Uploaded July 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago

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Rappers can't freestyle -- because it's too... hard? After the 2026 XXL Freshmen class dropped, hip-hop has been in a frenzy after rapper Rich Amiri claims that freestyling is no longer relevant.

Music journalist Sowmya Krishnamurthy discusses the history of freestyling in qualifying rappers in the past -- and why it's still relevant.

What do you think? And how many 2026 XXL Freshmen artists do you know?

Chris Patrick, La Reezy, Belly Gang Kushington, YKNiece, Skrilla, Trim, Hurricane Wisdom, Babyfxce E, Trap Dickey, Slayr, Sosocamo, and the 10th Spot fan-voted winner, Miles Minnick.

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#hiphop #rapper #rap #journalism #xxl