Drake (age 25) – Drizzy’s rise has been well documented. With his critically acclaimed debut album Thank Me Later solidified him as a rap heavyweight, his upcoming sophomore release Take Care will see if he has staying power.

Wiz Khalifa (age 24) – The Pittsburgh rapper jumped onto the scene with an underground mixtape following that was rivaled by few. When his 1st mainstream single, Black and Yellow, dropped countless accolades followed. Also having Amber Rose on your arm doesn’t hurt either.

Big Sean (age 23) – Under the tutelage of mentor Kanye West, Big Sean had no choice but to blow. The biggest mainstream rapper out of Detroit since Eminem has an entire city on his back and isn’t looking to slow down anytime soon.

Diggy Simmons (age16) – From rap royalty, the fourth child of Rev Run, Diggy Simmons is carving a lane of his own while still maintaining the family business. Blessed with a flow that is clearly in his DNA, Diggy is nowhere near in his prime.

Nitty Scott MC (age 21) – The 21 year old femcee who reps Brooklyn is relatively new but still a rising star. Looks aside, what Nitty brings is content and lyricism we haven’t seen since MC Lyte. She is a B-Girl in its truest form.

Meek Mill (age 24) – The Philly and Mayback Music Group rapper Meek Mill is easily recognizable when he jumps on any track. With a distinct voice that’s reminiscent of fellow Philly (now defunct) Rocafella group State Property, Meek Milly is has put the Illadel back on the scene.

Kendrick Lamar (age 24) – Recently crowned the new king of the West by Dr. Dre, Snoop Dog, and The Game, Kendrick Lamar is a young Compton MC who’s emotional and sharp lyrics border on poetry. He is to be featured on Dr. Dre’s upcoming Detox (please drop this Dre.)

Mac Miller (age 19) – Another Emcee from Pittsburgh, Mac Miller has crossover appeal. While some were skeptical about another suburban claiming they can rap, cosigns by DJ Jazzy Jeff, Talib Kweli, and Wale, silence all.

B.O.B. (age 22) – Bobby Ray has put in so much work since his debut a few years ago, you’d think there’s no way this kid is only 22. He can sing, play the guitar and piano. B.O.B. is the most versatile on our top 10 under 25.

Tyler, The Creator (age 20) – The leader of the Odd Future collective, Tyler, the Creator is known for his live shows, lewd, misogynistic rap lyrics and scaring parents. And he wouldn’t have it any other way.