We survived 2025, but many didn’t come out unscathed. Last year’s vibe was a little different and has left us collectively feeling a bit shellshocked. Included in that number is Mad Skillz. The veteran rapper has been recapping the years with his annual “Rap Up” series for quite some time and after seemingly calling it quits in 2021, he triumphantly revived the series last year. He brings us the latest edition with “2025 Rap Up.”
This edition immediately sets a nostalgic-but-somber tone thanks to it utilizing the instrumental from D’Angelo’s classic tune “Lady.” With the classic soul of the song as the track’s backdrop, he recounts the year’s big moments.
He kicks things off by mentioning the orange elephant in the White House and the many transgressions he’s made against the American people (including the executive orders, ICE raids and the vendettas he’s still trying to pursue). On a happier note, he talks about some of the big musical moments that were the talk of the town — Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl moment, Beyoncé’s big GRAMMY win, Kehlani folding up the populace — and quite a few of the silly trends that helped us make it through.
Skillz reserved the final moments of the “2025 Rap Up” to pay tribute to the myriad artists and souls that we lost this year. Though this is included every year, seeing so many notable faces flash on the screen is a reminder of the toll that 2025 took on us all. But Skillz makes sure to especially shout two of perhaps the most sudden losses (who also happen to be his friends): Angie Stone and D’Angelo.
The “Rap Up” is always something we look forward to, but with the world in a collective state of disarray, this edition hit quite different. Here’s hoping that 2026 brings a lighter mood and brighter days to us all.
Relive the year that was alongside Mad Skillz when you press play.
