Benzino, co-founder of The Source magazine, didn’t hold back when discussing Elliott Wilson during a candid appearance on Big Loon’s It’s Up There Podcast. Reflecting on the legacy of The Source, often referred to as the “Bible of Hip-Hop,” Benzino accused Wilson of copying the magazine’s formula when he transitioned to XXL.
“How can you verse something that copied everything from you?” Benzino said, emphasizing what he views as Wilson’s replication of The Source. “If somebody came in here right now, put a table over there—doing the same thing you were but then calling it something else—what are you gonna say? That’s what they did.”
Benzino Labels XXL a “Knockoff”
In his critique, Benzino asserted that XXL could never measure up to the monumental impact of The Source, calling it a pale imitation. He further criticized Wilson’s role in the magazine’s development, dismissing his contributions as derivative.
“The Source was a conglomerate,” Benzino said. “I know clicks and comments, but The Source Awards—did Elliott Wilson ever get big with the XXL Awards? Did Elliott Wilson ever do that? We weren’t just a magazine. We had TV shows, award shows, multimillion-dollar things. They had a magazine that copied us.”
The co-founder also alleged that Wilson’s success was partly tied to his association with Eminem. “And then they got on Eminem’s d*ck, and that was it. That’s the facts,” Benzino added.
Wilson’s Rise in Hip-Hop Media
Elliott Wilson’s career trajectory is well-documented. After joining The Source in 1996, Wilson eventually became the magazine’s music editor. However, in 1999, he left to take on the role of editor-in-chief at XXL and later launched XXLmag.com. Today, Wilson serves as the editorial director for Uproxx, HipHopDX, and Dime Magazine, cementing his status as a significant figure in hip-hop media.
Benzino’s Call for a Cultural Truce
While Benzino’s criticism of Wilson was sharp, he struck a different tone when discussing his long-standing feud with Eminem. In a previous interview on Drink Champs, Benzino expressed a willingness to bury the hatchet with the rap icon “for the culture.”
“There’s a big racist problem in America right now, and Eminem could probably stop half of it,” Benzino stated. “All he’s got to do is come to the table, and that’s the message.”
Benzino’s suggestion underscores his belief in Eminem’s influence and potential role in addressing social issues, a stark contrast to his earlier critiques of the artist.
The Legacy of The Source and XXL
Benzino’s fiery comments reignite the age-old rivalry between The Source and XXL, two publications that helped shape hip-hop journalism. While The Source is credited with setting the blueprint for comprehensive hip-hop coverage, XXL carved its own path, especially under Wilson’s leadership.
The debate over which publication holds the crown remains divisive, but one thing is certain: both magazines have left an indelible mark on hip-hop culture.
Fans React to Benzino’s Comments
As expected, social media has been buzzing with reactions to Benzino’s remarks. While some fans support his defense of The Source‘s legacy, others argue that Wilson’s contributions to hip-hop journalism are undeniable. The renewed discourse highlights the ongoing impact of these publications and the personalities behind them.
