XXL’s 2017 Freshman Class has been keeping busy since the magazine revealed them in June. The roster has released cypher videos to show off their skills, and performed at two concerts livestreamed by REVOLT TV to put in work on the stage. Now, learn a bit about each artist and how the XXL cover came together.

In this video of the cover shoot, each member of the 2017 XXL Freshman Class socialize with other, get some bars off, and pose for the iconic photo. XXL Editor-In-Chief Vanessa Satten also gives an inside look to how the magazine’s editorial staff decides each year’s roster, and speaks about each artist individually.

The XXL 2017 Freshman Class includes Amine, A Boogie wit da Hoodie, MadeinTYO, Kap G, Playboi Carti, PnB Rock, Kyle, Kamaiyah, Ugly God, and XXXtentacion.