The newly inducted 2016 XXL freshman, discuss their love for what they do, their fans, gripes they’ve experienced and other topics at the XXL 2016 Freshman Roundtable discussion. This is following the release of their cyphers and freestyles, which serves to increase their appeal. But despite being categorised as freshmen, this label couldn’t be further from the truth for many of the artists with Desiigner stating, “They call me a freshman, but I know I’m a pro”, backed by the fact that each artist has been impacting and influencing the industry with their individual style and talents for some time. But make no mistake, this year’s freshmen are grateful for the opportunity, as they understand the impact a XXL feature can have on their careers. “A legit stamp, a legitimiser on the hip hop resume. You got some stripes,” said Anderson .Paak.

Only time will tell who emerges as the next big thing from this ‘class’ but ’til then, peep the clips above.

• Words: Bolaji Teniola