Kevin Gates (born Kevin Jerome Gilyard on February 5, 1986) is an American rapper, singer, and entrepreneur known for his emotionally raw lyrics, melodic hooks, and deep reflections on life, pain, and perseverance. Hailing from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Gates first gained major attention in the early 2010s with a series of critically acclaimed mixtapes, including The Luca Brasi Story (2013), which showcased his storytelling abilities and gritty authenticity.
His official debut album, Islah, released in 2016, was a commercial success—peaking at number two on the Billboard 200 and earning platinum certification. The album featured hit singles like “2 Phones” and “Really Really,” and marked Gates as a major force in hip-hop. His music often blends personal confession with street-wise insight, addressing themes such as incarceration, relationships, spirituality, and personal transformation.
Despite numerous legal issues, including arrests and jail time, Gates has maintained a prolific output. He’s released several successful projects post-Islah, including By Any Means 2 (2017), I’m Him (2019), Khaza (2022), and The Ceremony (2024). Known for his introspective nature, Gates often speaks openly about his past struggles, mental health, and spiritual growth—he converted to Islam and completed a pilgrimage to Mecca in 2016.
In addition to music, he co-founded the independent label Bread Winners’ Association with his wife, Dreka Gates, with whom he shares two children. His charismatic, unapologetic style and ability to evolve artistically while staying grounded in real-life experiences have earned him both critical respect and a devoted fanbase.
Today, Kevin Gates stands as a voice of resilience, representing the complexity of human experience in the modern hip-hop landscape.
