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OUT OF TOUCH: XXL Freshman Class 2025


.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:


  1. Gelo – ANAHEIM CALIFRONIA

  2. Ray Vaughn – LONG BEACH CALIFORNIA


  3. BabyChiefDoit – CHICAGO ILLINOIS

  4. Eem Triplin – JOHNSTOWN PENNSYLVANIA

  5. 1900Rugrat – WEST PALM BEACH FLORIDA


  6. Samara Cyn – MURFREESBORO TENNESSEE

  7. Ian – ST. LOUIS MISSOURI

  8. Loe Shimmy – POMPANO BEACH FLORDIA

  9. Lazer Dim 700 – CORDELE GEORGIA


  10. YTB Fatt- WEST MEMPHIS ARKANSAS

  11. Nino Paid- LANDOVER MARYLAND

  12. EBK Jaaybo- STOCKTON CALIFORNIA


  13. 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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