Beginning in 2007 (skipping 2008), XXL released its annual Top 10 Freshman list. The issue features ten artists-to-watch, all appearing on the cover of the magazine. The list has a history of showcasing unknown/underground rappers, as well as artists considered to be on the rise. The list creates significant buzz among listeners and artists alike, and is credited for giving many artists their first taste of fame. The Freshman list has essentially become hip-hop’s draft class. And so, it’s fascinating to look back on which rappers were grouped as peers, which have ascended to greater heights, and which have fallen by the way-side. Considering 2017’s list is the tenth class to be anointed, it’s time to rank each list by star-power. Without further ado, XXL’s Freshman Class power rankings, in descending order.
#10–2017
Freshman: Playboi Carti, XXXTentacion, A Boogie wit da Hoodie, PnB Rock, MadeinTYO, Aminé, Kap G, Kyle, Ugly God and Kamaiyah.
Overview: The most recent class is carried by the year’s hottest upstart, Playboi Carti. Simultaneously, XXX, Boogie, Amine, and Ugly God have showcased their potential.
