(AllHipHop News) It appears long-running Hip Hop magazine XXL is joining VIBE in transferring from a print publication to digital only. The New York Post is reporting Townsquare Media is buying XXL from Harris Publications, and the October-November issue of the mag will be the final newsstand edition.
[ALSO READ: VIBE Magazine Ends Print Edition, Lays Workers Off]
The new publishers have suggested printed versions of special issues may be released in the future. Unlike VIBE which is reportedly laying off employees, XXL is said to be looking to add 11 editorial and digital ad sales team jobs.
“We incubated something digitally, but the Townsquare people can take it to the next level with their digital expertise,” said Ben Harris, president of Harris Publications.
XXL‘s most popular issue is the annual Freshmen Class edition where 10-12 rising rappers/singers are chosen to represent the most buzz-worthy newcomers for that year. Past freshmen include Lupe Fiasco, Wale, Kid Cudi, J. Cole, Wiz Khalifa, Big K.R.I.T., Kendrick Lamar, Iggy Azalea, French Montana, Macklemore, Schoolboy Q, and Ab-Soul.
[ALSO READ: Chance The Rapper, Isaiah Rashad, August Alsina & More Discuss XXL Freshmen List & Hip Hop Culture (VIDEO)]