In June 2022, rapper Kevin Gates sparked dating speculations when he live-streamed a dinner date with celebrity stylist and influencer Jojo Zarur. A subsequent song and dating rumors brought his marriage into question.
In March 2022, Kevin Gates posted a "cryptic" message on X (formerly Twitter). The rapper appeared to be reflecting on past relationships, as he noted that sometimes people miss their exes, but they're "in the past for a reason."
Among these reasons, he listed arguments, feeling drained of energy, being unable to realize goals, and missing out on lucrative financial opportunities. Kevin concluded his message by encouraging his followers to forget about former flames and "#CarryOn."
Kevin Gates performs in support of his Big Lyfe Tour at Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre on September 15, 2022, in Sterling Heights, Michigan. | Source: Getty Images
Kevin Gates and Jojo Zarur in New York City
Jojo Zarur and Kevin Gates backstage during Lil Baby & Friends Concert at Mississippi Coast Coliseum on June 4, 2022 in Biloxi, Mississippi. | Source: Getty Images
Their public outing led many to believe they were romantically involved, as one person wrote, "I know damn well Kevin Gates ain't cheating on me with Jojo Zarur!!" while another said, "Kevin Gates popping out with Jojo Zarur is just not doing it for me lol….like cmon now man."
Kevin addressed the rumors during an interview the following month. When asked if he and Jojo were dating, he responded, "That's my best friend; I been knowing her forever. (sic)" Kevin clarified that he had never asked Jojo to be his girlfriend and added that no matter what he did, she would always be a part of his life.
Jojo Zarur's Appearance in Kevin Gates' Music Video Fueled Speculations
Soon after his outing with Jojo, Kevin released the song "Super General (Freestyle)" and its music video, in which Jojo (also a reality TV star) makes a cameo. Her appearance further intensified the dating rumors at the time but, more so, the gossip about Kevin and Dreka's separation.
"Took the blame in interviews and made it look like I was trippin' // Made the "Dreka" song, lied to the world while tryna protec' her image // Tell me you love me, I say it back, back in my mind, I'm indifferent," Kevin wrote in "Super General (Freestyle)."
Dreka never commented on the lyrics in the song. Several months following its release, she and Kevin were seen celebrating New Year's Eve together. In February 2023, Dreka starred in her husband's music video for his song "Breakfast." That June, they visited the House of BET together.
Dreka Gates and Kevin Gates speak onstage during the 106 & Park segment at House of BET - Day 3 at Goya Studios on June 24, 2023, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Kevin Gates and Dreka Gates Celebrated Eight Years of Marriage in 2023
Kevin and Dreka, a health enthusiast like her brother-in-law, Brandon Gilyard, tied the knot in October 2015. They rarely speak about their relationship, but Dreka, whose mother-in-law was an English teacher, once shared a heartwarming tribute on their fifth wedding anniversary.
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