XXL’s 2023 Freshman Class has been revealed and some of our favorites have been highlighted for their great success.
However, one big new artist was noticeably left out and now fans are trying to figure out why. New York rapper Ice Spice was not visibly on XXL’s latest cover even despite having a few hits like “Munch,” “Princess Diana,” “Boys A Liar” and more.
while many think she has been left off intentionally, a close source to the star is explaining why wasn’t involved. While speaking with TMZ, Ice Spice reportedly turned down the freshman cover due to her hectic work schedule.
While she tried to make it work, she ultimately had to decline a spot on the annual magazine cover after she started getting packed with festival bookings, and feature requests making it difficult to lock in for the Freshman requirements.
RELATED: Ice Spice Explains Who Her Music Is For
Ice Spice has been dubbed the hottest rookie in rap. In addition to collaborating with rap veteran Nicki Minaj, Ice Spice continued to dominate the music scene, solidifying her position as one of the hottest acts of the year as she has achieved the most Billboard Hot 100 hits in 2023 so far.
Although she was unable to be a part of the XXL squad this year, she did grace the cover of Teen Vogue where she talked about her career. Looking back on how far she’s come already, she told the magazine:
“I’m most proud of staying grounded so far because I’ve already been through so many things that I know a lot of people would’ve lost their f*cking minds,” Ice Spice tells Teen Vogue of her transition to fame in less than a year. “The whole lifestyle change is super drastic, especially coming from where I come from, not coming from sh*t and not having a lot growing up, to now — it’s the complete opposite…. Even though it’s a positive change, it’s still a change.”
Right now she says “I’m focused on making more music because I truly love being an artist,” she says. “I love making songs that I’m super proud of. I love when I finish a song and I’m like, ‘Okay, we got one.’ Like, this sh*t is fire.”
Aside from Ice Spice, other heavy new hitters graced the cover for XXL Freshman class including Lola Brooke, Glorilla, Finesse2Tymes, and more.