August 2006
TOP BILLIN’ #83
Cover Story
"Cocaina"
Jay-Z reminisces about his firstborn: Reasonable Doubt.
Features
"Been Through the Storm"
He was overshadowed by 50 Cent when he released his first album. Then, while plugging away at a second one, he was shot in the head. And he recently lost his friend, cousin and label mate, Proof. The things Obie Trice has to deal with…
"Where I’m At"
Can Diddy do it with Bad Boy South and his new artist from A-Town? Yung Joc makes it look like that might just be goin’ down.
It’s been 10 years since Jigga’s first album, Reasonable Doubt, dropped, changing rap forever. In honor of the anniversary, XXL sat down with its creators to discuss the making of the hip-hop classic.
"We Gonna Be Alright"
We first met the Diplomats six years ago. After much growth, fame and fortune for the Dipset rappers, it’s time to jump some new blood into the team. Hell Rell and J.R. Writer fill the positions.
Is Pitbull an MC? Can he spit? Is he part of the Miami rap scene? We weren’t really even sure at first, so we decided to get to the bottom of what the hip-hop Cubano’s career is all about.
Departments
EDITORIAL
Yellow Nigga rants and raves.
FIRST OF THE MONTH
Fuck that “stop snitching” shit, y’all want Busta to help the po-po out.
360
Dear Oprah...
8Ball: Khia
Truth: Lupe Fiasco
Hip-Hop Junkies: Tyrese
Move the Crowd:
The Roots bring the block party to Radio City Music Hall.
SHOW & PROVE
1. Hot Rod
2. Sqad Up
3. Kiotti
4. Unk
5. 40 Cal
EYE CANDY
Akira is a shining light.
THE SHOW
XXL’s Annual Whips Preview
Fashion: Big, tall and in style
Flow: Cover your dome with a classic.
Walk This Way: Air Force 1s are one of a kind.
Games People Play: Rockstar Games Presents Table Tennis, NCAA Football ’07
CRITICAL BEATDOWN
The Jump Off: Pimp C
Classic Material: Ice Cube
Train of Thought: Lil Wayne
Official Bootlegs: Rick Ross
Production Credit: Nitti
Spin Cycle
Ill Techniques: J Love
Chairman’s Choice: Roc C
XXIT
Nas is coming.
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