It’s XXL’s 15th anniversary and there’s a very special cover for the mag’s important September issue: Dr. Dre and the newest signee to his Aftermath Records, Kendrick Lamar. The two Los Angeles natives linked up in their home state for a dope photoshoot by Scott Council and an in-depth piece by Kris Ex.

In the story, K. Dot talks about his new album good kid, m.A.A.d city, his family’s violent past, present and future while Dre reflects on his vision for the new MC and the rap legend’s ear. “I don’t have a crystal ball, but I believe that [Kendrick] has the potential to do some really incredible great things–things that are gonna make the veterans raise their eyebrows.”

The rest of the issue lives up to the momentous cover with dozens of rappers and industry heavyweights sharing the rules they learned and live by in hip-hop. XXL’s executive editor Jayson Rodriguez and digital content director Carl Chery document the best albums, mixtapes, singles and videos each year for the past decade-and-a-half. There’s also a look back at every cover XXL has ever done, the crowing of the hottest Eye Candy of All Time, and 15 of hip-hop’s most important trends and styles in the past 15 years. Plus much more in the mag and at XXLMag.com.

Get your copy of XXL’s special birthday on stands nationwide on August 14th.—XXL Staff (@XXL)