Kevin Gates has carved out a distinctive lane in hip-hop with his brutally honest lyricism, melodic versatility, and unfiltered storytelling. The Baton Rouge native’s catalog runs deep with tracks that showcase his willingness to be vulnerable while maintaining street credibility. From his breakout mixtape moments to chart-topping albums, Gates has consistently delivered music that resonates with fans who appreciate raw authenticity. His ability to blend street narratives with introspective reflection has made him one of the most compelling voices in modern rap. Whether you’re vibing through your favorite songs or experiencing his bass-heavy production through quality audio equipment, Gates’ discography offers something for every mood.
2 Phones
“2 Phones” stands as Kevin Gates’ biggest commercial breakthrough, peaking at number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2015. The track’s minimalist production, crafted by Mad Max and B.A.M., creates an infectious bounce that perfectly complements Gates’ conversational flow about managing multiple relationships and business lines. The hook’s simplicity—repeating the concept of juggling two phones—became instantly memorable and spawned countless social media moments. Gates’ delivery here showcases his knack for turning everyday street scenarios into relatable anthems, with his Louisiana drawl adding regional authenticity to every bar. The song’s success helped propel his album “Islah” to platinum status and remains his most-streamed track across platforms.
Really Really
Released as the second single from “Islah,” “Really Really” demonstrates Gates’ melodic capabilities while maintaining his signature gritty edge. The production features hypnotic keys and hard-hitting 808s that create a perfect backdrop for Gates to flex both his singing and rapping skills. Lyrically, the track finds Gates reflecting on his come-up, personal relationships, and the authenticity that separates him from industry facades. The song climbed to number 42 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has accumulated hundreds of millions of streams. What makes “Really Really” special is how Gates seamlessly transitions between sung choruses and rapid-fire verses, showcasing the versatility that defines his artistic approach.
I Don’t Get Tired (feat. August Alsina)
This collaboration with R&B crooner August Alsina became an instant classic upon its 2014 release, blending Gates’ street perspective with Alsina’s smooth vocal runs. The track’s production, handled by The Featherstones, features atmospheric synths and a driving rhythm that supports both artists’ contributions perfectly. Gates opens with memorable quotable lines about his work ethic and determination, setting the tone for a motivational anthem that resonated far beyond hip-hop circles. The chemistry between Gates and Alsina is undeniable, with each artist bringing distinct energy while maintaining cohesive musical direction. Through quality headphones, you can appreciate the layered production and how each vocal element sits in the mix.
Satellites
“Satellites” showcases Kevin Gates at his most introspective, delivering deeply personal lyrics over ethereal production that feels cinematic in scope. The song finds Gates reflecting on his journey, relationships, and the isolation that often accompanies success, with metaphorical references that elevate the songwriting beyond typical street rap. The production features lush instrumentation with spacious mixing that allows Gates’ vocals to breathe and carry emotional weight. This track demonstrates his growth as a songwriter, moving beyond surface-level narratives to explore complex emotional territory. The melodic approach here influenced a generation of rappers who blend vulnerability with street authenticity.
Thinking With My Dick (feat. Juicy J)
While the title might suggest something purely raunchy, “Thinking With My Dick” is actually a surprisingly melodic track where Gates and Juicy J explore making decisions driven by attraction rather than logic. The production is smooth and radio-friendly, with a catchy hook that made it a commercial success despite its explicit premise. Gates’ verse balances humor with self-awareness, acknowledging his flaws while delivering the kind of honest content his fans appreciate. Juicy J’s contribution adds veteran credibility and a different flavor to the track, creating an interesting generational bridge. The song’s popularity on streaming platforms demonstrates Gates’ ability to create hits that walk the line between club appeal and artistic substance.
By Any Means
Serving as both a song title and album name, “By Any Means” encapsulates Kevin Gates’ hustler mentality and determination to succeed regardless of obstacles. The track features hard-hitting production with aggressive drums and menacing bass that matches the intensity of Gates’ delivery. Lyrically, Gates details his street background, business acumen, and the code he lives by, delivering each line with conviction that makes listeners believe every word. The song’s energy makes it perfect for workout playlists or moments when you need motivational fuel. This track exemplifies why Gates connected so strongly with audiences who value authenticity over polish.
Kno One
“Kno One” finds Kevin Gates in a more contemplative space, reflecting on loyalty, betrayal, and the loneliness that comes with success. The production is stripped back compared to his bigger hits, allowing Gates’ storytelling to take center stage without competing with busy instrumentals. His vocal delivery alternates between melodic singing and conversational rapping, creating dynamic shifts that maintain listener engagement throughout. The song’s themes of isolation despite being surrounded by people resonate deeply with anyone who’s experienced success while losing genuine connections. Gates’ willingness to expose vulnerability without compromising his street image remains one of his most compelling artistic qualities.
Time for That
With its hypnotic production and repetitive hook, “Time for That” became a fan-favorite deep cut that showcases Gates’ ability to create infectious vibes. The track’s mixing emphasizes the low-end frequencies, making it a perfect test for quality earbuds and subwoofer systems. Gates delivers confident bars about having no time for fake people or distractions, maintaining focus on his goals and genuine relationships. The song’s minimalist approach proves that Gates doesn’t need elaborate production to create memorable music—his presence and delivery carry the weight. This track frequently appears in fan-curated playlists celebrating Gates’ mixtape era when he was building his devoted following.
Walls Talking
From his critically acclaimed album “I’m Him,” “Walls Talking” demonstrates Kevin Gates’ continued artistic evolution and willingness to experiment with his sound. The production features darker, more atmospheric elements with eerie melodies that create an almost haunting backdrop for Gates’ introspective lyrics. He delivers verses about privacy, secrets, and the things unsaid in relationships, using the metaphor of walls holding secrets to explore complex emotional territory. The song’s arrangement builds gradually, adding layers that reward repeat listens and careful attention. This track proves that even later in his career, Gates continues pushing his creative boundaries rather than settling into formulaic approaches.
Out the Mud
“Out the Mud” serves as a street anthem and personal testament to Kevin Gates’ journey from poverty to success. The production combines traditional Southern hip-hop elements with contemporary trap influences, creating a sound that honors Gates’ Louisiana roots while maintaining modern appeal. His lyrics detail specific struggles from his past, giving listeners insight into the experiences that shaped his perspective and artistry. The song’s hook is both simple and powerful, repeating the core message of rising from difficult circumstances through determination. This type of narrative-driven content separates Gates from artists who fabricate street credentials—his stories carry the weight of lived experience.
Fatal Attraction
“Fatal Attraction” showcases Kevin Gates’ romantic side, though filtered through his characteristic unfiltered honesty. The track features smooth, R&B-influenced production that creates a seductive atmosphere while Gates delivers lyrics about intense, potentially destructive attraction. His vocal performance here leans heavily into melody, demonstrating his versatility as both rapper and singer. The song’s title references the famous film, acknowledging that passion can become obsessive and dangerous when boundaries blur. Gates’ ability to explore relationship dynamics with this level of honesty—admitting flaws and complications—gives his music an authenticity that resonates with mature audiences.
Paper Chasers (feat. Starlito)
This collaboration with fellow Southern rapper Starlito creates a perfect chemistry as both artists trade verses about their hustler mentalities and dedication to securing financial freedom. The production is understated, allowing both rappers’ distinct voices and flows to shine without distraction. Gates and Starlito’s back-and-forth creates natural energy, with each artist pushing the other to deliver their best bars. The track’s theme of prioritizing money over drama remains timeless in hip-hop, but Gates and Starlito add personal specificity that elevates it beyond cliché. This song represents the mixtape collaboration culture that helped build Gates’ reputation before mainstream success.
Pride
“Pride” addresses one of Kevin Gates’ recurring themes—how ego can both motivate and damage personal growth and relationships. The production features contemplative melodies with moody instrumentation that matches the introspective lyrical content. Gates delivers verses examining his own prideful tendencies with remarkable self-awareness, acknowledging how this trait has affected his life choices. The song’s honest self-examination demonstrates emotional intelligence that many rappers avoid displaying publicly. This track particularly resonates with listeners who’ve experienced how pride can prevent apologies, damage relationships, or delay necessary change.
Me Too
From the “Luca Brasi 3” project, “Me Too” finds Kevin Gates responding to romantic interest with his characteristic bluntness and charisma. The production is modern and polished, with trap-influenced drums and melodic elements that create an accessible sound. Gates’ hook is catchy and straightforward, while his verses add personality and specific details that prevent the song from feeling generic. The track became a viral moment on social media platforms, with the hook spawning numerous user-generated content pieces. This demonstrates Gates’ continued relevance and ability to create moments that transcend traditional music consumption.
Pourin the Syrup
“Pourin the Syrup” addresses substance use with the kind of unfiltered honesty that defines Kevin Gates’ approach to controversial topics. Rather than glamorizing drug use, Gates delivers nuanced verses that acknowledge both the appeal and consequences of leaning. The production features slow, syrupy tempos that sonically mirror the song’s content, with hazy atmospheric elements creating an appropriately altered vibe. Gates’ willingness to discuss substance use without judgment or preaching separates him from artists who take simplistic moral stances. The song sparked important conversations about addiction and self-medication within hip-hop communities.
Change Lanes
“Change Lanes” combines motivational themes with flexing, as Gates celebrates success while encouraging listeners to elevate their own circumstances. The production is energetic and uptempo, featuring bright synth melodies and punchy drums that create immediate head-nodding momentum. Gates’ delivery is confident and assertive, with quotable bars about leaving negative situations and people behind while pursuing greater opportunities. The song’s title metaphor of switching lanes applies to various life aspects—relationships, careers, mindsets—making it widely relatable. This type of empowerment anthem showcases how Gates balances street content with more universally applicable messages.
Bookie
From his “Only the Generals Gon Understand” project, “Bookie” finds Kevin Gates reflecting on trust issues and the people who bet against his success. The production features menacing bass and sparse instrumentation that puts Gates’ vocal performance front and center. His lyrics name-check specific situations and people, delivering the kind of detailed storytelling that makes listeners feel they’re getting unfiltered truth. The song’s edge comes from Gates’ ability to sound threatening without resorting to typical tough-guy clichés—his intelligence shows through even in aggressive content. This track reminds fans why Gates’ mixtape runs built such loyal followings before mainstream attention arrived.
Big Gangsta
“Big Gangsta” delivers exactly what its title promises—Kevin Gates affirming his street credibility while reflecting on the lifestyle’s realities. The production is hard and uncompromising, with aggressive drums and dark melodies that create an intimidating atmosphere. Gates’ vocal delivery is forceful and commanding, with each bar delivered with conviction that makes doubting him impossible. However, even within this street anthem, Gates includes thoughtful observations about loyalty, consequences, and the costs of maintaining certain reputations. The song demonstrates how Gates elevates standard gangsta rap tropes through personal specificity and emotional complexity.
Great Example
“Great Example” finds Kevin Gates addressing fatherhood and his desire to provide positive guidance despite his imperfect past. The production is surprisingly uplifting compared to his darker material, with inspiring melodies that complement the song’s aspirational themes. Gates delivers vulnerable verses about wanting to break generational curses and give his children better examples than he received growing up. This type of content shows artistic maturity and willingness to explore themes beyond typical rapper subject matter. The song resonates particularly strongly with parents who relate to wanting better for their children while grappling with their own mistakes and limitations.
Bags
Closing our list, “Bags” represents Kevin Gates’ continued relevance with newer material that maintains his core appeal while showing artistic growth. The production is contemporary and polished, incorporating current sonic trends without sacrificing Gates’ distinctive sound. His lyrics focus on securing financial success and maintaining relationships that support rather than drain his energy. The song’s hook is memorable and repeatable, designed for both streaming success and live performance energy. “Bags” proves that Gates remains committed to delivering authentic content that resonates with his core fanbase while remaining accessible to newer listeners discovering his catalog.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kevin Gates’ most popular song?
“2 Phones” remains Kevin Gates’ most commercially successful track, reaching number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning multi-platinum certification. The song’s catchy hook and relatable concept about managing multiple phones for different purposes resonated widely beyond his core fanbase. Its success helped propel his debut studio album “Islah” to platinum status and introduced Gates to mainstream audiences who might not have followed his extensive mixtape catalog.
What album is Kevin Gates best known for?
“Islah,” released in January 2016, stands as Kevin Gates’ most successful and well-known album, debuting at number two on the Billboard 200 and eventually achieving double platinum certification. The album showcased Gates’ versatility with hits like “2 Phones” and “Really Really” while including deeper cuts that satisfied longtime fans. Named after his daughter, the project balanced commercial appeal with the raw authenticity that built his reputation during his mixtape era.
Is Kevin Gates considered a Louisiana rapper?
Yes, Kevin Gates is definitively a Louisiana rapper, born and raised in Baton Rouge, though he spent significant time in New Orleans as well. His music incorporates the distinctive Louisiana accent, regional production influences, and cultural references that identify him clearly with the state’s hip-hop tradition. Gates represents Louisiana’s continued influence on Southern hip-hop alongside artists like Lil Wayne, Boosie Badazz, and younger generation representatives carrying the region’s musical legacy forward.
What makes Kevin Gates’ music unique?
Kevin Gates distinguishes himself through brutally honest lyrics that address topics many rappers avoid, including mental health, relationship complexities, spirituality, and personal flaws. His willingness to be vulnerable while maintaining street credibility creates an unusual balance that resonates with diverse audiences. Additionally, his melodic versatility allows him to seamlessly blend singing and rapping, creating dynamic songs that showcase technical skill alongside emotional depth and authentic storytelling.
Has Kevin Gates won any major awards?
While Kevin Gates hasn’t won major mainstream awards like Grammys, he’s achieved significant commercial success with platinum certifications and chart-topping projects. His influence is perhaps better measured through his devoted fanbase, impressive streaming numbers, and impact on younger artists who cite him as inspiration. Gates represents the type of artist who maintains career longevity and credibility through consistent output and authentic connection with listeners rather than industry validation.