product description
NBA YoungBoy, whose real name is Kentrell DeSean Gaulden, has carved a unique space for himself in the world of hip-hop. Born in 1999 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, he rose from a difficult childhood to become one of the most talked-about and streamed artists in rap today. Known for his emotional vulnerability, aggressive delivery, and relentless work ethic, YoungBoy’s journey is one of both brilliance and complexity.
From the Streets of Baton Rouge to the Studio
YoungBoy grew up in a tough environment. With his father serving a long prison sentence, he was raised by his grandmother. After her passing, life became even more chaotic, but music became his escape. By the age of 14, he had already begun recording music with a cheap microphone and laptop. His early mixtapes, filled with raw energy and emotional storytelling, quickly earned him a loyal underground following.
Breakthrough and Success
His mixtape AI YoungBoy, released in 2017, marked a turning point. Songs like "No Smoke" and "Untouchable" helped him gain national attention, and his emotional honesty set him apart from many of his peers. In 2018, his debut studio album Until Death Call My Name solidified his spot in the industry, with hit singles reaching high positions on the Billboard charts.
Over the years, he has released numerous projects, including studio albums, collaborative mixtapes, and countless singles. Despite limited media appearances and no major radio promotion, YoungBoy has managed to dominate streaming platforms, particularly YouTube, where he consistently ranks among the most-viewed artists in the United States.
A Digital Powerhouse
NBA YoungBoy is widely recognized as one of the kings of YouTube. His fanbase is intensely loyal and engages deeply with every release. Without relying heavily on traditional marketing, he’s built a digital empire purely through consistency, authenticity, and volume. His ability to release multiple projects a year — sometimes even a month — keeps his audience constantly tuned in.
Legal Struggles and Personal Life
Despite his musical success, YoungBoy’s career has often been overshadowed by legal issues. From firearm charges to recent legal cases involving prescription drug fraud, his run-ins with the law have been frequent. In 2024, he received a 27-month federal prison sentence along with supervised probation, which he is currently serving.
In his personal life, YoungBoy is a father to ten children with eight different women. He often includes them in his videos and social media, showing a softer side that contrasts with his aggressive musical persona. While his family life is unconventional, he often speaks about how much his children mean to him.
The Return to Touring
After years of legal restrictions and house arrest, YoungBoy is finally preparing to return to the stage. In 2025, he announced the “Make America Slime Again” (MASA) Tour, his first since 2020. With over 30 dates across North America, fans are excited to see him perform live again. The tour marks a significant moment in his career as he steps back into the spotlight with a new level of energy and ambition.
Final Thoughts
NBA YoungBoy’s story is far from typical. He’s a symbol of the struggles and triumphs that come with growing up in hardship and finding success on your own terms. His music speaks to a generation that values authenticity, and his impact on hip-hop continues to grow. Whether you love him or criticize him, there’s no denying that NBA YoungBoy is one of the most influential artists of his time — raw, real, and relentlessly driven.