Kevin Gates is one of the most raw and unfiltered voices in modern hip-hop. Known for his intense lyricism, soulful vocals, and deeply personal storytelling, he has built a massive, loyal following that connects with his authenticity and spiritual journey.
Below is a comprehensive and up-to-date biography of Kevin Gates.
Kevin Gates Biography
Born Kevin Jerome Gilyard on February 5, 1986, in New Orleans and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Kevin Gates’ life has been a story of resilience. His upbringing was marked by early challenges, but he found solace in literature and music. A highly intelligent individual, Gates famously earned a Master’s degree in Psychology through a prison program, a testament to his dedication to self-improvement even in the darkest of times. He is also known for his spiritual journey, having openly practiced Islam and performed the Hajj pilgrimage.
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Career
Gates began his career in 2007 with a series of mixtapes that established him as a force in the Southern rap scene. His breakthrough came with the 2013 mixtape The Luca Brasi Story, which earned critical acclaim.
His debut studio album, Islah (2016), debuted at #2 on the Billboard 200 and was certified double platinum. Since then, he has released a steady stream of successful projects, including I’m Him (2019), Khaza (2022), and his recent 2024 album, The Ceremony. In 2025, he has remained prolific, releasing singles like “I’m a Dog” and “Fuk Em,” while continuing to tour globally.
Top Kevin Gates Songs
- “2 Phones”: His most famous commercial hit, highlighting his dual lifestyle.
- “Really Really”: A high-energy anthem about authenticity.
- “Me Too”: A melodic track that showcases his R&B sensibilities.
- “I Don’t Get Tired” (feat. August Alsina): The song that birthed his famous “IDGT” mantra.
- “Thinking with My Dick” (feat. Juicy J): A viral TikTok sensation that saw a massive resurgence in recent years.
Kevin Gates Net Worth
As of late 2025, Kevin Gates’ net worth is estimated at $4 million. His income is generated through a mix of high-grossing music tours, album sales, and his independent record label, Bread Winners’ Association. However, recent legal filings in late 2025 have highlighted financial complexities amidst his ongoing divorce proceedings.
Family
Family is a recurring theme in Gates’ music; he famously named his first two studio albums after his children, Islah (daughter) and Khaza (son). He has often credited his children for providing him with a sense of purpose and grounding.
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Relationships and Dating History
Kevin Gates and Dreka Gates
Dreka Gates was Kevin’s longtime partner, wife, and business manager for nearly two decades. The two co-founded the Bread Winners’ Association and were seen as a “power couple” in hip-hop. However, in July 2025, Dreka officially filed for divorce after nine years of marriage, citing irreconcilable differences. In October 2025, she requested approximately $73,000 per month in combined child and spousal support.
Kevin Gates and Brittany Renner
In a move that shocked fans, media personality Brittany Renner revealed in mid-2025 that she and Kevin had a secret “spiritual marriage.” The relationship was short-lived, lasting only 52 days, from April 6 to May 28, 2025. During their brief union, Renner converted to Islam and adopted a more modest lifestyle. Despite the quick split, she stated she had “no regrets” and gave the relationship her all.
Kevin Gates and Jelenny Tejada
Following his split from Renner, Gates began dating Jelenny Tejada, a 26-year-old U.S. Marine veteran and influencer. The couple first went viral after an appearance on a livestream at an LSU game. Gates has publicly defended their 13-year age gap on social media, making it clear that he is happy and unbothered by public opinion.
Controversies
Kevin Gates is never far from the headlines due to his unfiltered commentary and legal history. In 2024 and 2025, he faced social media backlash for comments regarding age and dating, as well as scrutiny over his financial management during his divorce. Historically, he has faced legal issues ranging from a 2016 battery conviction for kicking a fan at a concert to weapons charges, though he has consistently used his platform to speak on the lessons learned from his time incarcerated.
Kevin Gates’ Age and Instagram
As of late 2025, Kevin Gates is 39 years old. He maintains a massive and highly engaged presence on Instagram (@kevingates), where he shares everything from workout routines and motivational “General Spark” speeches to updates on his latest music and tour dates.
Conclusion
Kevin Gates remains one of hip-hop’s most enigmatic figures. He is a man of contradictions, a philosopher and a street legend, a family man and a provocateur. As he navigates a transformative 2025, his ability to speak his truth regardless of the consequences ensures his place as a permanent fixture in the culture.