Throwbacks

50 Cent, “Popular Thug” (Originally Published August 2003)
50 Cent, “Popular Thug” (Originally Published August 2003)
God couldn't have planned it any better. There's still half a year to go but 2003 has already been certified the year of 50 Cent. And it's only right that Mr. Excitement should reunite with the writer and mag who showed him love. Early! Words kris ex Images Jonathan Mannion You love to hear the story again and again...
Nas, “Grown Man Talk” (Originally Published 2004)
Nas, “Grown Man Talk” (Originally Published 2004)
For 10 years, Nas has dropped some of the hottest verses rap has ever heard. Still, he’s had plenty of rocks thrown at his throne. He’s been laughed at, talked about, and ridiculed—but never forgotten. Now, finally the QB poet has found peace of mind. Words Jon Car... Read More ...
Macklemore, “F.A.M.E.” (Originally Published May/June 2013)
Macklemore, “F.A.M.E.” (Originally Published May/June 2013)
Macklemore Was Labeled The Most Obscure Pick For XXL’s Freshman Class Last Year, But He Wound Up Proving All The Haters Wrong. Really Wrong. Words Kris Ex Images Chris Shonting There was that one time when a homeless guy jacked them for some merchandise, Ryan Lewis is explaining. Abou...
Common, “Work Out” (Originally Published December/January 2012)
Common, “Work Out” (Originally Published December/January 2012)
With almost 20 years in the game, Common has carved out a unique niche for himself: the MC's MC whose stardom has eclipsed his music. Words: Ben Detrick Photos: Steven Taylor ON A SUNNY OCTOBER DAY, COMMON ROLLS UP TO CHICAGO’S WEST LOOP ATHLETIC CLUB TO SHOOT HOOPS. HE L...
Clipse, “Way Of Life” (Originally Published August 2002)
Clipse, “Way Of Life” (Originally Published August 2002)
They’re two hustlers, baby! And they want you to know, it ain’t where they been but where they’re about to go. Pharrell’s prized pupils, CLIPSE are the leaders of the new school. Written By: Noah Callahan-Bever Though Malice, the older of the two Clipse brothers, may laugh at the suggestion, it’s clearly true. If one were to reduce the content...
T.I., “U Know What It Is” (Originally Published March 2007)
T.I., “U Know What It Is” (Originally Published March 2007)
He professed it like prophecy five years ago. He lived it in 2006. T.I.’s on the tip-top of hip-hop. But Being King ain’t all rose petals and platinum. Interviews Bonsu Thompson Images Phil Knott Robert Greene calls it the “strategy of the crown.” It’s when a pro...
Pimp C, ‘Tell ‘Em I Said That’ (Originally Published October 2007)
Pimp C, ‘Tell ‘Em I Said That’ (Originally Published October 2007)
Even when he’s apologizing, this Southern legend ruffles feathers. Sensitive-ass liberals should turn the page now. You’ve conducted some interviews recently that expressed some pretty offensive opinions, but you only apologized for your “Atlanta ain’t the South” statement. Any other apologies you wann...
Jeezy, “Living In Pain” (Originally Published March 2006)
Jeezy, “Living In Pain” (Originally Published March 2006)
The biggest new MC in the game doesn't even call himself a rapper. He's a trapper, he'll tell you, just one with a way with words. Complicated, controversial and committed to the cold, hard truth, Young Jeezy, a.k.a. Da Snowman, says he's trying to bring hope to the streets...

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