What makes Only the Generals Gon Understand by Kevin Gates notable?

The album received significant attention for its unfiltered storytelling and debuted at number 17 on the Billboard 200 chart. Additionally, it showcased Gates' ability to blend vulnerability with bravado, influencing emerging artists within the Southern rap scene. Released on January 1, 2019, 'Only the Generals Gon Understand' marks Kevin Gates' return after a brief hiatus following his 2017 album, 'Islah'. At this point in his career, Gates was establishing himself as a prominent voice in Southern hip-hop, navigating both personal challenges and the evolving landscape of the genre.

Who is Only the Generals Gon Understand for?

Only the Generals Gon Understand works well if you're into short energetic listening experience, introspective themes of struggle and front-loaded intensity and urgency.

How many songs are on Only the Generals Gon Understand?

Only the Generals Gon Understand has 6 tracks, running approximately 18 minutes.

Only the Generals Gon Understand

Kevin Gates · 2019

18 min · 6 tracks · hip-hop · gangsta rap · hardcore hip-hop

A raw exploration of personal struggles set against gritty Southern beats and introspective lyricism.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

short energetic listening experience
introspective themes of struggle
front-loaded intensity and urgency
raw emotional honesty throughout

Maybe skip if you want

prefer longer, sprawling albums
seek polished mainstream production

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on January 1, 2019, 'Only the Generals Gon Understand' marks Kevin Gates' return after a brief hiatus following his 2017 album, 'Islah'. At this point in his career, Gates was establishing himself as a prominent voice in Southern hip-hop, navigating both personal challenges and the evolving landscape of the genre.
Stylistic neighbors: Boosie Badazz· YoungBoy Never Broke Again· Lil Durk