May 2011

Lupe Fiasco: After some compromise with his label, Atlantic Records, the Chicago MC earned himself a No. 1 album. So why is Lu still fighting?

Wiz Khalifa: A year after he posed for the cover of our 10 Freshmen for '10 issue, the Taylor Gang general has just released his official debut album. XXL runs down the highlights.

Nate Dogg: With fans, fam and friends collectively mourning his death, XXL takes a look at his life.

Book of Rhymes: XXL wants to know, have rappers completely abandoned the pen and pad?

and... Big Sean, Blind Fury, Nicki Minaj, Jeremih, Maino, Beastie Boys, Kool G. Rap