About
Lil Xan, born Nicholas Diego Leanos, is an American rapper who emerged from the SoundCloud rap scene. He is best known for his 2017 single "Betrayed," which peaked at number 64 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Career Timeline
Betrayed Becomes Hit Single
Betrayed peaked at #64 on Billboard Hot 100, establishing him as part of SoundCloud rap wave. His face tattoos and drug-adjacent persona fit the emo-rap trend.
Total Xanarchy Debut Album
Debut album Total Xanarchy debuted at #10 but received overwhelmingly negative reviews. Despite commercial success, he was viewed as lowest common denominator of SoundCloud era.
Tupac Comments Controversy
Called Tupac's music boring, sparking massive backlash and cementing reputation as disrespectful and ignorant. This alienated older hip-hop fans and damaged credibility.
Career Rapidly Declines
Follow-up projects flopped and his relevance evaporated as quickly as it arrived. Personal issues and erratic behavior contributed to industry abandonment.
Largely Forgotten
Has released minimal music to no attention and become cautionary tale of viral fame. Represents the most disposable tier of SoundCloud rap era artists.
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Last updated: February 25, 2026