Analysis of the 'XXL' Magazine

Conventions

Masthead:

The masthead is placed in the top left corner of the magazine. This may be because in the English language we read from top to bottom and left to right and thus naturally, the masthead is the first thing we would notice. The masthead is also in large, bold writing and it is the most noticeable text on the cover. The letters are white, fitting with the background and embedded onto a red rectangle.

Cover Lines:

The largest cover lines are the names "Dr.Dre" and "Kendrick Lamar". This is because those are the rappers featured in the magazine and thus are significant. The cover lines also say that Dr. Dre brings "Hip-Hop's next big star" which is referring to Kendrick Lamar. This conveys that both Kendrick Lamar and Dr. Dre are widely known and liked by many Hip-Hop fans. Overall, the cover lines are highlighting the significance of these rappers in the Hip-Hop genre.

Main Image:

The main image once again features the two rappers; Dr. Dre and Kendrick Lamar, in a mid/long shot. I believe this is because as these rappers are growing in popularity, Hip-Hop fans would want to know more about them and therefore having them as cover stars is attention-grabbing. Kendrick Lamar is sitting down with his fingers interlocked which portrays solemnity. This gives off an almost intimidating vibe similarly to rap music. On the other hand, Dr. Dre is standing up and is behind Kendrick Lamar. This shows off Dr. Dre's confidence and his positioning behind Kendrick also implies that he is showing off his potential as a rapper.

Furthermore, Kendrick Lamar is wearing lots of jewellery and different coloured clothing whereas Dre is wearing a plain black top with no accessories. I believe this is because Kendrick Lamar is intended to be the centre of attention and Dr. Dre is like a supervisor, it resembles Kendrick being like a boxer and Dr. Dre is like his coach.

Colour Scheme:

The front cover used a red, black and white colour scheme. I believe this is done because these colours are the most eye-catching. Also, one may argue that red is the most eye-catching colour followed by black, which may be why 'Kendrick Lamar' is in red writing and 'Dr. Dre' in black. Lastly, I believe the white colour was used as a background in attempt to make it look blank and thus forcing the audience to focus their attention on the two rappers.