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Part 9: Elliott Wilson discusses Eminem’s Dissing of XXL on “Marshall Mathers”, Benzino’s Confrontation in His Office
Part 1: Elliott Wilson talks Complex Media Power List, Vlad Names Someone Who Shouldn’t Be Included
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Former editor-in-chief of XXL, Elliott Wilson, shared insights about his contentious departure from the prominent hip-hop magazine and the following dynamics. Wilson recounted his abrupt dismissal in 2008, citing financial difficulties and internal changes within the organization. He explained that the termination was framed as a cost-cutting initiative due to diminishing advertising revenue. Additionally, he indicated that there was a push for new leadership, resulting in Vanessa Satten’s promotion—a change he viewed as fraught with underlying tensions.
In reflecting on XXL’s trajectory and its rivalry with The Source magazine, Wilson described the era’s confrontational spirit, including the notorious controversy surrounding Eminem’s racially charged tracks. Despite these hurdles, he commended the magazine’s role in enriching hip-hop culture, particularly its backing of DJ Vlad’s mixtapes. Notably, Wilson pointed out that Satten, his successor, had a long-standing dislike for Vlad, which added to the strain during their transitions at XXL.
