By Rose Miami 
HangupsMusic.com – A decade ago, in a move that would echo through the annals of hip-hop, XXL magazine boldly spotlighted ten emerging artists, a roster that would ultimately blossom into a constellation of some of the genre’s most influential figures. The 2016 XXL Freshman Class, featuring the likes of 21 Savage, Kodak Black, Lil Uzi Vert, G Herbo, Denzel Curry, Lil Yachty, Anderson .Paak, Lil Dicky, Dave East, and Desiigner, wasn’t just a list; it was a cultural inflection point, a prescient declaration of the future sound and aesthetic of rap. Now, to commemorate this landmark moment and the enduring legacy of its cyphers, XXL has joined forces with Rémy Martin to present a new documentary, "The Making of the Most Iconic XXL Freshman Class." This 25-minute deep dive offers an unprecedented look into the meticulous selection process, the pivotal day of the photoshoot, and the profound impact this particular cohort has had on the hip-hop landscape.
The documentary assembles a diverse cast of voices to dissect the phenomenon of the 2016 class. Featured interviews include a significant portion of the class itself: Lil Yachty, Denzel Curry, Anderson .Paak, Lil Dicky, Dave East, and G Herbo. They are joined by industry heavyweights such as DJ Drama, producer Sikwitit, and even emerging talents like 2026 Freshmen Chris Patrick and La Reezy, offering a multi-generational perspective. Supplementing these are insights from music executives, seasoned journalists, media personalities, former managers, and key members of the XXL staff who were instrumental in bringing the Freshman cover to life. Together, they unravel the intricate journey from initial selection to the lasting cultural resonance of the 2016 Freshmen.
XXL’s commitment to identifying and amplifying the next wave of rap talent has been a cornerstone of its editorial mission since the Freshman concept debuted in 2007. In an era defined by the ubiquitous reach of streaming platforms, where new artists emerge with startling frequency, the challenge of discerning future superstars from fleeting trends is a formidable one. Yet, the underlying objective remains constant: to illuminate the artists poised to redefine the genre and ascend to household name status. As XXL Editor-in-Chief Vanessa Satten articulates, the selection process transcends mere popularity or technical rapping prowess. "It’s not a popularity contest, and it’s not just about who’s the best rapper," Satten explains. "It’s who’s got the best chance to be a rap star." This strategic foresight is what elevated the 2016 class from promising newcomers to genre-defining titans.
For members like Denzel Curry, the allure of the XXL Freshman cover was deeply rooted in its storied past. He recalls the impact of previous Freshman honorees, a lineage that inspired his own ambition. "I wanted to be a Freshman because I remember who you had on the cover before," Curry shares, citing a pantheon of artists who had graced the list, including Curren$y, Kid Cudi, J. Cole, Nipsey Hussle, Jay Rock, Lil B, Kendrick Lamar, and Mac Miller. "Of course, we wanted to be part of that legacy and what that might bring." This desire to join an esteemed group underscores the perceived significance of the cover as a validation and a launchpad.
The 2016 class arrived at a pivotal moment, coinciding with a significant evolution in hip-hop’s sonic and visual identity. As the genre began to diverge from the established sounds of the blog era, and streaming services fundamentally altered how music was consumed and disseminated, these artists became catalysts for change. They were instrumental in reshaping the hip-hop landscape, ushering in a new era characterized by diverse stylistic explorations and a heightened digital presence. "At some point, I don’t know where in 2016, but I started to realize, like, Oh, this is a shift in paradigm," Lil Yachty reflects, capturing the sense of collective transition that defined their emergence.
The day of the freshman photoshoot, a traditionally charged environment, became a crucible for forging unexpected connections. Anderson .Paak recounts his initial reticence, a period of quiet observation before the camaraderie began to blossom. "I didn’t know anyone," .Paak says. "I remember just being in my little corner and keeping to myself. And I remember Lil Dicky coming up and saying, ‘I’m a huge fan of yours,’ and that made me feel really good." This moment of mutual respect highlights the underlying appreciation among the artists, fostering an environment where nascent friendships could take root. .Paak’s sentiment that "everyone in that room was a superstar" speaks to the palpable aura of talent and potential that permeated the session.
Central to the enduring mystique of the 2016 XXL Freshman Class is its legendary cypher, a freestyle session featuring Lil Uzi Vert, 21 Savage, Kodak Black, Lil Yachty, and Denzel Curry. This particular cypher distinguished itself through its uninhibited energy and palpable sense of enjoyment. The artists’ clear engagement and evident chemistry transformed the segment into a highlight, solidifying its status as one of the most iconic cyphers in XXL Freshman history. Laura Stylez, cohost of "The Ebro Laura Rosenberg Show," posits that the class resonated deeply with a younger demographic and played a crucial role in solidifying the streaming era for rap. "I believe that Class was for the youth," Stylez states. "Even though people dismiss it as the mumble era, I felt that Class ushered in the streaming era for rap. I think people really started paying attention."
A decade after their introduction, the achievements of the 2016 Freshman Class are undeniable. Its members have amassed an impressive array of accolades, including multiple Billboard No. 1 singles, numerous platinum certifications, and several diamond plaques. Beyond commercial success, their artistic impact has been recognized with multiple Grammy Awards and headlining world tours, cementing their status as global music icons. Leighton "Lake" Morrison, CEO of Generation Now and former manager of Lil Uzi Vert, emphasizes the class’s pioneering role. "I think all of those guys from that XXL Class look back and say, ‘Wow, we really did something special,’" Morrison notes. "They’ll look at themselves as the pioneers of that era of music. And, honestly, for XXL to be able to identify that group says a lot because it’s easier to get it wrong than it is to get it right."
The documentary, a collaborative effort between XXL and Rémy Martin, serves as a comprehensive tribute to the 2016 Freshman Class, offering a compelling narrative of talent identification, artistic evolution, and lasting cultural impact. It is a testament to XXL’s ability to not only predict but also shape the trajectory of hip-hop.
