Islah Koren Gates: Kevin Gates’ Daughter & Her Life in the Spotlight

Islah Koren Gates stands at the intersection of celebrity legacy and childhood privacy. Born to rapper Kevin Gates and entrepreneur Dreka Gates, she carries a name that topped music charts before she could walk.

Who Is Islah Koren Gates?

Islah Koren Gates is the daughter of Louisiana rapper Kevin Gates and businesswoman Dreka Gates. Born on November 30, 2012, she gained recognition when her father named his debut studio album after her in 2016. The album debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 and earned triple platinum certification from the RIAA.

Her name carries significant meaning. “Islah” translates to “to make better” or “improve” in Arabic, while her middle name, “Koren,” means “bright” or “shining.” Kevin Gates explained he named the album after his daughter because of the anticipation surrounding both the album and her birth, describing mixed emotions of fear and excitement.

As of 2025, Islah is 12 years old. She lives primarily with her family, away from constant public scrutiny despite her famous lineage.

The Album That Made Her Famous

Kevin Gates released “Islah” on January 29, 2016, through Bread Winners’ Association and Atlantic Records. The album featured hit singles including “2 Phones,” “Really Really,” “Kno One,” and “Time for That.”

Commercial performance exceeded expectations. The album sold 112,000 album equivalent units in its first week, including 93,000 pure album sales. “2 Phones” became Gates’ first top 40 hit, peaking at number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning five-times platinum certification.

Critics praised the album’s emotional depth. At Metacritic, “Islah” received an average score of 81 based on 10 reviews. The project showcased Gates’ ability to blend street narratives with confessional lyrics, creating what many considered one of 2016’s standout releases.

The album’s success cemented Islah’s name in popular culture. Every stream and sale connects back to the young girl who inspired her father’s most successful work.

Family Background & Parents

Kevin Gates: From Underground to Mainstream

Kevin Jerome Gilyard, known professionally as Kevin Gates, was born February 5, 1986. He is signed to Bread Winners’ Association with a partnership with Atlantic Records. His music blends autobiographical lyrics with Southern production, addressing themes of struggle, growth, and family.

Gates’ career trajectory shows remarkable persistence. Before “Islah,” he released multiple mixtapes that built a loyal underground following. His breakout came with “The Luca Brasi Story” in 2013, which received critical acclaim and set the stage for his major label debut.

He has two children with Dreka: Islah and her younger brother Khaza Kamil Gates, born in 2014. Gates has mentioned having other children from previous relationships, though he keeps them largely out of the public eye.

Dreka Gates: The Businesswoman Behind the Brand

Dreka Gates, born Shadreka Centuri Haynes on August 31, 1986, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is a multifaceted entrepreneur, wellness advocate, and social media influencer. She co-founded Bread Winners’ Association with Kevin Gates in 2010 and served as his booking manager.

Her business ventures extend far beyond music management. Dreka owns Love’s Harvest, a cannabis company selling CBD products, bath salts, gummy candies, and infused herbs. She also runs Dreka Wellness, a skincare line focused on holistic health.

In 2020, Dreka purchased a 43-acre family farm in Summit, Mississippi, marking a significant lifestyle shift. The farm allows her to combine her family’s agricultural history with modern wellness practices.

Dreka maintains a strong social media presence with over 180,000 YouTube subscribers and millions of Instagram followers. She shares insights on entrepreneurship, motherhood, and wellness, positioning herself as more than just a celebrity spouse.

Growing Up in the Public Eye

Islah’s upbringing differs from typical celebrity children. Her parents prioritize privacy while occasionally sharing curated glimpses of family life. Kevin and Dreka choose not to give Islah a public Instagram account, making a conscious choice to prioritize their children’s safety and mental well-being over digital fame.

She appears in rare posts on her parents’ verified accounts, usually showing normal childhood activities like school projects, family vacations, or bonding moments. These glimpses are intentional and controlled.

Kevin Gates has mentioned in interviews how crucial it is to shield his children from the pressures and negativity that can come with a public online presence. This protective approach allows Islah to develop her identity without constant public scrutiny.

Both Islah and her brother have been homeschooled, giving their parents greater control over their education and daily environment. This decision reflects the Gates family’s commitment to maintaining normalcy despite their celebrity status.

Life Beyond the Spotlight

At 12 years old, Islah focuses on her education and childhood development. She shows early signs of confidence and creativity, though her parents keep specific details private.

Her relationship with her younger brother Khaza, appears close based on occasional family photos. Kevin Gates released his third studio album, “Khaza,” in 2022, naming it after his son just as he did with Islah. This parallel demonstrates his equal devotion to both children.

The family’s approach to raising children in the spotlight sets them apart from many celebrity parents. They maintain strict boundaries about what gets shared publicly while still allowing fans occasional access to family moments.

Islah’s mixed heritage includes Puerto Rican and African American ancestry through her grandparents, giving her a diverse cultural background that her parents celebrate.

The Gates Family Today

The Gates family dynamic has recently shifted. In July 2025, Dreka Gates filed for divorce in Los Angeles County Superior Court, citing irreconcilable differences with a separation date of July 10, 2025. Dreka requested joint legal and physical custody of their two minor children, emphasizing that she has been the primary caregiver, spending roughly 95% of her time with the children since 2023.

This development marks a significant transition for Islah and her brother. Despite the marriage dissolution, both parents appear committed to co-parenting and maintaining stability for their children.

The divorce proceedings include discussions of support and custody arrangements. Dreka’s filings alleged that Kevin “dismantled the financial foundation of their family” in late 2021 by cutting off funds for essential expenses, including property taxes and private school tuition.

Regardless of their parents’ relationship status, Islah continues to benefit from two dedicated parents with substantial resources and a shared commitment to her well-being.

What the Future Holds

Islah Koren Gates has her entire life ahead of her. Whether she follows her father into music, her mother into entrepreneurship, or carves a completely different path remains to be seen.

Her name will always be connected to one of the most successful rap albums of the 2010s. The “Islah” album has been certified triple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America, ensuring her name’s place in hip-hop history.

The foundation her parents built provides Islah with opportunities and resources. Kevin Gates’ estimated $4 million net worth and Dreka’s $2 million net worth give their daughter financial security. More importantly, both parents demonstrate strong work ethics and business acumen that may inspire her future endeavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

How old is Islah Koren Gates?

Islah Koren Gates is 12 years old as of 2025, born November 30, 2012.

Does Islah Koren Gates have social media?

No. Her parents intentionally keep her off social media to protect her privacy and childhood.

What does the name Islah mean?

Islah means “to make better” or “improve” in Arabic. Koren means “bright” or “shining.”

How successful was Kevin Gates’ “Islah” album?

The album debuted at number two on Billboard 200, sold 112,000 units first week, and earned triple platinum certification.

Who is Islah’s mother?

Her mother is Dreka Gates (née Haynes), an entrepreneur who runs cannabis, wellness, and skincare businesses.

Conclusion

Islah Koren Gates represents a new generation of celebrity children whose parents actively balance public interest with private childhood. Her name carries a musical legacy through her father’s platinum album, while her upbringing reflects thoughtful parenting decisions prioritizing normalcy over fame.

At 12, she stands at the beginning of her own journey. Whether she steps into the spotlight or chooses a private life, Islah has the foundation, resources, and parental support to succeed on her own terms. Her story reminds us that behind every album title and celebrity headline exists a real person deserving of childhood, privacy, and the space to grow.