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NBA YoungBoy, also known as YoungBoy Never Broke Again, is one of the most influential and prolific rappers of his generation. With a raw lyrical style and a relentless release schedule, he has built a loyal fanbase and a reputation for emotional honesty in his music. Despite legal troubles and mainstream controversies, his impact on the music industry continues to grow.

Early Life and Struggles

Born as Kentrell DeSean Gaulden on October 20, 1999, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, NBA YoungBoy faced challenges from an early age. Raised primarily by his grandmother, he turned to music as a way to escape a difficult environment. He dropped out of school in the ninth grade and began recording music using a microphone he bought from Walmart.

Breakthrough and Rise to Fame

NBA YoungBoy's breakthrough came in 2015 with the release of his mixtape Life Before Fame. He continued to release multiple mixtapes, including Mind of a Menace and 38 Baby, which earned him attention in the Southern rap scene. His gritty storytelling and aggressive delivery quickly made him a standout figure in hip-hop.

In 2017, he signed with Atlantic Records and released his debut studio album Until Death Call My Name in 2018, which debuted at number 7 on the Billboard 200. The hit single "Outside Today" became a defining track of his early career.

Recent Work:

In July 2025, NBA YoungBoy released his latest project, Make America Slime Again (MASA). The album dropped on Independence Day and featured six new songs including “Diesel,” “Priorities,” and the title track “MASA.” The release sparked controversy, especially due to the politically charged album title and public criticism from fellow rapper Kodak Black.

Legal Issues and Presidential Pardon

NBA YoungBoy has faced multiple legal issues, including gun possession charges and probation violations. In a surprising turn of events, he received a presidential pardon in March 2025 by former President Donald Trump. This unprecedented move wiped his federal record clean and allowed him to plan his return to the stage.

Personal Life

YoungBoy is married to Jazlyn Mychelle Hayes and is the father of at least ten children with several different women. Despite his young age, his lyrics often reflect themes of fatherhood, personal loss, and spiritual reflection. He remains a private individual, rarely giving interviews or making public appearances.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

NBA YoungBoy’s impact on hip-hop is undeniable. He is one of the most-streamed artists on YouTube, often reaching millions of views within hours of releasing new content. His music resonates with a younger audience who identify with his emotional vulnerability and rebellious energy.

Unlike many of his peers, YoungBoy avoids media appearances and traditional promotion, relying instead on organic fan support. This has solidified his image as an underground king with mainstream influence.

Conclusion

NBA YoungBoy's journey from a troubled teenager in Baton Rouge to a global hip-hop icon is a testament to his resilience and talent. In an industry full of trends and fleeting fame, he has carved out a unique lane defined by authenticity and raw emotion. As he continues to evolve, his voice remains one of the most important in contemporary rap.