In a recent episode of the NFR Podcast, hosts Luca and Anthony broke down a growing debate across hip-hop circles: which rappers in 2025 are actively damaging their own careers. The discussion centered on seven major names, from longtime chart-toppers to once-promised breakout stars, whose momentum has either stalled or sharply declined due to delays, controversies, missteps, or inconsistent output.
A$AP Rocky’s name surfaced first. After nearly a decade of album delays and a stretch of singles that failed to reconnect with the mainstream, Rocky’s long-teased Don’t Be Dumb now carries more pressure than anticipation. His legacy remains solid, but the gap between expectation and results continues to widen as fans tire of waiting.
Young Thug’s situation sits at the opposite extreme. His post-release comeback failed to match the artistic clarity he displayed while incarcerated. UY SCUTI arrived with a confusing rollout, low-impact features, and visuals that overshadowed the music itself. Despite his legendary trap run, his recent output has raised questions about the direction of his career.
Kanye West, one of hip-hop’s most influential figures, re-entered the conversation for his turbulent three-year stretch. While Donda reaffirmed his artistry, the controversies that followed, from public statements to industry fallouts, overshadowed his music. The Vultures releases added to the uncertainty, leaving fans unsure of whether the focus is still on the art or the spectacle around it.
Lil Durk’s trajectory shifted as legal issues complicated both his public image and his creative direction. His latest project faced immediate scrutiny from fans who felt the music lacked the authenticity and intensity that previously defined his catalog. With his legal battle ongoing, his career sits in a fragile position.
Roddy Ricch’s dramatic rise and sharp decline also made the list. After dominating 2019 and early 2020, his momentum faded as Live Life Fast was met with widespread disappointment. Multiple delays surrounding The Navy Album have only amplified the perception that he’s still searching for a stable artistic footing.
DaBaby’s fall remains one of the most public implosions of the decade. Once a staple on radio and festival stages, a string of controversies followed by underperforming releases pushed him out of mainstream rotation. Even after public apologies, the music failed to rebuild the bridge.
Chance the Rapper rounded out the conversation. Following the commercial and critical backlash to The Big Day, he has struggled to fully re-engage the broader audience that once positioned him as a generational leader. His recent project showed improvement, but the gap between past acclaim and present reception remains significant.
The episode closed with a broader question: which of these artists still has a path to redemption, and whose career setbacks may be irreversible? Across fanbases and industry discussions, the debate continues, proving that legacies can shift quickly, and comebacks are never guaranteed.
