The DMV lost one of its brightest underground stars in the early hours of Friday, January 17, 2025. Lil Xelly, a 24-year-old Rockville rapper, was more than just a prolific artist—he was a movement. Known for his tireless work ethic and innovative sound, Xelly redefined what it meant to be an independent artist in the streaming era. Today, we celebrate the legacy of a DMV legend who left an indelible mark on the culture.
Xelly’s career was nothing short of extraordinary. Beginning in 2016, he flooded the internet with music at a pace few could fathom. In 2017, he released More Xelly, a staggering 105-song tape that showcased not just his unrelenting drive but also his ability to craft dynamic, witty, and deeply personal music. Xelly wasn’t just about quantity; he delivered quality across a variety of sounds, from the woozy, hypnotic vibes of plugg to the hard-hitting beats of drill.
His collaborations were equally legendary. Xelly brought together producers from all corners of the underground, including BrentRambo, CashCache!, and GRIMM Doza, creating a discography that felt like a living, breathing document of the SoundCloud era. Despite working with such a wide array of talent, Xelly always stayed true to his own identity, consistently delivering clever punchlines, vivid imagery, and an unmistakable flow.
But what truly set Xelly apart was his vision. His music was a community, a time capsule, and a testament to his ability to inspire. Whether it was the synchronicity he found with producers like Soudiere on tapes like Xrrtified Posse or the dreamy, R&B-infused melodies of his plugg tracks, Xelly’s work transported listeners to specific moments in time—moments that now feel even more precious.
Xelly’s career wasn’t without its evolution. In 2022, he hinted at slowing down, saying he wanted to be more intentional with his releases. But by 2024, he had dropped eight full-length mixtapes, proving that his love for the craft outweighed any thoughts of pausing. As he once said, “I just want to eat myself on the track—that’s what separates me from everyone else.”
It’s rare for an artist to embody both the spirit of their community and the ambition to change it. Lil Xelly did just that. He was a pioneer, a risk-taker, and a voice for the DMV that will continue to echo long after his passing.
To his fans, collaborators, and everyone who felt the impact of his music: Lil Xelly was more than a rapper. He was a legend, a force of nature, and a reminder that greatness doesn’t wait—it works tirelessly, unapologetically, and passionately.
Rest in power, Xelly. Your music will remain a beacon for those who dare to dream as big and work as hard as you did. The DMV will forever remember you as one of its greatest.
