NBA YoungBoy, also known as YoungBoy Never Broke Again, is one of the most compelling and polarizing figures in the modern rap scene. Born as Kentrell DeSean Gaulden on October 20, 1999, the young artist has experienced a meteoric rise to fame while navigating a tumultuous personal life that has been riddled with legal troubles, controversies, and deep personal struggles. As of January 2025, NBA YoungBoy is 25 years old, yet his accomplishments and challenges make it feel like he has lived multiple lifetimes within the span of his young career.
This article delves into NBA YoungBoy’s journey—his childhood, rise to fame, music career, controversies, and impact on hip-hop culture—shedding light on what makes him such a standout figure in the world of music.
Early Life and Upbringing: A Journey of Survival
Kentrell DeSean Gaulden was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, an environment that would later shape the themes and intensity of his music. NBA YoungBoy’s childhood was anything but easy. He grew up in a household plagued by instability, as his father was sentenced to 55 years in prison when Kentrell was only a toddler. His mother struggled to provide for him, and YoungBoy eventually ended up being raised by his grandmother, who became a central figure in his life.
However, tragedy struck again when his grandmother passed away. Left without a stable home or parental guidance, Kentrell had to fend for himself from a young age. This period of hardship heavily influenced the raw emotion and vivid storytelling found in his lyrics. His music often delves into themes of pain, loss, betrayal, and survival—reflecting the environment that shaped him.
YoungBoy dropped out of school in the ninth grade to pursue music full-time. However, this decision didn’t come without its risks. During his teenage years, he found himself entangled in street life, eventually getting arrested for robbery. He spent time in a juvenile detention center, which, in a sense, served as the beginning of his music career. During his time there, he began writing lyrics and sharpening his craft, vowing to turn his life around upon release.
The Birth of NBA YoungBoy: A Star in the Making
Upon his release, Kentrell adopted the stage name NBA YoungBoy (an acronym for “Never Broke Again”) and began uploading his music online. His breakthrough came in 2015, when he released the mixtape Life Before Fame, which showcased his ability to channel raw emotion and lived experiences into his music. This was followed by a series of mixtapes, including Mind of a Menace and Mind of a Menace 2, which helped him build a growing fanbase.
However, it was the release of his 2016 mixtape 38 Baby that truly put him on the map. With songs like “38 Baby” and “No Smoke,” NBA YoungBoy showcased a unique blend of melodic rap, gritty storytelling, and emotional vulnerability that resonated with listeners. His raw delivery and unfiltered lyrics made him a voice for those who grew up in similar circumstances, and his music began to gain traction on platforms like YouTube and SoundCloud.
By 2017, NBA YoungBoy was solidifying his place in the rap world. His breakout single “Untouchable” became a viral hit, and his ability to connect with listeners through his authenticity set him apart from many of his peers. He had quickly become one of the hottest new artists in the industry, earning comparisons to rap legends like Lil Wayne and Boosie Badazz, both of whom also hail from Louisiana.
Musical Evolution and Success
NBA YoungBoy’s career trajectory has been marked by prolific output and an unwavering connection with his fans. Despite facing legal troubles and personal setbacks, YoungBoy has consistently released music that dominates charts and garners millions of streams. As of 2025, he has released numerous mixtapes, albums, and singles, solidifying his status as one of the most streamed artists in the world.
One of the defining features of NBA YoungBoy’s music is its emotional depth. He is unafraid to explore themes of pain, heartbreak, and betrayal, often drawing from his own life experiences. His songs frequently touch on topics such as mental health, street violence, and the struggles of young fatherhood. This level of vulnerability has made him a favorite among fans who see their own struggles reflected in his music.
In 2020, YoungBoy’s album Top debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, cementing his position as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. This was followed by other successful projects, including Sincerely, Kentrell (2021), The Last Slimeto (2022), and I Rest My Case (2023). Each project showcased his growth as an artist, with a mix of introspective tracks and hard-hitting anthems.
YoungBoy’s prolific output is one of the reasons for his sustained success. He has an unparalleled work ethic, often releasing multiple projects in a single year. This constant stream of new music keeps his fans engaged and eager for more, solidifying his place in the ever-competitive rap industry.
A Controversial Figure
While NBA YoungBoy’s musical talent is undeniable, his career has also been marred by controversy. Legal troubles, feuds, and public disputes have often overshadowed his accomplishments, making him one of the most polarizing figures in hip-hop.
YoungBoy has faced numerous legal issues over the years, including arrests for firearms possession, assault, and drug-related charges. In some instances, his legal troubles have even landed him in jail, disrupting his career and personal life. However, each time he faces adversity, YoungBoy seems to come back stronger, using his music as a way to process his struggles and connect with his audience.
Feuds with other artists have also made headlines. YoungBoy has been involved in public disputes with fellow rappers such as Lil Durk, NLE Choppa, and Kodak Black. These feuds have often played out on social media and in diss tracks, further fueling the drama surrounding his name.
Despite these controversies, NBA YoungBoy remains one of the most beloved artists in hip-hop. His ability to bounce back from setbacks and maintain his focus on music speaks to his resilience and determination.
Personal Life: Fatherhood and Growth
One of the most talked-about aspects of NBA YoungBoy’s personal life is his role as a father. As of 2025, YoungBoy reportedly has 11 children with multiple women, a fact that has often been a topic of discussion in the media. While this has led to criticism from some quarters, YoungBoy has spoken about his deep love for his children and his desire to provide them with a better life than the one he had growing up.
Fatherhood seems to have had a profound impact on YoungBoy. In interviews and on social media, he has expressed his commitment to being present in his children’s lives, despite the challenges of balancing his career and personal responsibilities. This has added another layer of complexity to his public image, showing a more compassionate and responsible side to a figure often portrayed as troubled and controversial.
In recent years, YoungBoy has also opened up about his struggles with mental health. He has spoken candidly about feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety, shedding light on the emotional toll of fame and success. His willingness to address these issues in his music and interviews has made him a voice for mental health awareness in the hip-hop community, resonating with fans who face similar struggles.
Impact on Hip-Hop Culture
NBA YoungBoy’s influence on hip-hop culture cannot be overstated. His ability to connect with listeners through his unfiltered lyrics and emotional storytelling has made him a trailblazer in the genre. Unlike many artists who rely on flashy personas or gimmicks, YoungBoy’s appeal lies in his authenticity and relatability.
He is also one of the most streamed artists of his generation. In 2023, it was reported that NBA YoungBoy had surpassed 10 billion streams on YouTube, making him one of the platform’s most dominant artists. His loyal fanbase, often referred to as the “Never Broke Again” community, has played a significant role in his success, rallying around him even during his most challenging moments.
YoungBoy’s influence extends beyond music. He has become a cultural icon for young people navigating the complexities of life in marginalized communities. His story of resilience and perseverance serves as an inspiration to many, showing that it is possible to rise above difficult circumstances and achieve greatness.
The Road Ahead
As NBA YoungBoy continues to evolve as an artist and individual, the future looks bright for the Baton Rouge native. At just 25 years old, he has already accomplished more than most artists do in a lifetime. However, his journey is far from over.
In recent years, YoungBoy has hinted at a desire to focus more on his personal growth and spend time with his family. While he remains committed to his music, he has also expressed an interest in exploring other ventures, such as business and philanthropy. These pursuits could help him cement his legacy not only as a rapper but as a cultural icon and role model.
One thing is certain: NBA YoungBoy’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and unyielding determination. Despite the challenges he has faced, he has emerged as one of the most important voices of his generation, using his music to tell his story and inspire others.
Conclusion
NBA YoungBoy is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-expression. From a difficult childhood in Baton Rouge to becoming one of the most streamed artists in the world, he has defied the odds and created a legacy that will endure for years to come. While his journey has been marked by controversy and personal struggles, it is also a story of growth, resilience, and the transformative power of music.
At just 25 years old, NBA YoungBoy’s journey is far from over. As he continues to evolve as an artist and individual, his impact on hip-hop culture and the lives of his fans will undoubtedly continue to grow. Whether you view him as a troubled figure or a musical genius, one thing is undeniable: NBA YoungBoy is a force to be reckoned with, and his story is one that will continue to captivate and inspire
