ROCKVILLE, MD – Xavier Williams, known to the world as “Lil Xelly.” A bright light in the underground music scene, Lil Xelly was not just an artist, but a creative force, has died on January 16, 2025, He was 21.
On January 16, 2025, Lil Xelly was fatally shot outside the Sleep Inn Hotel in Rockville, Maryland. His body was discovered the next day, January 17, when Montgomery County police conducting a routine patrol near Research Boulevard and Shady Grove Road came across a white BMW riddled with bullet holes. Upon further inspection, authorities found a deceased male in the vehicle, later identified as the rapper. A nearby woman was also found deceased, though her identity has yet to be officially confirmed.
Authorities quickly arrested 25-year-old Kaloyan Dimov Stoev as the suspect in the shooting. While police have not officially confirmed the identities of the victims, reports strongly indicate that the male victim was Lil Xelly.
A Rising Star Gone Too Soon
Lil Xelly was an artist on the rise, carving out a place for himself in the underground rap scene. His musical journey began in middle school, where he started recording and uploading tracks to platforms like Spinrilla. While his early work didn’t gain significant traction, Lil Xelly’s sound began to gain momentum on SoundCloud, where he eventually built a loyal following.
His breakthrough came in 2017 with the release of More Xelly, followed by Lil Xelly the Mixtape (2019), Side Effects (2020), and xelly & friends (2022). With over 19,000 monthly listeners on Spotify and thousands of followers on SoundCloud and YouTube, Lil Xelly was quickly becoming a household name in the underground rap community. Known for his raw lyricism and emotionally charged melodies, his music connected deeply with fans who related to his struggles and aspirations.
A Legacy of Creativity, Kindness, and Resilience
Beyond his impressive catalog of music, what truly set Lil Xelly apart was his authenticity and character. His lyrics spoke of life’s challenges, personal growth, and the pursuit of dreams, offering a voice to those who may have felt unheard. But Lil Xelly was more than just a talented musician—he was a friend, mentor, and pillar of positivity.
In the tight-knit underground music community, Lil Xelly was known for his humility, kindness, and generosity. He was always willing to support others, whether through collaborations or simply offering a word of encouragement. He had a unique ability to make those around him feel like family, and his open, welcoming nature made him beloved by fans and peers alike.
In just a few short years, Lil Xelly made an indelible impact on the music world, releasing over 30 songs with close collaborators. His talent for blending hip-hop and melodic sounds, along with his willingness to push creative boundaries, made him a standout artist. He was not confined to one genre but instead embraced a variety of styles, which helped shape his distinct sound.
Tributes Pour In for the Fallen Artist
The loss of Lil Xelly has sent shockwaves through the music community. Tributes from friends, collaborators, and fans continue to pour in, expressing grief over the young artist’s death. One friend shared, “This hurts so bad. One of my best friends in the underground, we did 30+ songs together over the last 7 years. This is a true tragedy for our community.”
Lil Xelly’s influence was far-reaching. His energy, work ethic, and creativity inspired countless others in the DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) area and beyond. His authenticity and resilience made him a beacon of hope for young artists striving to make their mark in the music world. As one tribute eloquently stated, “Thank you for bringing us your energy. I will honor your memory forever.”
A Legacy That Will Live On
Though Lil Xelly’s life was tragically cut short, his music and spirit will continue to inspire generations to come. His raw talent, authenticity, and the emotional depth of his work will live on in the hearts of his fans. His journey was just beginning, and the impact of his short-lived career will resonate for years to come.
As we remember Xavier Williams, we celebrate the bright star he was—an artist, a friend, and a voice for many. His music will continue to echo in the underground scene, and his legacy will remain an integral part of the culture he helped shape. Rest in peace, Lil Xelly. You were taken too soon, but your impact will never be forgotten.