Kentrell DeSean Gaulden, known professionally as YoungBoy Never Broke Again, is an influential American rapper, singer, and songwriter hailing from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Born on October 20, 1999, he gained recognition for his unique style and emotive lyrics that resonate with a wide audience. YoungBoy’s rise to fame was marked by the release of his hit single "Untouchable" in 2017, which established him as a prominent figure in the hip-hop genre.

YoungBoy's musical journey began in his teenage years when he released eight mixtapes from 2015 to 2017, gaining a regional following that set the stage for his later success. In 2017, he signed with Atlantic Records and the Artist Partner Group, which propelled him into the national spotlight. His single "Outside Today," released in January 2018, became his first entry into the top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100 and received quadruple platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). This track also served as the lead single for his debut studio album, "Until Death Call My Name," which peaked at number seven on the US Billboard 200 despite receiving mixed reviews from critics.

In 2019, YoungBoy experienced a significant breakthrough with his single "Bandit," featuring the late Juice Wrld, which marked his first top ten entry on the Billboard Hot 100. Following this success, he released "AI YoungBoy 2," a commercial mixtape that debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, achieving remarkable success with each of its tracks being certified gold by the RIAA. His subsequent projects, including "38 Baby 2" and "Top," further solidified his status, making him the second hip-hop artist to top the Billboard 200 three times in a single year.

YoungBoy's third studio album, "Sincerely, Kentrell," was released during his incarceration and made history by debuting at the top of the Billboard 200, making him one of the few imprisoned artists to achieve such a feat. His follow-up album, "The Last Slimeto," released in 2022, peaked at number two on the Billboard 200 and marked the end of his tenure with Atlantic Records. In 2023, he signed with Motown, releasing two albums, "I Rest My Case" and "Don't Try This at Home," both of which also entered the top ten despite mixed critical reception.

Throughout his career, YoungBoy has amassed an impressive discography, selling over 109 million digital copies in the United States and becoming one of the highest-certified artists in the country. He has garnered an astonishing 15 billion views on his YouTube channel, ranking him among the most-viewed rappers on the platform. He holds the record for being the youngest artist in Billboard history to chart 100 singles on the Billboard Hot 100 and has achieved numerous RIAA certifications, including 126 certified titles, the most of any rapper in history.

Despite his musical achievements, YoungBoy's career has been marred by legal troubles, which began in 2016 and continued to impact his life and work. He has faced multiple arrests, including a significant incident in 2020 that led to federal charges. YoungBoy spent a considerable amount of time in jail and on house arrest, from which he was released in 2025 after serving a sentence. His legal battles have not only shaped his life but also influenced his music, as he often reflects on his experiences in his work.

In addition to his music career, YoungBoy founded the record label Never Broke Again in 2015, allowing him to nurture and promote new talent, including artists like NoCap and Quando Rondo. As he continues to release new music and evolve as an artist, YoungBoy Never Broke Again remains a significant force in the hip-hop industry, with a dedicated fan base and a legacy that showcases both his talent and resilience.