NBA YoungBoy: Age and the Rise of a Young Rap Star

Kentrell DeSean Gaulden, better known by his stage name NBA YoungBoy or YoungBoy Never Broke Again, is a prominent figure in the modern rap scene. Despite his relatively young age, NBA YoungBoy has managed to captivate audiences worldwide with his raw, emotional, and deeply personal music. With multiple chart-topping albums and a massive fan base, his influence in the music industry is undeniable. In this article, we explore NBA YoungBoy’s age, his rise to fame, and how his youth has played a pivotal role in his career trajectory.

NBA YoungBoy’s Age: How Old is He?

NBA YoungBoy was born on October 20, 1999, which makes him 24 years old as of 2024. His relatively young age has often been a topic of discussion in the music world, especially considering how much he has accomplished in such a short period. Starting his career as a teenager, NBA YoungBoy has consistently remained in the spotlight, releasing music that resonates with both young and older audiences.

Early Life and Struggles: Growing Up Fast

Kentrell Gaulden grew up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, a city known for its high crime rate and challenging living conditions. Raised primarily by his grandmother after his father was sentenced to 55 years in prison, Gaulden had a difficult upbringing. His mother wasn’t a stable presence in his life, and he found himself involved in trouble at a young age. These hardships shaped much of his music, which often explores themes of loss, pain, and survival.

Dropping out of school in the ninth grade, NBA YoungBoy turned to music as an outlet. He started recording songs at the age of 14, using a cheap microphone. His early experiences in Baton Rouge heavily influenced his lyrical content, making his songs relatable to many who face similar struggles. His tough upbringing gave him a sense of urgency in his music career, knowing that music could be his only way out of a life of hardship.

Breakthrough at a Young Age

NBA YoungBoy’s breakthrough came early. At the age of 16, he released his debut mixtape, Life Before Fame, in 2015. Though this release didn’t initially attract much attention, it laid the groundwork for what would come next. His follow-up project, 38 Baby, released in 2016, quickly gained attention and solidified his place in the rap scene. The tape included features from other Baton Rouge rappers like Boosie Badazz and Kevin Gates, further elevating his status.

At just 17 years old, NBA YoungBoy was already building a loyal fanbase. His age made his rise even more notable, as he showed a maturity in his lyrics that went beyond his years. By 18, he had already faced numerous legal challenges, including being arrested for attempted first-degree murder, which only heightened his notoriety.

Legal Troubles and Personal Challenges

Throughout his young life, NBA YoungBoy has faced a series of legal problems, beginning with his attempted murder charges at the age of 17. These legal issues have played a significant role in his life and career, with multiple arrests over the years. Despite this, NBA YoungBoy has used his struggles as fuel for his music, turning his pain into art that resonates with millions of fans.

At such a young age, NBA YoungBoy’s legal troubles have often overshadowed his musical achievements. However, his ability to continue producing music, even in the face of adversity, has endeared him to his fans. His lyrics reflect his lived experiences, making him one of the most authentic voices in the rap industry. While many artists may fabricate their stories, YoungBoy’s authenticity sets him apart, and his age only adds to his story of perseverance and resilience.

Music Career Success: A Prolific Artist at 24

Despite all the challenges, NBA YoungBoy’s music career has flourished. He is known for being one of the most prolific artists in the industry, frequently releasing mixtapes, albums, and singles. His 2017 mixtape AI YoungBoy was a turning point in his career, debuting at number 24 on the Billboard 200 and catapulting him to new heights of fame. His music videos, especially on YouTube, often garner millions of views, with his raw, unpolished approach connecting deeply with his audience.

At just 24 years old, NBA YoungBoy has already achieved multiple chart-topping albums. In 2019, his album AI YoungBoy 2 debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, cementing his status as a top-tier rapper. His music often blends the streetwise grit of Southern rap with deeply personal narratives, making him one of the most compelling artists of his generation.

The Impact of Age on His Career

NBA YoungBoy’s age has both helped and hindered his career. On one hand, his youth has made him relatable to younger audiences, who see him as a voice of their generation. His lyrics speak to the struggles and emotions of growing up in difficult environments, and his relentless output of music keeps him in the spotlight. His young age also allows him to stay in touch with trends and maintain relevance in the ever-changing music industry.

On the other hand, his age has also contributed to some of the challenges he has faced. His impulsive behavior and legal troubles can be partly attributed to his youth and the pressures of fame. However, these very challenges have also shaped his music, adding depth to his persona and making his lyrics more powerful.

Conclusion

At only 24 years old, NBA YoungBoy has achieved a level of success that many artists spend decades chasing. His age has been both a gift and a curse, allowing him to connect with a young audience while also presenting personal and legal obstacles. Despite these challenges, his determination, authenticity, and relentless work ethic have solidified his place in the rap industry. As he continues to grow, both as an artist and an individual, it’s clear that NBA YoungBoy’s age is just a number, and his potential is limitless.