Even during a global pandemic, XXL still puts together its annual Freshman Class. Is it needed? Does it even hold the same prestige as it did back in the day? I don’t know but it does give me a moment to measure hold old I am and how many “new” rappers I recognize. So let’s take a look at the rappers who made the 2020 XXL Freshman Class:
Polo G: I probably couldn’t name a Polo G song off the top of my head but I do know his albums do well on the charts. He last album was called The Goat.
Calboy: I have no idea who Calboy is.
NLE Choppa: NBA Youngboy Lite?
Lil Keed: Recently heard his song “Obama Coupe” and only listened to it because it was called “Obama Coupe”.
Chika: I have no idea who she is but she is holding the dog in the picture above. Good move.
Lil Tjay: Calls himself the Prince of New York, beefs with other New York rappers, and (allegedly) had sex with Rubi Rose and Chinese Kitty (Yes, I am embarrassed for myself).
Jack Harlow: I first head about Jack Harlow on the Get Up On This podcast a couple years ago but everybody knows him now for having the hit song “Whats Poppin“. He is also the only white rapper on this year’s list.
Baby Keem: I have actually written about Baby Keem and he is also a favorite of Drake. The music video “Moshpit” is still hard.
Rod Wave: I have no idea who Rod Wave is. My bad, I do know who Rod Wave is.
Mulatto: I see Mulatto name pop up here and there but I know she started out on that reality show The Rap Game. Also, her name is Mulatto.
Fivio Foreign: Took up the New York drill movement after Pop Smoke passed? I guess?
24kGoldn: 24kGoldn is the “10th Spot winner” so he probably got voted it. I also have no idea who he is.