How do you feel about being considered for XXL’s 2014 freshman class?

Kevin Gates: I was taken back. I’m beyond blessed. If I make the cover, that would be even more of a blessing. That means my hard work and my effort is paying off. If they do pick me to be on the cover, that’ll be the first of many to come. Get used to seeing Kevin Gates.

Since dropping By Any Means, what is next?

Kevin Gates: What’s meant to be is meant to be and all of my mixtapes are full projects. They’re complete bodies of work, 12 original tracks and I put the same effort into those songs that we consider mixtapes that I put into anything. It won’t be any more pressure like ‘oh I’m doing an album.’ No I’m making music. If whatever I make fits the album it fits it, if not we’ll put it with the other collection and assortment of songs. I have Techno songs right now that I’ve done but will they resonate with my following who knows yet. Is it time for it, who knows.

Lastly, how did you get involved with the Achievement Academy?

Kevin Gates: My good friend Lamont started it and we mentor the young people about choices and decision-making. I had no one instructing me, imputing knowledge and wisdom at a young age. It was just individuals that only knew what they knew. I’m not trying to be anyone’s father figure I just – life is all about the choices and the decisions that we make.