Rockville, Maryland – The underground rap community is mourning the loss of one of its most prolific artists, Elijah Johnson, better known by his stage name Lil Xelly, who passed away on January 16, 2024. The news of his death came from DC Artists TV, with no official cause released, though recent reports of shootings in Rockville have fueled speculation. Law enforcement has not confirmed the identity of the victims involved in those incidents.
Lil Xelly, at just 24 years old, had carved out a significant place for himself in the music scene, particularly through his relentless output on SoundCloud. His journey began in middle school, where he started releasing tracks on Spinrilla, but it was his transition to SoundCloud that truly marked his ascent. Known for his extraordinary work ethic, Xelly was famous for releasing music at a pace unmatched by many of his contemporaries, often dropping multiple projects a month.
His career-defining moment came with the release of his first project, “More Xelly,” a 105-song mixtape in 2017, which showcased his commitment and creativity. This was followed by a consistent stream of music that kept his fanbase growing, as he himself noted in an interview with The Fader, “I got hella fans who want to hear hella sh*t by me.”
Despite his roots in the underground scene, Lil Xelly’s talent led him to broader recognition, with his latest project, “WTSC,” gaining traction on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. His sudden death has left fans in disbelief, many of whom expressed their grief directly on his social media platforms. After his last post, a music video clip shared on the day he passed, comments overflowed with condolences and shock.
The music world has lost a young talent whose prolific output and unique sound left an indelible mark on the rap scene. As the community grapples with this loss, the legacy of Lil Xelly remains in the music he left behind, cherished by fans who appreciated his dedication and artistry.