In terms of an artist gaining direct access to his or her fans, there's no better social media platform than Snapchat. Indeed, the app has caused artists to blur the line between their public and private personas.

D.R.A.M. has found his biggest hit to date in the Lil Yachty-assisted "Broccoli," which invaded the Billboard Hot 100's top 20 this week. With that being said, he's ready to head out on a headlining tour, announcing some North American dates today.The Spread Love tour will feature select appearances from XXL Freshman Lil Dicky and English indie band Glass Animals. You will find all information concerning tickets at Big Baby D.R.A.M.'s official site. 

Lil Dicky's album, Professional Rapper, may have dropped a year ago, but the rapper is still building off the success of it. He's announced a headlining tour this afternoon, which also comes appropriately timed after he earned his XXL Freshmen spot. Dicky will be supported by two of rap's up & comers, D.R.A.M. and Tunji Ige for his "Dick or Treat" tour.

Stark, acapella, and to the point, the freestyles that XXL produce in conjunction with their annual Freshmen class series stand out in contrast to the list itself, which takes numerous factors into consideration in order to determine the hottest up-and-comers in the game. It's been clear for a few years that being the best pure rapper isn't the only way you can make it there. Maybe you're not the best lyricist in the game but you've got a new sound and a cult following. Maybe you're a street rapper who never freestyles. Maybe you're a singer!

Just because Sap isn’t a household name doesn’t mean you haven’t listened to him on multiple occasions. The Delaware-raised producer has been putting together high-caliber production for some of your favorite rappers for quite a few years; Meek Mill, Mac Miler, Freddie Gibbs, Wiz Khalifa, and The Game are only a few of the emcees who have graced his instrumentals since he scored his first production credit in 2008.

XXL announced their 2016 Freshman Class this morning. PNB Rock, who indicated that he was present at the XXL Freshman cover shoot earlier this month, did not make the cover. Lil Yachty secured the 10th "Voter's Choice" slot.

Forbes, #1 producer of lists of wealthy people, is back with another category of the wealthy. This one is called “Hip Hop Cash Princes,” specifically ranks the rising under 30 stars who have already managed to start a solid bankroll for themselves. Without further ado, the Hip Hop Cash Princes Of 2016: 1) Boi-1da 2) Dej Loaf 3) Fetty Wap 4) G-Eazy