OUT OF TOUCH: XXL Freshman Class 2025
- Corey Cool
- Jun 24
- 2 min read
.Every year since 2007, XXL Magazine has dropped its highly anticipated Freshman Class—a cultural roll call meant to spotlight the hottest new talent in hip-hop before they fully blow. Over the years, this list has introduced us to everyone from Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole to Megan Thee Stallion and 21 Savage. Like it or not, the XXL Freshman list is one of hip-hop’s most consistent time capsules.
But here’s the thing: I just saw the 2025 list, and I only recognized 2 NAMES. So naturally, I had to ask myself… Am I out of touch?
Short answer? Maybe. Long answer? Let’s look at this thing together.
A Very Quick History of the XXL Freshman List
Back in 2007, XXL Magazine launched the Freshman cover to put eyes on up-and-coming rappers they believed would shape the future of the genre. Some years were prophetic (like 2010: J. Cole, Nipsey Hussle, Wiz Khalifa). Others sparked debate (2016’s divisive "mumble rap" wave). Still, love it or hate it, XXL’s list has always reflected the current pulse—whatever that may be.
XXL Freshman Class of 2025
Here's who made the cut this year:
Gelo – ANAHEIM CALIFRONIA
Ray Vaughn – LONG BEACH CALIFORNIA
BabyChiefDoit – CHICAGO ILLINOIS
Eem Triplin – JOHNSTOWN PENNSYLVANIA
1900Rugrat – WEST PALM BEACH FLORIDA
Samara Cyn – MURFREESBORO TENNESSEE
Ian – ST. LOUIS MISSOURI
Loe Shimmy – POMPANO BEACH FLORDIA
Lazer Dim 700 – CORDELE GEORGIA
YTB Fatt- WEST MEMPHIS ARKANSAS
Nino Paid- LANDOVER MARYLAND
EBK Jaaybo- STOCKTON CALIFORNIA
PRODUCER ENTRY
Cardo Got Wings- FORT WORTH TEXAS
So, What Does This Say About Me?
If I’m honest, this list isn’t made for me. And that’s kind of the point. The XXL Freshman list doesn’t just reflect popularity—it reflects where the culture is headed, especially in the eyes of the youth.
Maybe I’ve been living in my algorithm too long. Or maybe I'm just more invested in artists who take the long road. But this list reminded me: hip-hop is evolving fast, and the industry isn’t waiting for us to catch up.
I might be “out of touch,” but I’m still tuned in.
Are you familiar with any of this year’s Freshmen? Or are you just now hearing these names like me? Let me know—maybe we’re out of touch together.
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