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Skillz has returned with his annual year-end tradition, releasing “2025 Rap Up. (For My Brother D’Angelo)” on January 1, 2026. As always, the veteran lyricist delivers a thoughtful recap of the biggest moments from the previous year, blending hip-hop headlines with broader cultural and social commentary.
On the general news front, Skillz references major political figures like Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, while also nodding to viral moments that dominated conversation, including the widely discussed Katt Williams interview. Beyond headlines, Skillz addresses the heavier realities of 2025, acknowledging that many people lost jobs, lost rights, and lost loved ones during a turbulent year.
The track carries added emotional weight through a heartfelt tribute to his late brother, D’Angelo, which anchors the song in personal reflection and grief. That sincerity continues as Skillz turns his attention to hip-hop, touching on high-profile disputes involving Sean Combs, Kendrick Lamar, and Drake, while also commenting on broader shifts within the music industry.
More measured than sensational, Rap Up 2025 stands as both a cultural snapshot and a personal memorial. In classic Skillz fashion, the record balances bars, perspective, and humanity — reminding listeners that behind every headline is a real cost.
