
Cristian Michael Locklear, known by his stage name YLA Gunna, is a 25-year-old artist from North Carolina, born on April 17, 2000. Standing 5’9”, YLA Gunna is emerging as one of the most promising young voices to come out of the Carolinas, combining authenticity, confidence, and lyrical precision to carve his own lane in modern hip-hop.
Representing the energy and resilience of the South, YLA Gunna’s music reflects a story of ambition and evolution. His sound balances sharp wordplay with melodic flow — drawing from real-life experiences that shaped him into the artist he is today. Every verse carries intention, and every track feels like a reflection of both his grind and his growth.
As part of a new generation of independent talent, YLA Gunna is focused on building more than just music — he’s crafting a movement. His style merges the raw Southern essence of North Carolina’s rap scene with the global polish of today’s sound, proving that true artistry is about connection and consistency.
What separates YLA Gunna from the crowd is his vision. He’s not chasing trends — he’s setting them. His goal is to inspire others to rise above circumstances, stay authentic, and build their legacy with discipline and heart.
With a growing presence across streaming platforms and a loyal audience backing his every move, YLA Gunna is positioning himself as one of North Carolina’s next breakout stars.
From local stages to global playlists, his message is clear — YLA Gunna isn’t just here to rap; he’s here to represent.



