Lexa Gates, an emerging name in American music, keeps parts of her personal life private, especially details about her father. Although Lexa rarely discusses her dad, her mother plays an instrumental role in her musical journey, shaping her path with unwavering support and love for music. Growing up in Astoria,
Queens, New York, Lexa’s childhood was steeped in music and shaped by her Puerto Rican heritage, experiences that have greatly influenced her unique sound and storytelling.
This article delves into Lexa Gates’ story, her musical inspirations, and her journey, exploring the family influences that have shaped her life and career.
Lexa Gates’ Early Life and Family Background
Born on April 8, 2001, in Astoria, Queens, Lexa Gates grew up in a musically rich environment. Her mother, who raised her and her younger sister as a single parent, once dreamed of a singing career.
However, the responsibilities of raising her children alone meant she put aside her own ambitions. Lexa’s mother prioritized providing her children with a solid foundation, often encouraging them to embrace music as a creative outlet. Although Lexa chooses not to discuss her father publicly, her mother’s influence shines through as a central figure in her life.
Lexa recalls that her mother would play music from iconic artists like Wu-Tang Clan, Eminem, and Aaliyah—music that greatly influenced Lexa’s tastes and set the stage for her journey in music. This early exposure to hip-hop, R&B, and pop helped shape her current sound, evident in tracks like “If I Die, I Die” and “Selfish.”
Early Musical Journey: Learning and Exploring
Lexa’s musical journey began around age nine when her mother purchased a keyboard and encouraged Lexa to take vocal lessons. They would sing together, forming a shared experience that deepened Lexa’s connection to music. Despite financial challenges, Lexa’s mother invested in Lexa’s training, hiring a Guatemalan piano teacher who introduced Lexa to music basics. The experience left a lasting impression, sparking Lexa’s love for performing and songwriting.
By the time she was 14, Lexa felt out of place in traditional school settings, leading her to leave high school. Although this decision stemmed from a combination of personal struggles and dissatisfaction with the academic environment, Lexa demonstrated resilience, later earning her GED and dedicating herself to her music career.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Her Artistic Vision
Growing up in Queens, Lexa faced unique challenges. The city’s vibrant culture and her family’s strength were major influences on her music. The urban landscape of Astoria introduced her to diverse musical styles and personalities, which she absorbed and channeled into her work. Artists like Austin Babbit and Father Steve, known for their colorful and true-to-self styles, inspired Lexa’s creativity, motivating her to stay authentic in her artistry.
Lexa’s mother and her Puerto Rican heritage remain integral to her identity. While she doesn’t frequently listen to Latin music, her background subtly influences her artistic expressions. Lexa has often expressed gratitude for her mother’s support and encouragement, which helped her stay grounded and focused amid various challenges.
Breakthrough in Music: From SoundCloud to Viral Fame
Lexa began sharing her music on SoundCloud in 2019, initially recording tracks in her basement with DIY production techniques. Her introspective lyrics quickly resonated with listeners, helping her build a following. Lexa’s big break came in 2023 with her single “Angel,” which went viral after a TikTok influencer shared a clip of the track. This unexpected exposure led to sold-out shows in Brooklyn, London, and Los Angeles, as well as appearances at prominent music festivals like “The Great Escape.”
Her 2022 album, Universe Wrapped in Flesh, marked a significant milestone in her career. The album explored themes of resilience, growth, and self-discovery, with emotionally charged tracks like “Provider” and “I Just Can’t Be Alone.” Each song on the album felt deeply personal, as Lexa used her music as a journal to share her life experiences, from family dynamics to personal struggles and romantic relationships.
Musical Style and Influences: A Blend of R&B, Rap, and Storytelling
Lexa’s music is characterized by a unique mix of R&B, rap, and spoken word. Her vocal style transitions seamlessly between soft, introspective verses and powerful, emotionally charged choruses.
This blend of “dreamy” and “gangster” elements creates a sound that is both intimate and raw, drawing listeners into her world. Influences like Wu-Tang Clan and Eminem are evident in her work, but Lexa adds her twist, infusing her songs with elements of storytelling and spoken word.
Her biggest hit, “Angel,” was inspired by Mac Miller’s The Divine Feminine and Westside Gunn’s “Whoopy.” Unlike typical love songs, “Angel” captures the complex emotions of longing and admiration without romanticizing them. Lexa’s lyrics often tackle themes of self-worth, relationships, and identity, with a refreshing honesty that appeals to fans seeking authentic voices in music.
The Role of Family in Her Music Career
Family remains a significant part of Lexa’s journey. Her mother and sister have supported her through her career, and Lexa frequently includes her sister in her music videos. This close-knit family dynamic provides Lexa with a strong foundation, helping her remain true to herself amid the pressures of fame. Lexa’s sister even participated in the recent filming of “Rotten to the Core,” her latest music video, which Lexa also edited herself.
For Lexa, music is a deeply personal medium. Each song represents a specific moment or emotion, creating an intimate connection with listeners. Her creative process involves embracing her life experiences and translating them into raw, honest lyrics that resonate with fans worldwide.
Looking Ahead: Lexa’s Goals and Vision for the Future
Lexa Gates is currently working on a new album, with plans to continue touring and collaborating with other artists. As her popularity grows, she remains grounded, focusing on her artistry and personal growth. Lexa often emphasizes her desire to give back to her family, especially her mother, whose sacrifices made her career possible. Her ultimate dream is to buy her mother a house, mirroring the achievements of other successful artists.
Through her music, Lexa aims to break boundaries and explore new themes. Her unique voice and unfiltered storytelling set her apart in a highly competitive industry, and she continues to inspire fans with her dedication to authenticity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lexa Gates
1. Who is Lexa Gates’ dad?
Lexa Gates has not shared information about her father publicly. She keeps details about her father private, focusing instead on her mother’s influence in her life and career.
2. How did Lexa Gates start her music career?
Lexa began her career by uploading music to SoundCloud in 2019. Her introspective lyrics and DIY production style resonated with listeners, quickly building a fan base. Her 2023 single “Angel” went viral, launching her into mainstream success.
3. What genre of music does Lexa Gates make?
Lexa’s music blends elements of R&B, rap, and spoken word. Her style is a mix of “dreamy” and “gangster,” with influences from hip-hop, pop, and introspective storytelling.
4. How does Lexa Gates’ family influence her music?
Lexa’s mother is a central figure in her life and musical journey. Growing up, her mother exposed her to music and encouraged her to pursue her passion. Lexa’s sister is also involved in her career, frequently appearing in her music videos.
5. What are Lexa Gates’ future plans?
Lexa is currently working on a new album and plans to continue touring and collaborating with other artists. She aims to buy her mother a house and remain focused on creating authentic, relatable music.
Lexa Gates’ journey reflects the resilience and determination that define her as an artist. Her music offers a glimpse into her life, drawing from her family’s influence, urban experiences, and personal struggles. With each release, Lexa continues to captivate audiences, making her one of the most promising voices in contemporary music.