and the award itself. Previously, rappers controversially turned down spots on XXL's Freshman List. Some of which include Nicki Minaj, Drake, Vado, ASAP Rocky, Young Thug, PartyNextDoor, iLoveMakonnen, Tory Lanez, and Post Malone.
Source: Hot New Hip Hop
