As a hip hop junkie, i recognize XXL as testament to the culture, worldwide. The inevitable spawn of the SLAM magazine era, destined to hold us down for years. It also helped usher in Gen Y music fans who in turn have become a marketing magnet, shaping the way media is acquired and viewed. XXL and harris publications (?) are dropping the ball. Itunes is the biggest market. Your demographic, your online stans and trending hipsters. Even the tech savvy casuals. Are there issues past dec 2014? I hope your company doesnt look at this like a product that wont be worth the upkeep (if any?).
This mag has been a solid hip hop staple for this culture, and just like the biz, its forever changing. Change with the times or miss out on easy money.best of luck.