The hip-hop magazine XXL published their annual Freshman Class list of the rap industry's up-and-coming stars on Wednesday, and, as it has every year since 2007, the list stirred up controversy in the rap community.

While the list is meant to help launch the careers of new, talented artists, several MC aficionados disagree with the nominations each year.

This year's controversy focuses on Kidd Kidd, who many in the rap industry believe has been around too long to be a "freshman."

In 2000, Kidd Kidd, formerly known as Curtis Stewart, was discovered by Lil Wayne as he rapped on a New Orleans street corner, reports the Daily Beast. The "Tha Carter V" rapper launched Kidd Kidd as one of the first members of his record label Young Money. There was reportedly a dispute between Wayne and Kidd Kidd in 2004 that led to the fledgling rapper leaving Wayne's label, but the two reunited in 2008 on Weezy's hit single "Mrs. Officer."

In June 2011, Kidd Kidd was signed to 50 Cent's G-Unit Records. In 2014, the "Big Body Benz" rapper was crowned the newest member of the hip-hop squad G-Unit.

On Monday, Kidd Kidd released a mixtape "Rapper's Worst Nitemare," which intensified the backlash about him making the 2015 XXL Freshman Class list since his work has spanned over a decade.

Bugatti Roddy, COO for Diamond Island Music Group, tweeted on Wednesday, "Kidd Kidd ain't no damn freshman... He been cash money forever!"

According to the magazine, Kidd Kidd was voted onto the "XXL Freshman" list after winning the fan-favorite contest that ran March 16 to March 22.

Two virtually unknown artists whose careers could benefit greatly from the list are Washington D.C. native Goldlink, 21, and 18-year-old Atlanta-based rapper Raury, whose fans include Lorde and Andre 3000.

Fetty Wap and DeJ Loaf also made the cut, featured front-and-center on the magazine's cover.

Below is the full list of the 2015 XXL Freshman Class:

  • Fetty Wap
  • DeJ Loaf
  • Kidd Kidd
  • Goldlink
  • Raury
  • K Camp
  • OG Maco
  • Tink
  • Shy Glizzy
  • Vince Staples

The XXL Freshman Class list has jumpstarted the careers of recording artists like Lupe Fiasco, Kid Cudi and Kendrick Lamar.

Do you agree with the rappers on the list? Who would your pick for best up-and-coming rapper be? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.