The people have spoken. Last issue (September 2010), XXL asked readers to write blogs discussing either hip-hop’s current lack of battles or the art-versus-authenticity debate. The five winning essays, selected by our staff, were posted here on XXLMag.com in mid-August and met with an outpouring of comments. See for yourself by clicking HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE and HERE). XXL took a chance and gave you all the power, and you, faithful readers, didn’t disappoint. Job well done.

Feeling very user-friendly, we’ve decided to raise the stakes. But first let’s get y’all in the proper mood. While October is generally recognized for Halloween and all things spooky, the 31-day span is significant for another, less-celebrated, but even more important reason: It’s National Arts and Humanities Month. Meaning, October is designated for United States citizens to stop being lazy and actively participate in various creative outlets. Whether you decide to play an instrument, paint or write, it’s time to get up, get out and do something.

In light of National Arts and Humanities Month, XXL presents a challenge: Travel back down memory lane and tell us, in written-blog form, why you’re such an insatiable fiend for this art form we call hip-hop. Think about when your significant other cheated and 50 Cent’s “P.I.M.P.” put you back in player mode. Or when you wanted to run that jack move and M.O.P.’s “Ante Up” helped you… actually, skip that one. You get the picture.

Every fan has a different story to tell, and we’re ready to hear yours. E-mail all submissions to xxl@harris-pub.com by October 20, with “360 GUEST BLOG CONTEST” in the subject line. The winner will have the opportunity to guest blog on XXLMag.com throughout the week of October 25–29.

Y’all always talk about having the ill pen game, now it’s time to put your money where your mouth is.

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