The 2017 XXL Freshman Class has officially arrived, and as expected, the list was the catalyst for an engaging and sometimes heated discourse. While there were some who appeared content, many decried the publication over the snubbing of their favorite candidates, while others simply questioned who some the chosen artists even were.
Even big names like Vic Mensa took some shots at the Freshman Class, and our Twitter reaction compliation unearthed a healthy dose of skepticism. And while these lists are inherently lightning rods for criticism, let us not forget that these Freshmen artists have all earned their place for a reason.
So why not get to know the Freshman Class a little better? And who knows, maybe you'll gain a newfound respect for some of the chosen artists.
Kamaiyah
Representing: Oakland, California
Oakland's Kamaiyah claimed the honor of being the only female emcee to make the cut, beating out competitors like Young M.A. & Cardi B. Her debut mixtape A Good Night In The Ghetto was met with critical acclaim, and a serious co-sign from YG helped propel her into the spotlight. The young artist can even boast appearing on the same track as Drake (YG's "Why You Always Hatin?), which is always a good look. And if you still aren't convinced, Kamaiyah has mad love for Nintendo 64. Check out some of her work below, and if you're a fan of that West Coast vibe, this might be your lucky day.
Notable Project: A Good Night In The Ghetto
Representing: Highbridge, Bronx
Meet the man with the catchiest moniker in hip-hop. A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie holds it down for Highbridge, New York City, proudly proclaiming some hometown love on breakout single "Jungle." His debut mixtape Artist brought him into the public eye, and soon the rapper's melodic style captivated millions of listeners. His success caught the attention of Zaytoven, who provided beats for A Boogie's upcoming Artoven mixtape. Even Drake personally contacted the rapper to talk music and potential collaborations. Keep an eye out for this dude, as he seems to be making all the right connections.
Notable Project: Artist
PNB Rock
Representing: Philadelphia
PNB Rock stands out from his freshmen peers, as he places comparatively closer to the RnB side of the spectrum. During a stint in jail, PNB wrote his first mixtape Real Nigga Bangaz, which scored him a deal with Atlantic Records and the subsequent drop of two more RNB (get it) mixtapes. In 2017, PNB dropped his debut studio album GTTM: Goin Thru The Motions, which featured his breakout single "Selfish" and apperances from Wiz Khalifa & Quavo. If the millions of views are any indicator, PNB seems to have no problem captivating listeners, and the young artist comes to XXL as one of the more established names in the mix.
Notable Project: GTTM: Goin Thru The Motions
Madeintyo
Representing: Atlanta, Georgia
In keeping with the classroom analogy, Madeintyo would be that kid who's heavy into anime, making beats while delving into the latest in Japanese culture. His name, which references Tokyo (where he spent some childhood years), confirms it. The Hawaiian born producer slash rapper found himself looking at a breakout single when his "Uber Everywhere" video went viral, landing him a remix with La Flame himself, Travis Scott. With a vast catalog on deck, Madeintyo has already scored co-signs from Big Sean, Pharrell Williams, and 2 Chainz, and his upcoming album promises to be a big move for the up-and-comer.
Notable Projects: You Are Forgiven
Playboi Carti
Representing: Atlanta, Georgia
With the year he's been having, Playboi Carti needs no introduction. With his Pi'erre Bourne produced summer-smash "Magnolia," Carti has Milly Rocked his way into the hearts of hip-hop fans everywhere. There's no escaping the infectious banger, which most recently popped up in a Sprint commercial, and got both Tyler, The Creator and King Lebron James dancing. His eponymous mixtape was a critical success, showcasing Carti's mix of charismatic rhymes and intense adlibs backed by some wavy production. It's clear that Carti is poised for a massive career, and currently stands as one of the Freshman list's most bankable names.
Notable Projects: Playboi Carti
Aminé
Representing: Portland, Oregon
Like many of his Freshman peers, Aminé has been enjoying some streaming success. His breakout single "Caroline" just went triple platinum, and his video for "Red Mercedes" endeared millions with its blend of surreal comedy and subtle socio-political commentary. The rapper has released several mixtapes, including 2015's Calling Brio, and according to Rolling Stone, he's got well over 60 songs in the vault. With his commercial viability quickly skyrocketing, it's only a matter of time before his comes through with his biggest album yet.
Notable Project: Calling Brio
Kap G
Representing: Long Beach, California (Formerly Atlanta)
As the only Freshman of Mexican descent, Kap G reps his heritage on tracks, switching effortlessly between English and Spanish. His breakout single "Tatted Like Amigos" featured Chief Keef, and since then, he's been slowly amassing a sizable following. From 2014-2016, Kap dropped six mixtapes including El Southside, one of his more well-rounded efforts; if you're interested in discovering Kap, this might be an ideal starting point. The rapper most recently dropped Superjefe, which features Pharrell Williams and Chris Brown.
Notable Project: El Southside
Kyle
Representing: Ventura, California
Meet the man who is taking "real name, no gimmicks" to a whole other level. The simply styled "Kyle" has been touted by some as the most lyrical of the bunch, the rapper has developed his own unique style by mixing feel-good melodies with serious bars. It's clear he never takes himself too seriously, but the opposite can be said of his music career. Kyle already has two studio albums under his belt, and a recent video for "I Spy" featuring Lil Yachty helped propel him into the spotlight, where he landed a deal with Atlantic Records. Fans of early Drake, Chance The Rapper, and B.o.B will find plenty to like about Kyle.
Notable Project: Smyle
Ugly God
Representing: Houston Texas
Ugly God is an interesting addition to the class, especially considering he once proclaimed his music to be "trash." Still, the carefree, goofy artist is undeniably talented, and where he truly shines is behind the boards. He once pitched producing a song for Nas, which shows he's caught up on his homework, and his upcoming Booty Tape will find him rapping, producing, mixing, and mastering. While the Pokemon fiend would probably tell you himself that he's not the most lyrical rapper in the world, he remains a worthy Freshman for his contributions to the production game as well. And you know what? His outlandish character does carry a certain charisma, and his legions of fans would agree.
Notable Project: Water (single)
XXXTENTACION
Representing: Lauderhill, Florida
And finally, the most divisive of the bunch. XXXTENTACION has been making headlines for a minute now, whether it be for his abrasive, lit anthem "Look At Me," beefing with Drake, Rob $tone, and God knows who else, or getting knocked out on stage. You might love him or hate him, but you can't deny that X is a musical chameleon; one day, he might be screaming into the mic for a metal-inspired rap-mosh track, the next he's teaming up with Diplo for a minimalist electro song. Even his acoustic ballad "Garette's Revenge" showcases a versatility unseen in many up-and-comers. Plus, he can actually spit, as evidenced by this underrated gem "Freddy vs Jason." By now, you already know who X is, and your opinion probably won't change. Still, his inclusion in the Freshman Class proves that dude is at least doing something right.
Notable Project: Revenge