XXL Freshman List 2025 Celebrating Hip-Hop’s Rising Stars
Hip-hop's most prominent platform for up-and-coming artists, the XXL Freshman List, features magazine covers, freestyles, and legendary cyphers. Explore their solo freestyles, cypher performances, and career paths since being included on the list.
ARTIST NAME
Saigon
SUMMARY
Selected for the XXL Freshman Class, recognized as a rising hip-hop talent and emerging voice in rap.
YEAR
2007
ARTIST NAME
Plies
SUMMARY
Featured on the XXL Freshman cover, celebrated as an up-and-coming artist shaping the future of hip-hop.
YEAR
2007
ARTIST NAME
Rich Boy
SUMMARY
Named to the XXL Freshman Class, spotlighted for unique style and growing influence in rap.
YEAR
2007
ARTIST NAME
Gorilla Zoe
SUMMARY
Chosen as an XXL Freshman, gaining recognition for fresh energy and lyrical presence in hip-hop.
YEAR
2007
ARTIST NAME
Joell Ortiz
SUMMARY
Highlighted as an XXL Freshman, praised for lyrical skill and potential in the rap scene.
YEAR
2007
ARTIST NAME
Lupe Fiasco
SUMMARY
Included in the XXL Freshman Class, acclaimed for innovative approach and rising profile in hip-hop.
YEAR
2007
ARTIST NAME
Lil Boosie
SUMMARY
Featured as an XXL Freshman, noted for distinctive voice and impact on the Southern rap scene.
YEAR
2007
ARTIST NAME
Crooked I
SUMMARY
Selected for the XXL Freshman Class, acknowledged for lyrical prowess and underground buzz.
YEAR
2007
ARTIST NAME
Papoose
SUMMARY
Named to the XXL Freshman Class, admired for storytelling ability and street credibility.
YEAR
2007
ARTIST NAME
Young Dro
SUMMARY
Chosen as an XXL Freshman, recognized for energetic delivery and growing influence in hip-hop.
YEAR
2007
ARTIST NAME
Wale
SUMMARY
Featured on the XXL Freshman cover, celebrated for unique flow and rising status in rap.
YEAR
2009
ARTIST NAME
B.o.B
SUMMARY
Named to the XXL Freshman Class, known for versatility and genre-blending style.
YEAR
2009
ARTIST NAME
Charles Hamilton
SUMMARY
Selected as an XXL Freshman, recognized for creative approach and lyrical experimentation.
YEAR
2009
ARTIST NAME
Asher Roth
SUMMARY
Included in the XXL Freshman Class, praised for witty lyrics and college rap appeal.
YEAR
2009
ARTIST NAME
Cory Gunz
SUMMARY
Featured as an XXL Freshman, noted for rapid-fire delivery and technical skill.
YEAR
2009
ARTIST NAME
Blu
SUMMARY
Chosen as an XXL Freshman, respected for introspective lyrics and underground acclaim.
YEAR
2009
ARTIST NAME
Mickey Factz
SUMMARY
Named to the XXL Freshman Class, admired for innovative sound and artistic vision.
YEAR
2009
ARTIST NAME
Ace Hood
SUMMARY
Selected for the XXL Freshman Class, acknowledged for street anthems and energetic performances.
YEAR
2009
ARTIST NAME
Curren$y
SUMMARY
Featured as an XXL Freshman, recognized for laid-back style and consistent output.
YEAR
2009
ARTIST NAME
Kid Cudi
SUMMARY
Included in the XXL Freshman Class, celebrated for melodic rap and influence on new wave hip-hop.
YEAR
2009
ARTIST NAME
J. Cole
SUMMARY
Selected as an XXL Freshman, recognized for storytelling and lyrical depth in hip-hop.
YEAR
2010
ARTIST NAME
Pill
SUMMARY
Featured on the XXL Freshman cover, celebrated for raw delivery and street narratives.
YEAR
2010
ARTIST NAME
Nipsey Hussle
SUMMARY
Named to the XXL Freshman Class, praised for authenticity and entrepreneurial spirit.
YEAR
2010
ARTIST NAME
Freddie Gibbs
SUMMARY
Chosen as an XXL Freshman, acknowledged for gritty realism and Midwest influence.
YEAR
2010
ARTIST NAME
Big Sean
SUMMARY
Included in the XXL Freshman Class, known for punchlines and Detroit rap style.
YEAR
2010
ARTIST NAME
Wiz Khalifa
SUMMARY
Featured as an XXL Freshman, recognized for laid-back flow and mainstream appeal.
YEAR
2010
ARTIST NAME
OJ da Juiceman
SUMMARY
Named to the XXL Freshman Class, noted for Southern flavor and catchy hooks.
YEAR
2010
ARTIST NAME
Jay Rock
SUMMARY
Selected as an XXL Freshman, praised for West Coast revival and group collaborations.
YEAR
2010
ARTIST NAME
Fashawn
SUMMARY
Included in the XXL Freshman Class, admired for lyrical content and underground buzz.
YEAR
2010
ARTIST NAME
Donnis
SUMMARY
Featured as an XXL Freshman, recognized for versatility and emerging presence in hip-hop.
YEAR
2010
ARTIST NAME
Meek Mill
SUMMARY
Named to the XXL Freshman Class, celebrated for energetic delivery and street anthems.
YEAR
2011
ARTIST NAME
Big K.R.I.T.
SUMMARY
Selected as an XXL Freshman, praised for Southern roots and soulful production.
YEAR
2011
ARTIST NAME
Cyhi the Prynce
SUMMARY
Featured on the XXL Freshman cover, acknowledged for sharp lyricism and collaborations.
YEAR
2011
ARTIST NAME
Lil Twist
SUMMARY
Included in the XXL Freshman Class, known for youthful energy and industry connections.
YEAR
2011
ARTIST NAME
Yelawolf
SUMMARY
Chosen as an XXL Freshman, recognized for rapid-fire flow and Southern influence.
YEAR
2011
ARTIST NAME
Fred the Godson
SUMMARY
Named to the XXL Freshman Class, respected for punchlines and lyrical ability.
YEAR
2011
ARTIST NAME
Mac Miller
SUMMARY
Featured as an XXL Freshman, celebrated for independent success and relatable content.
YEAR
2011
ARTIST NAME
YG
SUMMARY
Selected as an XXL Freshman, praised for West Coast sound and party anthems.
YEAR
2011
ARTIST NAME
Lil B
SUMMARY
Included in the XXL Freshman Class, known for internet influence and experimental style.
YEAR
2011
ARTIST NAME
Kendrick Lamar
SUMMARY
Featured as an XXL Freshman, recognized for storytelling and impact on modern hip-hop.
YEAR
2011
ARTIST NAME
Diggy Simmons
SUMMARY
Named to the XXL Freshman Class, admired for youthful perspective and lyrical growth.
YEAR
2011
ARTIST NAME
Future
SUMMARY
Selected as an XXL Freshman, celebrated for innovative sound and influence on trap music.
YEAR
2012
ARTIST NAME
Kid Ink
SUMMARY
Featured on the XXL Freshman cover, known for catchy hooks and radio appeal.
YEAR
2012
ARTIST NAME
Danny Brown
SUMMARY
Named to the XXL Freshman Class, praised for unique voice and boundary-pushing style.
YEAR
2012
ARTIST NAME
French Montana
SUMMARY
Included in the XXL Freshman Class, recognized for hit singles and street credibility.
YEAR
2012
ARTIST NAME
Macklemore
SUMMARY
Chosen as an XXL Freshman, celebrated for independent hustle and crossover success.
YEAR
2012
ARTIST NAME
Don Trip
SUMMARY
Named to the XXL Freshman Class, admired for raw emotion and storytelling.
YEAR
2012
ARTIST NAME
Machine Gun Kelly
SUMMARY
Featured as an XXL Freshman, known for high-energy performances and rapid delivery.
YEAR
2012
ARTIST NAME
Hopsin
SUMMARY
Selected as an XXL Freshman, praised for thought-provoking lyrics and independent grind.
YEAR
2012
ARTIST NAME
Iggy Azalea
SUMMARY
Included in the XXL Freshman Class, recognized for global appeal and bold persona.
YEAR
2012