Research - Analysis of XXL magazine

In the magazine XXL, the masthead is designed specifically using the colour red to symbolise passion, power and even lust. The lettering if filled with diamonds, revealing the magazines ostentatious aims. The masthead is the unique selling points it stands out and differs from other magazines. The 'bling' attracts the audience and exhibits wealth.
Above the masthead is the slogan/puff, 'A decade of dominance'. This puff informs the audience of the magazines long lasting success and the use of alliteration makes the puff catchy and easy to remember. Another puff, in bigger sized font is visible- '10th Anniversary. Our biggest issue ever'. The typography of this puff is varied, making it more noticeable and it also informs the reader of the magazines success. The fact that this is the 10th anniversary gives reason for this issue being extra special- 'biggest issue ever'. The point in informing us of the magazines success, is that it encourages the reader to purchase the magazine, with the expectation that it will maintain our interest.

The main cover line, along with the sell lines, are effective because the reference to popular R&B/Hip-Hop artists, attract an R&B/Hip-Hop audience. A variety of artists are listed, increasing the chance that the target audience will be interested in at least one of the artists. The typography of 'Exclusive Interviews' is in a sophisticated style, suggesting that interviews are informative and sensible. Underneath the main cover line, the words 'SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST' are written. It isn't clear whether this is associated with the two big artists mentioned in the cover line, but it will appeal to an inquisitive reader. If there is an association, it could suggest a competition/battle between the two artists. 'Survival of the fittest' can be interpreted as 'The best man wins'. This sub-heading connotes aggression which contradicts the main image, which denotes comradeship.

The main image shows 'Baby Face' and 'Lil Wayne', side by side, almost in an embrace. They both have a lot of chains hanging off their necks, exhibiting their wealth. 'Lil Wayne' has a 'Young Money' chain, used specifically as a tie-in as this promotes one of his labels.
Both men aren't wearing shirts so the top half of their bodies are naked, exposing their several tattoos. Tattoos are expensive so again wealth is displayed. Tattoos are also painful and seeing that they have so many proves their tough, hard persona's. The men also hold serious faces, again showing a rough exterior and confirming the typical gangster stereotype.
However the main image also subverts the audiences expectations as it could appeal to a gay audience. The fact that one man has his arm on another man's half naked body makes the image slightly homo erotic. The exposure of their bodies could attract gay men, especially is gay people notice the close skin to skin contact shared between the artists.

The image is classified as ambiguous because it also may not be directed to a gay audience but could connote protection and exhibit their level of pride as they don't seem to care what others think of their affection. This image could be a portrayal of their closeness and the tattoo that 'Baby' has of 'Lil Wayne' on his chest could signify their strong connection.

I think the magazine is successful in targeting its audience and suits the typical conventions of a HipHop magazine. The use of 'bling' in the masthead and on the artists themselves reinforces the expectation that rappers have wealth. The magazine targets its specific audience with the reference to several popular artists that work within the genre that appeals to the audience.
The magazine cleverly utilised varied typography in the masthead, cover lines and sell lines, maintaining the interest of the reader and implying that the magazine content includes diverse themes and features so the reader won't be bored.