1) Abby Jasmine

Staten Island’s Abby Jasmine was big on Vine as a teenager, and as an almost-21-year-old is currently on tour with T-Pain. Her style of melodic, typically sung trap occasionally leans into full-blown bangers like the above-embedded “No Hook” or contemporary R&B like “Relax”, but is often in the vein of sweetly smug kickback tunes like “Message” or “Tags”. She’s received a Rico Nasty cosign, No Jumper exclusives, and refers to herself as “Trap Mom Abby”. These are signs indicative of impending success, and her increase in output as of last year (that is, full-length videos and promo material outside of the occasional viral tweet) points towards the possibility of a major debut in the near future.

Pull up to the function, and I’m flexing on my exy

If you gonna try and diss me, say it with your chest B

Trying to link, I’m in the telly laid up with your bestie

If I get a nine I’m a motherfucking test it — “No Hook”

2) Asian Doll

Asian Doll is a Brooklyn-based Dallas native, the first female signed to 1017 Records, and is always beefing with Rico Nasty. I hate to make comparisons here — especially given the fact that they currently despise each other — but as a big fan of Rico Nasty I can’t help but recommend checking out Asian Doll’s “Lame Niggaz” and “Rock Out” if you are too. Though most comfortable utilizing her snarled, Southern drawl over bass-heavy street anthems like “MAIN” and “Southside”, she’s explored more melodious avenues like on “Grandson” (above) and on features like Jay Sean’s “With You”. A steady flow of mixtapes beginning in 2016 recently continued with October 2018’s So Icy Princess, and the current year’s stream of music videos, features, and major interviews suggest bigger things to come.

Uzi vert, oou I’ma skrt, Prada purse and I’m a flirt

Pop the trunk like it’s my cherry, leave your bitch ass in the dirt

Lying nigga, playing stupid, I’m not your hoe so I don’t curr

Creepin on the dick, he going swimmin now my stomach hurt — “Lame Niggaz”

3) Bali Baby

Atlanta-based newcomer Bali Baby fully debuted last year with an intriguing blend of emo-rap and pop-punk heard in songs like “Backseat” on an album incredibly named Baylor Swift. As of late, she’s returned to the contemporary trap sound found on her barely-earlier mixtapes, with songs like the above-embedded “AMBER ALERT” and “Big Bad Wolf” making up most of her releases. There’s a lightheartedness present throughout her nine-mixtape-two-album body of work, heard clearly in songs like “Professor Finessor” , but her interpretation of heartbreak and catharsis is also something to take note of (“Backseat, “Few Things”) and watch out for as her network expands and resources become more varied. Sidenote: she is also a former Rico Nasty affiliate who really, really doesn’t like her anymore (“Enemies”). Rico’s lore is far deeper than I imagined.

Big bad wolf, bitch, I’ll blow down your tent

You better not touch me, my shoes cost your rent

When I get done with you, you’re gonna repent

Angel baby, I know I’m Heaven-sent — “Big Bad Wolf”

4) BamSavage

Coral Spring’s BamSavage is turning 19 this Fall, and his major label debut EP came out last month. A couple buzzing SoundCloud singles last year caught the attention of Republic Records, who signed him last summer and pushed out Yesterday’s Tomorrow astonishingly quickly. It’s a typical industry move to grab a trending young artist and gamble on short-lived success, but BamSavage shows potential for persevering — though the distorted headbanger “Commotion” (above) is what you’d expect from a Broward County resident, “Feelings Aside” is a departure from the style entirely and showcases surprisingly masterful trap-crooning in the vein of Yung Pinch.

I am fucking tripping, girl, I’m ‘bout to lose my mind

I just want to love you but the drugs enter my mind

I don’t want to hurt you, I don’t want to waste your time

I can’t feel no love, shawty, I already died — “Feelings Aside”

5)Bandhunta Izzy

Baltimore’s Banhunta Izzy can be found in LA these days, but was popping the hardest when he was back home a year or two ago. That being said, his output is consistently entertaining and his work ethic is apparent with singles being released as recently as last week (“Big Boss”). His cadence shifts between hushed threats and rapid flows on top of drill, trap, and gangsta rap instrumentals, working most fluidly on cuts like “BBB” (above), “Rumors”,and “I Got It”. His Code Blue mixtape is solid throughout, and while his recent output hasn’t reached the same level of exposure as the previously mentioned, the quality has in no way dipped (“Dead Man Can’t Type”).

Ain’t no question who the hottest niggas coming up in the city they know who it is

Young niggas, boss status, with some reputations from the shit that we did

Play with my niggas we hitting ya head, turn the casket to a nigga new bed

I don’t never talk, I ain’t saying no words, so a nigga don’t say they heard shit that I said — “BBB”

6) Benny the Butcher

Buffalo’s Benny the Butcher is a Westside Gunn affiliate, Alchemist collaborator, and nostalgic, grimy 90’s New York hip-hop revivalist. His storytelling is classic NY — murder tales snail-paced over paranoid boom-bap, with clever lyricism punctuated by long-winded ad-libs [*GRRRRRRRRR!*]. The Griselda Records crew has long since carved a lane of their own, receiving critical acclaim and nods from major publications, but may not carry the same mainstream appeal a many of the artists on this shortlist. That being said, Benny is a rarity and a professional at his craft, exemplified by cuts like “Broken Bottles” and “Rubber Bands & Weight” (above).

Y’all like these rappers, but I don’t find it amusing, no

I don’t buy they movement, so I don’t buy their music

I wrote get rich manuals where I provide the blueprint

And with pride, I preach this new shit, just like I’m inside a pulpit — “Broken Bottles”

7) Bhad Bhabie

God bless. I said Boynton Beach’s Bhad Bhabie would disappear by the end of last year. But I also said that part may not be true, so I get partial credit. She’s still doing her thing — that is, attitude-riddled club trap with addictive hooks linked up with excellent features — and consistently racks up tens of millions of views, so to be perfectly honest I don’t think Bhad Bhabie even needs to be a Freshman. She’s a fucking professional, that’s for sure. (“Juice”, “Bestie”)

Comin’ out hard like ’88, make a bitch levitate

Babyface savage, bitch, I don’t play Patty Cake

Charms in the carrot cake, carats in the Patek face

Cop a new coupe, no top, that’s the Cali’ way — “Babyface Savage” (above)

8) Blueface, baby

If all you’ve heard from LA’s Blueface is “Thotiana” and the other “Thotiana”, I unironically insist you watch (yes, even the first half) & listen to “Respect My Crypn” (above). First, his fingers are spiders — amazing. Second: the charm, self-assurance, and moments of undeniable flair are clearer than they’ve been for any hip-hop star in years. Outside of being unfairly good-looking for a goofy, briefcase-and-mop carrying Crip, Blueface’s utilization of offbeat flow, earworm adlibs, and clever one-liners makes him a legitimately excellent entertainer. I’d hate to see him cemented as a one-hit wonder and remembered only for “Thotiana”, because I really do believe songs like “Bleed It” and “Deadlocs” are tracks that couldn’t have been made by anyone else. [*Yeaaaight*]

Fuck a handgun, bitch, I brought a MAC in (MAC in)

Gotta keep a technical in case a nigga hackin’ (Hackin’)

Glock with a dick on my lap, I’m in traffic (Traffic)

My pistol bloated, ready to unload it (‘Load it) — “Bleed It”

9) Bobby Sessions

As a musician, Bobby Sessions has a scattered, quiet past. Searches bring up pieces of history — he was part of a Dallas collective known as ‘Brain Gang’, posted now-deleted music videos shared on blog posts from 2011 to 2015, and released two projects prior to signing to Def Jam in 2018. From here we pick up with last year’s XXL Freshman candidacy, where Bobby’s available catalog included a single music video for the distorted, exasperated “Like Me”. But today, it’s expanded to a variety of creative hardcore and conscious hip-hop releases, including the defiant protest cut “Politics” and soapbox-simulator “Black Neighborhood” featuring Killer Mike. Who does he sound like? I badly want to say Kendrick Lamar and J Cole. Louder, more on-the-nose, and very clearly through influence, but he is similar: lyrically, in cadence, and in delivery. His talent to exposure ratio is criminally low. With a recent ELEVATOR feature for “Dirt On Your Trophies”, I pray for a more rapid Bobby Sessions comeup.

I see an end for the antics, while CNN show reactions

The activist versus analyst panel, let’s have a fight

Pan a camera, the people ask is Kaepernick in the right

It’s a domino effect, every issue ain’t black and white, but a lot are — “Politics”

10) Boogie

Boogie hails from Compton and sounds like an Los Angeles summer weekend. He isn’t a new face: his brand of vibe-heavy West Coast hip-hop (“Sunroof”, “Nigga Needs”)has racked up solid view counts for years now. A distinct voice and powerful command of storytelling make him an engrossing listen and versatile talent, and one of my favorite artists in the running. He’s also received cosigns from Kendrick Lamar and Rihanna, which are potentially worth considering above mine. Though his 2017 signing to Shady was rightfully viewed with uncertainty, given the label’s lack of star-forging prowess, it at least came with a free Eminem feature on his now most popular single, “Rainy Days”. Hopefully this, alongside a stream of well-received singles like the recent “Soho” with J.I.D and this month’s “Skydive” can net him a spot in the class.

Word to the feelings I channel, I lose ’em as quick as a fuckin’ remote

Don’t be callin’ me woke, I cheat on my queen for a ho

That’s how shit go, she keep sayin’ we chill, she gon’ come out her shell

Ain’t no pushin’ my buttons, when all of my feelings is stuck on “oh, well” — “Rainy Days”

11) Bri Steves

Philly’s Bri Steves shies away from her contemporaries’ overwhelmingly trap-focused musicianship in favor of a bouncy, melodic style reminiscent of hip-hop’s female golden age. Her soulful cadence and charismatic delivery brings to mind icons like Lauryn Hill (“Jealousy”, above) and Foxy Brown (“Miami”), with occasional aggression akin to Missy Elliott (“Ain’t Shit”), albeit on more contemporary sounding instrumentals and Atlantic-backed production. That’s not to say she’s just a vessel for prettily-produced music — Steves is a producer, sound engineer, and multi-instrumentalist who often takes care of the entire process herself. Though not at the forefront of Philly’s current mainstream offerings, she’s a clearly talented musician with a promising career in front of her. And she has a Kendrick cosign, by the way.

They fuck with the vision, yeah, heard I gotta die in the kitchen

They ain’t know I was vicious

I’m a savage, baby, fuck around and bag your baby

Why you mad? Philly maybe — “Late Night”

12) Caleb Brown

Atlanta’s Caleb Brown attempted last year’s XXL Freshman Class with a limited and relatively lowkey body of work, resulting in a pitch video littered with dislikes and negative comments. Today, Brown’s catalog includes a few more music videos, but is still without much traction, with most songs sitting under 50k views on YouTube. That being said, his brand of distorted, murmured (sometimes yelled) SoundCloud trap (“DIE A LEGEND”) is a solid representation of the scene, and worth listening to if you enjoy the mainstays of the genre.

We ain’t itching for no trouble, having fun just want to laugh

Keep a mac up on his hip in case them haters mug him back

We came up on cash money, UGK, and death row

All the folks be pouring lean, smoking weed, and clutching fours — “Hangin’”

13) Cee Kay

Pine Bluff, Arkansas may have their first big export in hip-hop on their hands. It’s difficult to pinpoint where Arkansas hip-hop draws from: “Deja Vu” is reminiscent of golden era drill a la Chief Keef in its nihilistic violence, though the song’s atmospheric production (and that of “No Remorse” embedded above) results in a more sluggish, cloudy experience. Another infant Republic pickup (except he’s got a City Morgue cosign), Cee Kay evokes YoungBoy NBA in his darkly melodic murder-trap anthems. Speaking of which, he’s hit 2 million views in a month with the video for March’s “Pressure” ft. YoungBoy himself — an outstanding collaboration that displays a real confidence beyond his 19 years.

Pull up, it’s DOA, I’ma shoot that lil’ bitch in his face

Then I go MIA, I’m shootin’ out to another state

Then hit up Nobu, where you at? Go get that dirty K

I just fucked around and sent me a nigga up to heaven gates — “Pressure”\

14) Chris Matic

If nothing else, please just watch this freestyle by Kingston, Jamaica’s Chris Matic. It’s very good and he sounds like a patois Jay-Z. Unfortunately his very sparse body of work doesn’t allow for much of a profile. There are bits and pieces of quality, nostalgic boom-bap (“Calories”) and some assorted trap (“Extendo”), but I don’t believe it’s enough to make Chris a contender.

Family trynna function outta poverty

Mama trynna be the Daddy caz the daddy had to leave

You know daddy caught a body did a couple robberies

But the person that he killed was trynna kill him for his keys — “Calories”

15) Coi Leray

At 21, New Jersey’s Coi Leray is exploding with charisma and self-assurance. The above-embedded “Huddy” is nothing less than an objective bop, with Leray’s music video presence suggesting real confidence on the screen and potentially on the stage. One of the more popping recent Republic signees, there’s a definite sense of songwriters in the picture, with melodic endeavors like “Good Day” showing up recently. Her energy is more palpable on trap joints like “Tricks”, however, and is significantly more interesting. Some assorted recent Billboard and All Def features are signs of positive momentum — let’s hope her relationship with Trippie Redd doesn’t ruin it.

Lookin’ at my future, it’s on beast mode

I don’t trust these niggas, I just play it by the G-Code

Got a nine for you, put it in my peacoat

Bust down, run now, nigga that’s that gun sound — “Huddy”

16) Comethazine

I feel like Illinois’ Comethazine is the very last SoundCloud rapper. As quickly as the wave of loud, eccentric, hook-centered trap took over, it already seems to be taking its leave, as Lil Pump’s view counts begin to dip and various participants find themselves in jail or dead. Comethazine has fun songs, for sure — I can see how the above-embedded “Walk” could start moshpits and “NONSENSE” could help you hit your PR. But it already feels impermanent, trendy, and at times overdone. And given his viewcounts and current appeal, this isn’t to say Comethazine doesn’t have a great chance of being a part of this Freshman Class, delivering a solid freestyle, and participating in an explosive cypher performance. I just feel as if it’s necessary to take note of what Comethazine represents, what with his reduction of trap bangers into minute-long catharses (“DeMar DeRozan”) and focus on extended hooks: if this kind of sound is what you want, then Comethazine is as pure as it’ll ever be.

Pop out on a pussy, nigga, what the fuck up?

Gas pack strong as fuck, my blunt be doing push-ups

If you ‘bout that action, tell that pussy nigga buck up

You be talkin’ hella tough on Twitter, pull the fuck up — “Walk”

17) Cuban Doll

Better known as a Dallas social media star, Cuban Doll makes gangster rap on the side. And outside of being the subject line for countless Lipstick Alley threads, she’s maintained a consistent music career since 2016, while then still working as a model and personality. Her frequent collaborations with Molly Brazy are highlights, given the pair’s similarities in energy and content (“Let It Blow”) — that is, when they’re both making middle-fingers-up trap music. Her recent material feel like an unfortunate departure from the style and and awkward change in sound (“Pussy Worth”). She’s got competition — there’s two other Dolls on this list, and none of them are friends.

You just figured it out, bruh, you late bitch

You a broke bitch you ain’t got no bands to play with

Somewhere out in Cali do the dash in a spaceship

You somewhere in the crib looking mad cause you ain’t shit — “Bankrupt”

18) DDG

Michigan’s DDG, like Cuban Doll, is an already-popular social media personality. Unlike Cuban Doll, his main hustle is clickbait-riddled daily vlogs on YouTube (they’re all terrible. All of the videos are awful.) with loads of assorted content including prank videos, reactions, and fucking mukbang. And he sells merch, which people buy. But he’s also a rapper — when he isn’t busy ethering absolute titans like Lil Yachty (“Big Boat”) and Ricegum (“RICEGUM DISS TRACK!”) he make parody-tier trap like “Take Me Serious” that could pass as sketch comedy if he didn’t take himself so seriously. YouTube rap isn’t quite ready to go legit yet.

Gas station 2am, bought some Hershey’s out the wrapper

Don’t compare me to a rapper, I make more than a rapper

Go to school for 4 years, 50K be a salary

I just made 50K in a week, take a pic for my gallery — “Take Me Serious”

19) DaBaby

If Charlotte’s DaBaby can’t capture your attention with his nonstop flows and infectious energy (“Next Song”), he’ll do so with his eccentric music videos (“Walker Texas Ranger”) or his publicity stunts. I first heard DaBaby in much less lighthearted circumstances in his collaboration with North Carolina peer Deniro Farrar (“The Dealer”), which speaks for his versatility — as for his work ethic, his frequent and ambitious output with Reel Goats has resulted in viral success, and as of late marks an upward trajectory in momentum and star power (“Baby Sitter” ft. Offset). But I doubt any of it would be quite as effective if he wasn’t overflowing with charisma, seen plainly in his videos and heard crystal clearly through his confident delivery and ear-to-ear grin-filtered cadence. Have you seen dude’s smile? His Interscope signing is irrelevant; DaBaby was going to be a star anyway.

You disrespect me and I’ll beat your ass up all in front of your patnas and children I’m the type to let a nigga think that I’m broke until I pop out with a million

Take 20K and put that on your head and make one of your patnas come kill you Say he fuckin’ with me then he gotta grow up, cause this nigga gotta be kiddin — “Suge”

20) DaniLeigh

Miami’s DaniLeigh isn’t quite as focused on lyricism as she is on providing a vibe to feel and more importantly, a bounce to dance to. Originally finding success in viral dance clips, she’s added her voice to the mix: singalong hooks and neo-soul-esque melodies over pop-laced trap instrumentals. As a performer, she‘s got it on lock: “All I Know” and “Lil Bebe” showcase an entertainer who can kill the whole show if she feels like it. In regards to her as a rapper, it might take some time before her music moves past being a vessel for the dancing.

Tell me are you crushing? Do you love somebody?

Get them dollar signs before you trust somebody

One sip have me leaning, you’re stressin’ for no reason

Go easy on me, please, baby, drop down, now repeat it — “The Plan”

21) Danny Towers

Orlando-based Members Only affiliate Danny Towers has very little content out, and his most well known appearances are on other people’s songs (“GEEKIN” by Ski Mask The Slump God, “Just A Year Ago” by wifisfuneral). What’s available manifests in growled and murmured flows over murky trap instrumentals, and though his lyrical catalog is sparse, he’s showcased bars in other ways (“Danny Towers Freestyle”). There’s hushed word on Twitter that his project is ‘right around the corner’, but there isn’t one yet, and the lack of regular content may be preventing a garnering of interest.

Ay, 3 splits, 2 zips, 4 halves, 1 whole, 1 pour unfold up

Oh drum roll, jump rope, motherfuck a gun control

Bet he buildin up with you tryna get in the middle to put yourself in a pickle

A nigga ready to rumble shit these days, fuck a minimal wage — “MOTEL HELL”

22) Don Toliver

Houston crooner Don Toliver hasn’t broken a half million views on any of his own YouTube videos, but everyone heard him on Travis Scott’s ASTROWORLD as the best feature on the album (“Can’t Say”). His distinctive voice aside, Toliver crafts some fascinating melodies on “Back End” and “I Gotta” in the vein of early Young Thug and pulls together some clever bars. It’s a wonder he hasn’t blown up, because the guy really knows what he’s doing and has a solid — albeit clearly underappreciated — body of work. Though it’s not likely, I want to believe that Don Toliver would absolutely destroy it as a Freshman.

It’s a set up (Huh), keep your head up

Shawty got her edges (Huh), she keep her hair done

Pull up in a wrecked whip (Huh), it’s a red one

She don’t do no friendships (Huh), she gon’ take some — “Diva”

23) DreamDoll

DreamDoll’s power level in comparison to the other Dolls is lacking. Speaking of social media stars turned rappers, Dream Doll went from trying to pull the Bronx-ratchet-turns-rapper on Love & Hip-Hop to streaming seafood boilswith YBN Almighty Jay. Irrespective of how she works in relation to the Internet, Dream Doll’s musical output sounds like watered down versions of other dolls, with a much higher focus on sex appeal than music. I really, really don’t mean that as a misogynistic dig, either — “We All Love Dream” is barely a song.

I be everywhere, you keep it local (local)

You got a problem, I will approach you

You wanna solve then keep it vocal

We in the mix, I ain’t talking Pro Tools — “Pull Up”

24) Fijimacintosh

Canton, Ohio’s Fijimacintosh allegedly inspired his cousin Trippie Redd to start making music when he was just a kid — now that he’s almost 20, he’s found himself touring with Smooky MarGielaa and creating his own brand of melodic, saccharine trap ballads (Note: The vaporwave aesthetic doesn’t have much to do with the sound itself, save for the cloudy nature they both share). His recent No Jumper debut (“Red Pill, Blue Pill/Glock Box Pt. 2”) showcases a young artist who’s already gained a significant understanding of their craft, and though he hasn’t broken through yet, it sounds like he definitely will.

I thought that I told you I was never gonna lose

I’m with 777 breaking all the rules

I remember hopping gates and running after school

Now I’m in a Bentley or a newer Beamer coupe — “Demon Slayer”

25) Flipp Dinero

New York’s Flipp Dinero exploded with the above-embedded “Leave Me Alone”, which went viral late 2018 thanks to an OBJ Instagram feature. Sitting in the intersection of trap and pop rap, Dinero’s music features a distinctively husky flowing cadence moving between rapid-fire delivery and somber, melodic hooks. Though his recent brand of party anthems hasn’t reached the same level as “Leave Me Alone”, this year’s “Feelin Like”garnered a cool million in a relatively short period. And while the music isn’t pulling in superstar numbers, a Google search brings up his name in a ton of new published content, and a recent Tay Keith collab (“If I Tell You”)suggests a hopeful upward trend.

I wanna look wild when I flex it, get diamonds all up in my necklace

Got foreign all on me like Tetris, get mama the crib she requested

Niggas hatin that’s their occupation, they can’t stand to see another nigga make it

This shit here like history in the makin, this a fuckin shot so I’ma fuckin take it — “Time Goes Down Remix” ft. G Herbo

26) Gunna

Young Thug protege and YSL affiliate Gunna isn’t a carbon copy of his mentor anymore. Though plenty of similarities drawn between himself, Lil Baby, and Thugger still ring true — especially in regards to their syrup-drowned flows, melodious cadences, and luxury-related lyricism — Gunna’s name can be mentioned by itself in 2019 (though it’s often said along with Lil Baby’s). I feel as if it’s more pertinent to note his consistently excellent features on songs like Travis Scott’s “YOSEMITE” and 21 Savage’s “can’t leave without it” than to speak on his individual releases, given how much more appreciative I am of him when utilized sparingly rather than on a 16-track tape. Thanks to a hugely successful year of collaborations on solo releases, his Freshman status seems inevitable — though I don’t really know if he even needs it anymore.

‘Nother backend, I’m back on the road, flooded Patek, paid off a show

Drippin’ is rare, more this Vlone, hoes by the pair, I’m never alone

Sleep on the Lear, Comme des Garçons, drop eight in a two and let it dissolve

Balmain my denim, yung Gun wanna ball, rock the whole concert & hopped in a frog — “Sold Out Dates”

27) Icy Narco

Look, I thought Lil Pump had flunked out of last year’s class when I saw Icy Narco’s thumbnail in the list. Listen to the above-embedded “Link” and tell me it doesn’t sound like an old Pump cut. Icy Narco is from Miami, so how he looks and sounds isn’t necessarily surprising, but how closely he resembles Dr. Pump is…uncanny. He’s signed to 10k (formerly home to 6ix9ine and Trippie Redd), or used to be, at least, and No Jumper put him on around this time last year (“#RONNYJKILLEDTHIS”). The Florida influence he wears is palpable, with an assortment of screams, muttered flows, and [AyYYYY]s punctuating most tracks. In any case — if you like Lil Pump, there’s a chance you might enjoy Icy Narco.

Ducking the bullets, they fly and you might be the goose

Jimmy Choo all in my shoes, I got some blood on my shoes

Icy is frozen can’t move, helipad heli and went on the roof

My snipers freeze up the roof, shoot at the Uber, we shoot at your coupe — “Link”

28) JayDaYoungan

JayDaYoungan is 20, but his incredibly punctual and consistent output of popular Louisiana-laced trap has been in continuous rotation since he was 17. A frequent collaborator with the South’s youthful underbelly powerhouses (such as NBA YoungBoy, Quando Rondo, and Yungeen Ace), Jay follows their model of high visual saturation and releases music videos nearly every single month. It’s an incredibly admirable work ethic that secures a fanbase and addresses an always-watching market, with some videos garnering millions in weeks (“Repo”) and some hitting the tens-of-millions in month (“Thot Thot”). Again, his domain seems to reside under the more mainstream channels of hip-hop, especially on an international scale, so his popularity may not translate to XXL status — but he likely doesn’t need it to begin with.

Streets talk, a lot of shit got me in deep thought

Full of meds, eyes red and I sleepwalk

Sleep talk, eleven doses got the heat out

Gang shit, this bitch’ll knock a nigga knees out — “Purge”

29) Jordan Hollywood

As is the case for many who are eager to enter the running and lack a national following, Jordan Hollywood’s XXL video got wrecked. I was surprised: though a majority of his YouTube releases haven’t quite broken a million (“Leave Me”, “Finally”), the video for “Let Me Find Out” (above) features Lil Baby on the track, Offset hanging in the back, and a lot of ass — all things that typically guarantee success. While his apparent lack of notoriety (despite being a QC signee) may keep his status submerged for now, I wouldn’t doubt his ability to appeal to the masses. There’s some mixture of sullen Post Malone and Miami-born luxury flows present that I’m confident plenty could get behind.

I wish you would but you laminate, we know you fakers are mimickin’

I wore a presidential rollie, bitches think that I’m a candidate

When it comes to all my cups, it’s double or nothin’, no gamblin’

You a mumble rapper ramblin’, no quarterback but that chopper have you scramblin’ — “Let Me Find Out”

30) Juice WRLD

There he is. Juice WRLD is going to be a Freshman (if he takes it, or even wants it). The Chicago-born emo/rap crooner is currently in his prime, with every song hitting millions of views and every video acquiring viral status. Think what you will about his music: he’s hitting a niche like many haven’t been able to, and he’s doing so in a masterful fashion, exemplified in the above-embedded “Robbery” — I don’t know who else could have made this song and receive such positive reception. His ability to craft earworm melodies is apparent in “All Girls Are the Same”, and a peek at his freestyles like this or this are solid proof of his lyrical chops, even if they aren’t often the focus of his music. There really isn’t much to say here in regards to his popularity: whether you like him or not, you’ve definitely heard of him.

Chopper make your brains turn to eggs, Sam-I-Am

I had a feelin’ they was gon’ switch up, ​will.i.am

Two pints of Wockhardt, sealed up, in my hand

Clean nigga, but I’m sippin’ ’til I do the muddy dance — “Out My Way”

31) Kid Buu

Possibly the most despised person this candidate list, New Jersey’s Kid Buu still manages to net millions of hits on his songs. Why is he overwhelmingly disliked? Here’s a video I wouldn’t watch too much of. That aside, his music, imagery, and persona revolves around clout culture taken to near-parody levels of extremity. If you identify with graphic tees with guitars on it that read ‘ROCK’ or ‘MUSIC’, then you will thoroughly enjoy how Kid Buu, in a similar fashion, reads ‘SOUNDCLOUD’.

Talk about diamonds, my wrist full

You are a rat, Stuart Little

Fuck on that bitch like a Shih Tzu

Give her bomb dick like a missile — “Poppa”

32) Kid Trunks

Members Only affiliate, Broward County resident, and 18 year old trap monster Kid Trunks really sounds like all of those things. That isn’t a slight — his imagery, sound, and lyricism are the purest strain of distorted, youth-driven Florida trap, exemplified in dissonant flex anthems like “IDK”. While the MO crew hasn’t dissolved completely in regards to mainstream appeal, there’s a definite sense of his sound receiving more attention two or three years ago. That being said, an undeniably loyal fanbase could find him a spot, given Wifisfuneral (another MO affiliate of similar popularity) appearance last year.

And if you disagree just dig a hole, lay down, and go die

I’m gon’ be rich and all my niggas’ gon’ have on suit and ties

And if you talk down the ting gon’ bring the heat, then let’s go and fight

You is so stupid pussy boy you do not care ‘bout your life — “Not Legal”

33) Kodie Shane

Lil Yachty’s Sailing Team collective took in Kodie Shane sometime in 2016, allowing her to enjoy an active year with songs like “Sad” and “Hold Up”receiving critical and mainstream attention. The Atlanta-based rapper/singer specializes in sugary-sweet melodic trap that isn’t out of line with Yachty’s sound, though she can absolutely sing better — and as she’s worked on her craft, can construct better hooks, evidenced by the recent breakup anthem “Flex On Me”. She hasn’t racked up the view counts of her 2016 singles as of late, but solid new material and a sizeable fanbase can keep her in steady relevancy.

I got players on my line now, uh

I can’t lie I want you right now

Pop a perc and she can feel my vibe now

Light the flame and do not let it die out — “Flex On Me”

34) Insomniac Lamb$

SoundCloud hidden boss Lamb$ might never receive the attention he deserves. The Cincinnati-born emcee is an Internet rap veteran with a long list of similarly-guided peers — Maxo Kream (“Clientele”), Lil Uzi Vert (“Nauseous”), and Playboi Carti (“2 Door”) among othes. Lamb$’ material ranges from vibe-centric drug mantras to lyrical, dark trap meditations, bringing to mind a gloomier Future who actually sips lean. But Future is also both internationally famous and a notorious workhorse — and while Lamb$ is an excellent artist with great potential, his lack of consistent material and mainstream appeal will hinder a real breakthrough in popularity.

Ancient steel, hermit AK-47 slingin’

I’ma cut my migo for the month, we still leaning

Speedin’ down Melrose, speedin’ down Fairfax

Up right now and still I take off with a nigga pack —

35) Gnar

Atlanta skater-turned-rapper Gnar has an admirable history in regards to his brand, hustle, and DIY prowess. After G*59’s Germ educated him on merch sales around 2014, a 17-year-old Gnar pushed his own skate-centric brand — GNARCOTIC — through Twitter, quickly networking with artists that he’d go on to work with, including Robb Bank$ (“I’m That Nigga”) and Shakewell (“Beatin Down Yo Block”). Since then, he’s become a SoundCloud trap mainstay and frequent Lil Skies collaborator, with songs like “Grave” and “Drop Top Benz” breaking millions of views. More of a brand than a uniquely-visioned artist, Gnar may be enjoying the highest point of his popularity thus far.

VV’s shining, and they looking like some sun rays

Slap a pussy nigga if he start talkin’ craz

Slap a lil nigga if he start talkin’ braz

Collect the pain while I’m going through these changes — “Grave”

36) Lil Gotit

It isn’t incredibly difficult to guess where Lil Gotit is from or what he’s about, but depending on your preferences (and I know a lot of you align with ‘Thugger Slime 4L [SLATTTT]🐍🐍’ as your preferred genre), that isn’t a bad thing. The Atlanta-based YSL affiliate sounds a lot like his leader , most evidently on his bigger singles like “Never Met” and the above-embedded “Da Real Hoodbabies”. All respect to a young artist with a strong and efficient workflow — but I believe what’s most impressive here is how deeply influential Young Thug has been on Atlanta’s up-and-comers.

I’m on low-key, I live my best life, feel like it chose me

All the doors start opening, in a dark room, walls closing

I’m getting big enough, my pockets fully stuffed

I ain’t a local joker, go giving your life to Poker — “Hercules”

37) Lil Keed

I…could probably use the above writeup for Lil Keed too, given the fact that I’m not examining the nuances of each artist — from far away, they sound very similar. But that speaks more to Thugger’s influence than anything else. In any case, Lil Keed is already a 10-million-view breaker (“Nameless”) with some appreciable showmanship, bouncy flows, and a somewhat distinct cadence (“It’s Up Freestyle”), with songs playing all across Atlanta’s strip clubs. He’s absolutely killing it. Again, the influence is palpable — but that’s not always, and is not often, a bad thing.

Choppa will blast that, I got all this fuckin’ paper on me, I don’t even cash app

Wearin’ all that out of date jewelry, need to trash that

Yeah you hear them pipes on that fuckin’ Hellcat, young nigga shit

Ridin’ round with a fuckin’ gat, you ain’t killin’ shit — “Balenciaga”

38) Lil Mosey

What can I say? I love “Noticed”. Lil Mosey has an incredible command of flow and cadence, to the point where he can say whatever the fuck he wants and I’ll nod my head to it. Watching a 17 year old flex harder with substances he can’t legally purchase for years is a funny concept, but there’s no immaturity in the way Seattle’s Lil Mosey moves — he’s been crafting solid, anthemic melodic trap since he was 15. There’s an element to his music that could come off as sterile to some, but I hear ‘professional’, because that’s what he is: an honest-to-god natural at what he does. With “Kamikaze” nearing 50 million views and “Burberry Headband” nearing 3 million in two weeks, there’s a good chance Mosey could be a classmate — if he even needs it, that is.

Bandkids love to ball’ we always cash out

And I just faced a ‘Wood, I’m ‘bouta pass out

And I just seen a lick, we bout to max out

Since a youngin’, started flexing, find the cash route — “Boof Pack”

39) Lil Tjay

Speaking of young artists destroying the game, the Bronx’s Lil Tjay consistently releases 10million+ viewcount hits and turned 18 this year. Vocally and melodically in a similar camp as artists like NBA YoungBoy and Quando Rondo, there’s a mildly-NY element of storytelling present that makes for intriguing, melodically-driven trap rap. With hip-hop’s landscape changing as quickly as it does, it’s often hard to place an artist in regards to their popularity — but turnover rates aside, going from independent to rapping alongside French Montana and Blueface (“Slide”) is a definite sign of upward momentum.

So much pain, no gain, feel like music all I got

Feel like I let broski down if we don’t make it to the top

Nigga run up, I don’t know him, swear to God I’m sendin’ shots

I was posted on the corner tryna sell shit like the ahks — “Long Time”

40) Lil West

Lil West reps Delaware, like, by himself. Emerging from a tiny town with no local scene or influences, he’s created an online network of producers and collaborators and developed a style devoid of much, if any, regional influence. This unique environment gives way to complete abstraction, a sound forged by bits and pieces of West’s adolescence on the Internet. The result isn’t surprising: emo-laced vocals, crestfallen lyricism, a variety of samples from an infinitely-expanding landscape, and eclectic, often despondent instrumentals. The sadness comes in pairs at times, as collabs with Night Lovell (“Fukk!!CodeREDD”) and nothing,nowhere (“O.K”) exemplify — unsurprisingly, miles apart, similarly isolated. Though Lil West isn’t exploding on the viewcount front, he’s one of my favorite finds on this list, and would be for his story alone if I didn’t enjoy his music as well.

Old bitches getting knocked up, niggas catching clips like movies

Old bitch try to pop off, lil bitch you can’t fool me

Red Rafs look like hot sauce, baby you should wanna come to me

Main bitch in my iPhone cause these lil thots sending nudies — “Fukk!!CodeREDD”

41) Lil Wop

As evidenced by the like/dislike ratio of his Lyrical Lemonade debut in “Wokstar”, the fine connoisseurs of YouTube-driven trap evidently aren’t ready for Chicago weirdo Lil Wop. Absurdly out of place in a scene marred by high saturation and uniformity, the 1017 signee is a croaked death rattle of fresh air, his voice less of a vehicle for luxury bars and more of a texture. If Young Thug ‘uses his voice as an instrument’, Wop uses his as harsh noise, power electronics: something to invoke discomfort rather than melody. He isn’t an artist who’s going to fit into a popping Freshman Class, but he’s something special. You might even enjoy him. Listen to “Sinister” — hear the way Wop utters [ a̞͇̳̮̹̐̅yͥͥͬ̇҉̶̙̟̪̪͕͕͇͠ͅy̢͓̜̳̎̋̒̅͘y̐ͪͪ̏͊́͘͏̳͍̲͉̤̖̟].

Please don’t trust me, cause I’m sneaky nigga, I’ll wipe yo nose

I’ll take money out yo pocket and go Givenchy my toes

I’m either wit a nigga bitch or in the store or on the stove

I feel like Tony, Gucci slippers, in the trap house in the road — “Lost My Mind”

42) Loso Loaded

ATL denizen Loso Loaded logically should have blown up by now, but may have left his momentum in early 2017. A series of features at pivotal points in their careers including 21 Savage (“Extortion”), Lil Yachty (“Loso Boat)”and the 50 million view golden goose “Pull Up Wit Ah Stick” with SahBabiicame one after another, but did little to ensure a passage for Loso’s own success. Not that he isn’t a capable artist with plenty of solid material: the above-embedded “Bad Energy” came out a few months ago and is a great track, but the view counts aren’t signs of a bubbling career, making a Freshman Class inclusion unlikely.

Gualla in the briefcase, I just won a sweepstakes

Extortin’ pussy niggas out they gulla through the weekday

Ridin’ in a 10 speed in that muthafuckin’ V10

Extortin’ pussy niggas outta anythin’ nigga we ain’t ever been friends — “Extortion”

43) LouGotCash

Another Republic signee, LouGotCash hasn’t eclipsed his 2017 peak in party anthem “Make 10”, a song I actually enjoy quite a bit. Capable of delivering some professionally executed sing-song trap melodies, he may possess talent that isn’t translating to viewcounts, though his lack of consistent content may be to blame as well. That being said, as a label-owned songwriter, Lou might have some presence under the radar — he’s included on the Into The Spider-Verse soundtrack alongside Ski Mask the Slump God and Jacquees on “Save The Day”.

Silly me, I thought you were the right one

Now you’re broke, yeah, you should have had my damn son

Want me back, but you told me it was damn done

Let you go, yeah, I guess it was no fun — “Make 10”

44) Matt Ox

God, that haircut is fucking wack, but lil bro is still doing his thing. He’s so young that I’m almost sure the years are going to mold him into a legend. Remember “Overwhelming”? Chief Keef remembers.

Had to chase the bag ’cause I heard the money callin’

Heard the money talkin’, they like, “What it costin’?”

Drippin’ with the faucet and the Prada walkin’

Chasin’ guap like Sonic, too much in my pocket — “Zero Degrees”

45) Megan Thee Stallion

Houston’s Megan Thee Stallion is a gradually rising competitor in an warlike race to claim dominance over a new wave of dynamic female emcees. Less enveloped in gunplay-centric trap than her peers (but just as lethal), Megan’s style is significantly more rooted in Southern bounce and sexual aggression, the latter reminiscent of Missy Elliot’s bad-bitch MO. “Last Week in HTx” is most representative of her overall style, though lyrically combative tracks like “Stalli Freestyle” aren’t out of place either — both are amazing tracks that place Megan as a contender for an approaching blowup.

And your last bitch mad ‘cuz I’m coming up fast

I’m passin’ bitches up like they running out of gas

Your favorite rapper only use onomatopoeias

You don’t wanna hear it cuz you only wanna see her — “Stalli Freestyle”

46) Melii

Harlem’s Melii is more ghetto love stories than she is murder tales, but is just as expansive in repertoire as other bubbling female artists on this shortlist. Nocturnal club R&B like “See Me” doesn’t sound anything like the angry-as-fuck “Sh*t Talk” and speaks to Melii’s versatility, and the bilingual transitions do the same. “HML” dropped a few months ago and is creeping towards 3 million, which may not be enough to secure a place in an incredibly competitive shortlist, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see Melii topping charts in the near future.

I ain’t tryna be ya friend only me and Benjamin

You know that I got the juice I’m a legend living proof

Pretty Mama in a coop for the haters bullet proof

You know I can never lose am a beast at what I do — “Sh*t Talk”

47) Mir Fontane

Jersey’s Mir Fontane vocalizes with a strained, soulful cadence, rapping about everything from barefaced jealousy (“Frank Ocean”) to harsh reflections of his environment (“Down By The River”). It’s somewhat shocking to listen to what sounds like surefire viral success and realize they all sit below a million hits — he’s truly a talented artist with an ear for melody and a knack for storytelling. It’s easy to call an artist ‘underrated’ if you rock with them and feel as if they aren’t heard by enough, but when observing the care put into Fontane’s music and his dynamic approach to delivery and lyricism, it’s a term I can comfortably use to describe him.

Coolant in the street, dead bodies on the ave

Heart beatin’ fast but my niggas just laughed

And we ran a red light, drove off in the night

And I ain’t ever been so scared in my life — “Down By The River”

48) Molly Brazy

Detroit’s Molly Brazy just turned 20, but has insisted that she’ll fuck you up for a few years now. I believe her. The attitude present in tracks like “Trust None” and “Pop Shit” is not, in fact, on some pop shit: there’s a grit and exasperation here that comes across as incredibly genuine (in the best way possible, like a Bhad Bhabie who’s about it). If the primary cohort of upcoming female hardcore rappers — the Ricos, Dolls, and Stallions — has an aggression power ranking, Molly sits way, way at the top. Permanently snarling, her delivery and lyricism can be best described as hostile, and music best described as warlike.

That ain’t my problem, weak bitches gone be weak bitches

Sneak dissing, pistol whip a bitch now her teeth missing

Free my brother the realest nigga I ever knew

Disrespect his name and them missiles coming after you — “Trust None”

49) Ohgeesy

Shoreline Mafia captain Ohgeesy is a regional sensation. The LA mainstay, alongside 03 Greedo and Stinc Team ringleader Drakeo the Ruler, has led the charge of SoCal’s new wave of lean-fueled underground heavyweights since late 2017. Now that the latter two are unfortunately behind bars for the foreseeable future, he’s representing an entire scene on his own. There’s a deep and admirable element of collaboration between these crews, with plenty of appearances on each other’s projects and some amazing results (“Spaceship”), but Ohgeesy doesn’t have much of an issue holding it down on his own. “Nun Major”s 40million+ viewcount isn’t a fluke — there’s plenty of Ohgeesy/Shoreline hits, and for fans of the codeine-laced, murmured drug talk on top of psychedelic West Coast bounce, every track is a hit.

I don’t sip no regular, the fuck is a clean Sprite?

You steady sippin’ ones, why the fuck is your lean light?

All it take is just one call, you get the green light

She steady on my call log, I hit her with the mean pipe — “Heavy”

50) OMB Peezy

Richmond, CA based but Mobile, AL rep OMB Peezy has been pushing his brand of struggle bars since 2016’s “Lay Down”, which soon granted him a Nef the Pharaoh cosign and E-40 label sign. Since then, he’s found hits alongside the likes of NBA Youngboy (“Doin Bad”) and very recently scored a track with vocal soundalike Boosie Badazz (“Pressure”), though the latter, among other recent tracks, hasn’t blown him up in the way his 2017 material did. But there’s a lot of substance and real effort in Peezy’s music that appeals to fans of a certain Southern-laced sound — especially that of artists like Badazz — that enables a loyal fanbase with room to grow, and seeing as his career hasn’t even hit the three year mark as of late, there’s a lot to look forward to.

Ay, riding round with fed cases

Murk a nigga for a couple dead faces

Fuck yo baby momma ain’t no sympathy

I hope she have a dead baby

Niggas wanna tell the police everything

Well tell em how that lead tasting — “Lay Down”

51) Pardison Fontaine

Secret weapon Pardison Fontaine has done a lot more than you’ve heard his name directly for. The NY rapper has been around since 2015, and since then has broken a million a few times — struggle rap joints like “In The Field” are great, and showcase an artist with lyrical chops and the ability to craft a well-executed track. Oh, right — “Backin It Up” with Cardi B is sitting at, like, 100million+ views on YouTube and was fucking everywhere for a bit. But this isn’t the primary hustle, though even his most recent material like “Rodman”is tight: Fontaine wrote part of 12 out of the 13 tracks on Cardi’s debut full-length, and is credited as a writer on Kanye’s Ye as well. I feel like already being this lauded of a songwriter sort of DQ’s you from a Freshman spot, but that’s not to say Fontaine isn’t an artist to avoid — frankly, he’s really good.

Let’s get it straight, girl, you don’t need a nigga for nothin’

Lookin’ better every day, you got that Benjamin Button

Claimin’ he don’t got a girl, you know niggas be frontin’

You don’t need no bitch comin’ up to you as a woman — “Backin It Up”

52) Polo G

Chicago newcomer and hot commodity Polo G exploded with last year’s “Finer Things”, netting nearly 50 million hits on YouTube, and decided to follow that up with this year’s “Pop Out”, netting another cool 50 million views. I’m seeing a pattern here. Polo belongs to the new guard of underground, extra-young melodic gangster rappers like collaborator Lil Tjay, with tracks like “Battle Cry” ebbing with a pain of incarcerated adolescence and an upbringing steeped in gangbanging. There’s a lot of heart in these songs, though some may not hear it with the frequent references to murder, drugs, and robbery — but it’s soulful, earnest, very real reflections of a ruthless environment. It’s also incredibly popular, with artists with this kind of sound (the YoungBoys, the Rondos) leading the pack in regards to YouTube hits: Polo G, despite the lack of mainstream attention and curated star power, might be one of the most popular artists on this list.

Booked a flight to Cali, racks and condoms in my suitcase

And every single dollar in these bands got a blue face

Diamonds in the Rollie, they in HD like it’s Blu-Ray

The way that I been ballin’ should make the cover of 2K — ”Pop Out”

53) Q Da Fool

DMV’s Q Da Fool, while a legitimate workhorse with a loyal fanbase, doesn’t often break more than a couple million hits. “For Real” is a good example: great song, infectious energy, would destroy a concert, but may never see some sort of viral success. But the Roc Nation signee is new and not one to stagnate, working with relevant producers like Kenny Beats (“Win”) and consistently pushing out new work. And the DMV is hot right now: it’s as good of a time as any for Q to find his hit and secure a higher rung on the ladder, and for his solid and lengthy body of work to garner more attention. He’s a rapper who raps like it’s his job, and cares about it too.

Put diamonds on all of my young niggas necks

Remix that nigga drink and finesse

The more money, feel like they love you less

Just bought a hundred rounds and I bought a vest — “Catch Up”

54) Q Money

I’m not entirely sure what the exact situation is right now, but Q Money was arrested mid April on murder charges. That may impact the Ohio emcee’s chances of Freshman status, though Keef notoriously attended his class from behind bars. In any case — Q Money makes braggadocious, wide-grinned trap with a vibe similar to the currently popping gangster goofball DaBaby. You can hear and see it in “Neat” and 2017’s “Work”, with plenty of tongue-in-cheek moments punctuating the otherwise cold style of hiphop. It gets grimier and more ruthless at times, exemplified by “Streetz Baby”, but often sounds like he’s doing this to have fun (and judging by the subject matter, doing so when the phone isn’t ringing).

Niggas been on some fuck shit lately

Remixing and wrapping and serving them babies

And moving them babies like it was the eighties

Really caught cases, niggas be faking

Hid my dope and my scale from the cops in the basement — “Work”

55) Quando Rondo

I’ve referenced the newer set of especially young, melodious gangbangers leading the hood section of YouTube’s rap catalog a few times now, and Quando Rondo may be my favorite from that set of artists. The Savannah rapper/singer found viral fame with a Lil Baby feature on “I Remember”, and hasn’t slowed his output much since — “ABG” overtook the former in viewcount and his linkup with NBA YoungBoy (“Forever” — YoungBoy really is everywhere) boosted his career and placed him at the forefront of the new school. Now, he really does sound like YoungBoy when he raps, but the raspy cadence, vocal range, and creative melodies make him a distinct emcee with a ton of potential. Listen to “Scarred From Love” and you’ll hopefully see what I mean.

You really touched me to my heart, permanent scars the day I found that you cheated

I kept it real with you girl, I guess you was tryna get even

I feel like Adam, you my Eve, we in the Garden of Eden

How the fuck you claim you love someone when you don’t know the real meaning — “Scarred From Love”

56) Queen Key

Chicago’s Queen Key is here for a good time. Just watch the embedded video for “My Way” and listen to her shrug off the demise of our generation and rap about her burnt pizza. What the fuck? She’s hilarious and a breath of fresh air — not quite in the Keef camp of Chicago nor in Chance’s (though he’s having a seemingly good time in the video for her “Slide Remix”), Queen Key’s just having fun in a scene that often speaks on the very real and serious. Her recent video for “Ratchett” is not only all jokes, but has the bass very purposefully pushed to 11, completely eating her vocals. Amazing. Those dimples don’t belong to someone who particularly cares how people feel about her.

Meanwhile I’m turnt as fuck

I left my pizza in the oven, that bitch burnt as fuck

A lot a cheese to go around, bitch I could turn you up

A lot of these lil’ bitches cool, but they be weak as fuck — “My Way”

57) Reason

Los Angeles and TDE denizen Reason delivers struggle stories with an uncommon earnestness in the year 2019, making him a standout in this shortlist and in the scene overall. Introspective and at times heart-wrenching (“Colored Dreams”), Reason’s stories are more directly poetic than abstrusely complex. At length, one can feel a lack of variety in his catalog, especially his frequent choice of subject matter being cheating/being cheated on (“Superman”), but his available singles off of official debut There You Have It are much more polished. A rare breed (and underrated, or underlistened) among a sea of artists focused on vibe and energy, Reason satisfies a niche department most don’t participate in these days.

My older cousin been dabblin’ in cocaine sniffin’

Love him to death but feeling like I can’t hang with him

Went to Atlanta to hopefully get some change with him

Woke up the next morning, the nigga chain missin’ — “Better Dayz”

58) Rico Nasty

Rico Nasty isn’t the most traditionally popular emcee on this shortlist, but fits XXL’s bill so perfectly it’d astound me to not see her on the list. Among the new school of aggressive female artists in hip-hop, she’s by far the most entrenched on the internet, with loads of social media presence and varied output on YouTube and Twitter. Her frequent collabs with Kenny Beats are among the most fluid producer/rapper combos observed in recency — Rico’s assertive rasp and beatdown delivery work flawlessly alongside Kenny’s distorted, glitching percussion landscapes. And even among the vibrant, diverse stylings that many contemporary artists today possess, she manages to stand out: grungy, scene-inspired wear and attitude that appeal to a sect of alternative kids who never see much representation otherwise. The DMV’s had a great couple years in hiphop, and Rico’s among the best to represent it.

You like to play hide and seek, I can’t wait to find you

Diamonds on me blind you, ballin’ on ’em, Caillou

I look good in every angle so you don’t like me beside you

Seven bitches, three lines, bitch, that’s a haiku — “Roof”

59) Rod Wave

St. Petersburg’s Rod Wave sounds a lot like Kevin Gates, except he honestly might have the edge when it comes to singing. His celebratory post-struggle anthems are heartwarming — maybe too-sweet at worst — and his consistent release pattern over the course of the last year has garnered solid viewcounts and includes some notable features (“Feel The Same Way” ft. Moneybagg Yo, “Bag” ft. GlokkNine). Utilizing a more soulful cadence than most of the melodically-inclined candidates on this year’s shortlist, he’s a recognizable voice with a significant amount of potential yet to be utilized.

‘Member back when I was broke lil’ bitches would ignore me

Now we runnin’ up that dough so all the hoes adore me

They wouldn’t book me at no shows ’cause I was a shorty

Now when they call me to book me they can’t afford me — “Bag”

60) Roddy Ricch

Compton’s Roddy Ricch has had nothing short of an astronomical comeup in the last year. The street-rap crooner dropped “Die Young” last summer, a single that would go on to net Ricch cosigns by Meek Mill as well as the late Nipsey Hussle (“Racks In The Middle”). With nearly every single of his from that point nearing 50 million hits on YouTube, as well as collaborations with massive artists such as Marshmello (“Project Dreams”) starting to populate his catalog, Ricch might be riding the strongest momentum out of any artist on this shortlist — a strong command of melody and knack for memorable bars only further secure his position as a strong candidate.

And we been on this money shit for years

Gotta drink this mud to make the pain go away

I been dropping these codeine tears

Praying Roddy rich don’t go insane today — “Ricch Forever”

61) Sada Baby

Detroit’s most recent bannerwaver Sada Baby isn’t just another face in the crowd. In fact, his recognizable voice, idiosyncratic delivery, and stank-face one-liners make him one of the most unmistakable talents in the lineup, and a unique look coupled with a performer’s video presence make him a top-quality entertainer. Tracks like “Bloxk Party” and “Rock With Us” easily run up millions of views on YouTube, but you don’t need numbers to see that Sada’s special — something about his goofy dance moves and templateless lyricism emanate with a individuality that brings to mind versatile oddities like 03 Greedo. It’s a shame Tee Grizzley didn’t receive a Freshman spot last year, but if Detroit needs a (very) strong rep for this year, it’s Sada Baby.

With that molly in my lemonade, dope all in the ‘frigerator

FNs on my renegade, cocaine on my Carti shades

Xanny in my party days, hittin’ hoes from far away

Just to give they heart away, like Ro we gon’ start today — “Pimp Named Drip Dat”

62) Saweetie

SoCal’s Saweetie has never managed to recapture the viral success of “ICY GRL”, despite possessing an admirable work ethic as well as strength as a songwriter and performer. Her affiliation with Quavo isn’t something she’s leaned on in terms of popularity, though the above-embedded “Emotional”has received a fair amount of play (and is a surprisingly refreshing sound). But for the most part, she’s made big moves in the last year, with plenty of collaborations including London On Da Track (and G-Eazy, and Rich The Kid on “Up Now”) as well as well-received remixes (“Anti Remix”). It really does seem like she’s got a trajectory to superstardom locked down — she just needs something that can boost her past the rest.

Want a man with big, big bucks, money longer than my weave

My hair cost a lot, I’ma need a couple g’s

Not a PlayStation, so do not play with me

’Cause I will black op a nigga who don’t gain with me — “High Maintenance”

63) Sheck Wes

Everyone’s heard the song by now, and most everyone’s heard it too many times. I came across Harlem’s Sheck Wes through last year’s XXL shortlist, and while “Mo Bamba” hadn’t gone astronomical at that point, it was slowly finding its way into shitty frat houses and seedy warehouse parties. And very little has actually happened since it did blow up: MUDBOY dropped in all of its OG Maco-esque muttered fury, some singles followed, but none reached the hit’s peak — he actually hasn’t broken 10 million views for any other song. Now, that’s not to disregard the 225 million views “Mo Bamba” has, but given the number of other artist on this list with more consistent and steady viewcounts and streams, it seems…questionable to grant a Freshman status for a single.

Ugh, you can cop it, but never for retail

Prices, couldn’t top it, flip it, profit resale

I like real bad bitches, I like dreads with pink nails

I’m young and misguided, but I’m so into detail — “Gmail”

64) Skinnyfromthe9

Here’s a video of Skinnyfromthe9. This guy looks and sounds like the fever dream of a record label exec who learned about SoundCloud rap at a PTA meeting.

I got 10 bad bitches tryna fuck all day

Man these niggas so pussy, tryna take my chain

Yeah I just left jail but I made

Got too many shooters, yeah they all got aims — “Just Left Jail”

65) Splurge

Among the gamut of under-20 budding stars on this list is Arlington’s Splurge, who’s coming off of a busy, 4-project 2018. Though he hasn’t managed to break 10 million in any of his videos so far, he’s racked up a fair amount of attention for a number of his releases such as “Free Granny” and “Beat By Jeff”. Splurge doesn’t fit in an easily defined wave nor scene, but there’s familiarity in his music: his indoor-voice (sometimes whispered, like in “Steve Nash”) threat bars bring Hoodrich Pablo Juan to mind, and his sparse, bass-heavy production wouldn’t be out of place in SoundCloud’s early DIY trap syndicate. His videos add another angle of character to his songs, too — a kind of Chief Keefian effortlessness present that a lot of artists don’t possess, like Splurge just walks around rapping.

This is designer, this shit not from PacSun

It’s my shooter’s birthday, I bought him a MAC gun

We smokin’ niggas, we don’t smoke cigarettes

Feel how you feel but keep me off your internet — “Free Granny”

66) Squidnice

Staten Island’s Squidnice had a great 2017, but hasn’t quite been able to reach “Trap By My Lonely”s success. That being said, his off-kilter melodies and paranoid production make for some interesting songs like “Everywhere I Go”, and he‘s managed to continue releasing solid material like late last year’s “ASTOUNDING”. But it’s a hard fall to go from 5 million to 50 thousand, and may not make the best case for Freshman status (though that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t check him out). He also pulled up on Skinnyfromthe9, though nothing happened because Skinny was hanging out with like twenty cops.

Everywhere I go I got cheese on me like nachos

Yeah need my side hoe in my back pocket like an iPhone

These niggas can’t talk shit, can’t talk grips cause we got those

I don’t really got time for you I be in a different time zone — “Everywhere I Go”

67) Thutmose

I accidentally saw Brooklyn’s Thutmose live in Oakland when he opened for Billie Eilish (it was for a zine, I promise) in 2017. I was pleasantly surprised by an excellent performance with a ton of energy, riling up a crowd who had likely never heard of a then-barely-5k-on-Instagram opener from the East Coast. Since then, I’ve seen his name pop out on occasion — a few Spotify radio shuffles or YouTube autoplays brought me to “Blurry Nights” and “Rounds” ft. Jay Critch, and most notably found him on “Memories” from the Spiderman: Into the Spider-Verse OST. He’s got a lot going for him: he can write songs, has solid presence on a track, and is a capable performer. Now he just needs the attention.

Cops come around, never get involved

Run to the bank, get a withdrawal

Mask off, mask off, Jack Frost, half off

Bath salts, back up, back up, lights up — “Rounds”

68) TJ Porter

Harlem’s TJ Porter isn’t quite popping off yet, but he’s bubbling. When “Tricky” hit a few million plays on SoundCloud, Porter got picked up by Def Jam in 2018, allowing him to set up for a major debut this year. The former basketball prodigy works in the vein of artists like A Boogie with a Hoodie, with fast-paced melodies riding on top of trap instrumentals like in “Heartless”. He’s still looking to hit a million on one of his YouTube music videos, but with strong label support and a circulated debut may be able to give his career a real jumpstart.

I got a snake on my sneaker, I’m making more money than my teacher

It’s game time, screamin’, “We gon’ ball,” remember I sat up on the bleachers

Wherever I go they screaming my name and playing my tunes on the speakers

Fuck all of them bitches who curved and got on my nerves, now all of them some eaters — “Tricky”

69) Tierra Whack

I knew Philly’s Tierra Whack was going to be a star when I first listened to (and saw) “Whack World” and “Mumbo Jumbo”. Innovative usage of vocals, creative lyricism, and stunning visuals make her one of the most distinctive artists on this list, and moreover, in the scene today. Most of her current releases fall in line with quirky, idiosyncratic alternative R&B like “Only Child”, but she’s a wordsmith when she wants to be, as evidenced by this Say Cheese freestyle. Her songwriting ability is A1, she’s got a great voice, and her videos are gorgeous. Though she’s racking up millions of plays across various platforms right now, I’ll be honest — I’m confident that compared to how big she’ll be in a couple years, it’s still early enough to hop on board.

Spiteful and malicious, hope that other chick got syphilis

Sick of this, hard to stomach, now that nigga shittin’ bricks

Hypocrite, punch you in yo’ lip, oh shit, you slippin’, sis

Used to arch my back for you and now I’m your arch-nemesis — “Only Child”

70) Tokyo Jetz

Jacksonville’s Tokyo Jetz came up off of car freestyles, and since then hit 15 million on “No Problem” last year. For fans of aggressive, traditional trap in the vein of TI over contemporary instrumentals, Jetz is a torch-carrier: avoiding the pitfalls of modern trap rap, possessing a classic style while maintaining relevance. “Baller Alert” highlights Jetz’ powerful command of flow alongside an incredibly smooth Kash Doll feature, making it one of the better duo cuts I’ve heard thus far. Though she isn’t currently on an upward trajectory, she’s still releasing well-received Floridian trap bangers on the regular, with a project slated to come out this year.

Don’t care ‘bout no pillow talking or none of your stupid friends

But I thought you bitches knew, can’t keep no nigga with no kid

Let me guess, you heard about me, can tell you what they said

I’m just gon’ have several seats on your baby daddy’s head — “Down in the DM Freestyle”

71) Tyla Yaweh

Orlando’s Tyla Yaweh found his momentum the past six months out of nowhere. “SHE BAD” hit several million views within a few months of its release, and followup single “High Right Now” just hit 3 million in less than three weeks. Somewhat of a Swae Lee soundalike, Yaweh’s got a great voice and touches his instrumentals with guitarwork and rock elements, resulting in somewhat of a realization of mainstream emo rap with Top 40 potential. And his recent signing to Post Malone’s London Entertainment, as well as his affiliation with Post could be keys to the top if he uses them right.

Rolling Gelatto, are we staying stanky

Ride with the gang and they stay with the glizzy

And my ring is Versace, so bitch, kiss my pinky

Sipping so much lean, I’m losing my kidneys — “Salute”

72) Valee

I don’t know what it is about Chicago and GOOD Music’s Valee that makes me certain he’s a genius. I mean, he hardly says anything sometimes, like on “You And Me Both”. It must be the weird-ass earworm flows on “Miami” and “Womp Womp”, or the fact that rappers decided to utilize them so soon after they were released. Or maybe it’s just that Valee is doing something special, something subtle, and crafts interesting songs that not only find themselves stuck in your head, but lack comparison in today’s saturated hip-hop meta. Aside from “Womp Womp”, and maybe “Miami”, Valee doesn’t make songs for international play — but it doesn’t sound like he’s trying to, and I personally like it that way.

Margielas like these came with no shoe strings in ’em

My car don’t like keys, that bitch push to start, isn’t it?

I bought some Balmains and I put some Gs in it

Went to the ball game and I got floor seats, didn’t I? — “Miami”

73) Warhol.ss

Chicago native and Lyrical Lemonade mainstay Warhol.ss has been pushing his brand of elevated SoundCloud trap since 2015, but found his comeup alongside Cole Bennett’s explosive 2016 with “Speed Racer”. His portfolio expanded considerably between then and 2018, with consistently solid releases like “12ozs” showcasing his unorthodox flows and variable rhyme schemes. Best known for a gritty cadence and menacing presence, he’s also explored more melodic avenues like “Kill Tek Piece” while maintaining lyricism and command of delivery. Despite a solid fanbase and considerably quality body of work, however, Warhol hasn’t found viral fame yet — it’s a shame, because he’d fit as a high quality example of trending hip-hop with potential for a lengthy career.

Bitch, I do the dash, see the wheels paint the pavement

Niggas, they ain’t flexin with the fire, feel like cavemen

Posted with the boof and she say she love my fragrance

Nigga always hating, that’s a foul sorta flagrant — “Speed Racer”

74) Yella Beezy

Dallas-born pop-trap blender Yella Beezy sounds like he’s known how to rock the music industry. Since 2017’s massive “That’s On Me” — still finding attention with 120 million YouTube hits and 30 million on Spotify — he’s continuously released well-received material like “Up One” with the support of industry juggernauts like Gucci Mane and Quavo. His Boosie-esque Texan drawl is distinctive: most of the things he says sound dope primarily on the basis of their twang. Yella’s one of the most popular artists on this list, and given his ability to rack up viral hits within weeks, wouldn’t surprise me to see him among this year’s class.

Fuck is you mean boy? Gangsta in my jeans boy

Walkin’ in shoes that you ain’t ever seen, boy

I don’t like talkin’ so the choppa got a beam, boy

When the bitch get to sparkin’, it’ll hit a nigga’s spleen, boy — “That’s On Me”

75) YBN Almighty Jay

The YBN trio often find themselves in alternating periods of prominence, but it’s been some time since Texas’s Almighty Jay could stand as a contender. Past the success of “Chopsticks” and “No Hook” is an unstable work history, with a lack of attention and a surplus of Rich The Kid impressions marring a unique voice. And in comparison to a more recently successful YBN Cordae release pattern, it may be difficult for Jay to followup Nahmir’s inclusion last year. That being said, the above-embedded “Let Me Breathe” might be Jay’s best song in a long time, showcasing some genuine maturity and songwriting skill — a much needed contrast to his more consistent venture of vlogs featuring DreamDoll.

I’m not from the Chi’, but I’m throwin’ L’s ’cause niggas be lame than a bitch

Chasin’ a bag, not chasin’ a bitch, blue hunnids like Lilo & Stitch

Don’t fuck with new niggas, just me and my brothers ’cause I know how quick niggas switch

He talkin’ that shit, .223 shells, split that boy’s shit like a Twix — “No Hook”

76) YBN Cordae

The most conventionally lyrical — but in no way middling — member of the YBN crew is Maryland’s Cordae, whose calculated and thoughtful J.Cole rant response “Old N*ggas” brought him to the mainstream. He isn’t a traditional revivalist in the way early Joey Bada$$ was, but one can hear heavy early 2000’s lyrical influence underneath his contemporary production and delivery. It’s become exceedingly difficult to pursue an appealing sound while making wordplay a priority: many examples in recent history have been met with derision for their descent into corniness. But Cordae hasn’t fallen victim to this trope, with tracks like “Kung Fu” and “Have Mercy” (above) finding considerable attention and cosigns.

Why cry over spilled milk if you still feel I’m the real deal?

My bitch bad with no ill-will ’cause she’ll murk a nigga like Kill Bill

Loose lips sink ships, Cam’ron pink drip, that is my fashion

I’m not really with the high flashin’, it’s no helpin’ with my braggin’ — “Have Mercy”

77) YK Osiris

YK Osiris doesn’t sound like many of his peers, choosing to pursue a more R&B-oriented style of hip-hop rather than entering a very saturated Floridian trap rap market. Somewhere in between Bruno Mars, Michael Jackson, and Future, a distinctive rasp and penchant for bedroom hymns like “Valentine” helped him rack up tens of millions of hits last year, and recent releases like “Worth It” and “Timing” doing the same make a solid case for his popularity. While he’s already in a healthy place in regards to exposure, co-signs from Drake and Chris Brown might solidify a blowup this year.

I’m getting the money you know, hot boys wrist froze

Talkin’ down you a lame, I can tell you ain’t game

Niggas always acting strange, I will always stay the same

I will never, never change, I might buy your girl a ring — “Timing”

78) Young Nudy

While ATL’s Young Nudy is no newcomer, 2019 may be the first year where he’s less of ’21 Savage’s Cousin’ and more of an established artist of his own merit. And again, that’s not to say his earlier, excellent collaborations with Pi’erre Bourne like Nudy Land and the Slimeball series should be skated over, but thanks to mainstream attention directed towards this year’s Sli’merre, Nudy is finally out in the open. His frequent collabs with Bourne have proven to be a boon to his artistry — though collaborating with Carti has resulted in incredible material, Bourne’s eccentricity works alongside Nudy’s peculiar delivery and lyricism effortlessly. Listen to “Barbecue” and “Sunflower Seeds” to hear some of the most appropriate pairings in recent producer/rapper history.

I’ m the type of motherfucker nigga never had my hand out

Stupid motherfucker, in my pocket nigga, know I got my cash hangin’ out

Big .30 on that motherfucker, long ways know that bitch hangin’ out

Bad bitch, late night, with the Slimeball know she like to hang out — “EA”

79) Yung Bans

ATL’s Yung Bans is in the midst of surviving the slow fallout of SoundCloud rap, of which he was an important foundation of. “4Tspoon” is, in some ways, a classic: at least within the formerly vibrant and burgeoning cloud trap haze from which so many of today’s underground rap sensations emerged from. And for better or for worse, he’ll be immortalized in XXXTentacion’s “Look At Me” (“shoutout Bans & them”), a testament to his relevance among similarly rising alternative rap stars. And “Lonely” is a great ambassador of a very specific post-Future, dark and sleepy vibe that many artists today make part of their sound.

When I’m low, acid boot me up, yeah

I’m sellin’ shrooms when I’m in the cut, huh

I got a chopper with me in the clutch, yeah

I’m ‘bout to make these niggas give it up — “Lonely”

80) Yung Bleu

Alabama’s Yung Bleu is hard to place — a very unique voice and delivery finds itself working with nocturnal, sadness-tinged instrumentals, contrasting with Bleu’s image and making for an overall intriguing character. Both “Miss It” and “Underappreciated” are legitimately touching trap-touched ballads, with Bleu delivering some barefaced vulnerability that his peers lack. Thanks to a recent hit with Kevin Gates in “Ice On My Baby”, he’s seeing a rise in popularity and may be winding up for a major release this year.