Lefty Gunplay has quickly become one of the most talked-about names in West Coast hip-hop. This talented rapper, known for his raw lyrics and authentic storytelling, draws from a tough upbringing to create music that resonates with fans across the globe. What makes him stand out is his journey from prison to the spotlight, including high-profile collaborations and a Grammy win. In this Lefty Gunplay biography and net worth overview, we’ll dive into his life, career highs, and financial success.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Franklin Scott Holladay |
| Nickname / Stage Name | Lefty Gunplay |
| Date of Birth | April 28, 1996 |
| Age | 29 (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Baldwin Park, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Rapper |
| Known For | West Coast hip-hop, feature on Kendrick Lamar’s “TV Off,” Grammy-winning artist |
| Height | 5’9″ (175 cm) (estimated based on public appearances) |
| Family / Spouse | Raised by mother and grandmother; has a son and a daughter; single |
| Education | High school (attended but interrupted by incarceration; no higher education details available) |
| Social Media Followers | Instagram: Approximately 314,000 (as of recent data) |
| Estimated Net Worth | $1 million to $5 million (estimates vary based on public sources) |
Early Life and Background
Lefty Gunplay’s story starts in the working-class neighborhoods of Baldwin Park, California. Born Franklin Scott Holladay, he grew up in a mobile home park with his Guatemalan-Mexican mother and grandmother. His father, a white man from Mississippi, left the family when Lefty was just two years old, moving to Florida to start a new life. This absence left a lasting impact, fueling some of Lefty’s early anger and search for belonging.
Life wasn’t easy in Baldwin Park. The family faced financial struggles, and Lefty often felt embarrassed about their modest home. But he found outlets in sports and music. In high school, he excelled on the varsity teams for football, baseball, and basketball, even scoring 17 touchdowns as a receiver in his senior year. Music caught his attention early too. In elementary school, he won a talent show by performing songs from Kanye West and 50 Cent, sparking a love for rap that would later define his path.
By age 13, though, Lefty got involved in gang life, seeking the guidance he lacked at home. This led to trouble. At 14, he was arrested for an alleged shooting, spending about three years in juvenile detention centers like Camp Kilpatrick and Los Padrinos. The experience was brutal, filled with fights and survival lessons. After a brief release at 17, he faced more arrests, including one for possession that derailed a potential Marine Corps enlistment. At 18, he was sentenced to 13 years for discharging a firearm at a party, serving nine years in facilities like Pelican Bay and Corcoran. Prison time shaped him, but it also honed his rap skills. He wrote lyrics in secret, memorizing them and drawing inspiration from artists like Tupac.
Career Journey and Major Achievements
Lefty Gunplay’s career exploded after his release in November 2023. Fresh out of prison at 27, he dove into music with a determination born from years of dreaming about it behind bars. His stage name combines “Lefty,” a nickname from gang units, and “Gunplay,” inspired by a prison friend.
Breaking Into the Scene
He started independently, dropping singles like “Certified Stepper” and “Spin the Block” in late 2023. These tracks caught fire in the L.A. underground, showcasing his aggressive flow and street authenticity. By December, he signed with OTR Records, an independent label that felt like family. They invested in him, helping turn his raw talent into polished projects.
Debut and Rapid Releases
In February 2024, Lefty released his first album, Rookie of the Year. Standouts like “Blvd Babies,” rapped over Ice Cube’s “Why We Thugs” beat, racked up over a million Spotify streams. He didn’t slow down, dropping Famous Gangbanger, PreSeason, and Most Valuable Gangbanger later that year. In 2025, he hosted Can’t Get Right with JasonMartin and released Ghetto Heisman, featuring big names like RJMrLA, Alemán, Waka Flocka Flame, Hit-Boy, and 03 Greedo.
High-Profile Collaborations and Recognition
A breakthrough came in November 2024 with a feature on Kendrick Lamar’s “TV Off” from the album GNX. The track hit No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, boosting Lefty’s streams by 84%. He recorded more with Kendrick, hinting at a deluxe GNX. This led to his biggest honor: winning Best Rap Song at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards in 2026 for “TV Off.” Lefty has also collabed with OhGeesy, Snoop Dogg, Jeezy, and others, bridging Latino and Black rap scenes in L.A.
Beyond music, he’s venturing into acting. He’s set to star in a Hulu film directed by Richard Cabral, alongside Jon Bernthal, Jenna Ortega, and RJMrLA. He takes acting classes and sees it as a way to tell his story on screen.
His work ethic shines through. From sold-out shows to charging $10,000 for performances and $7,000 for features, Lefty has built a brand around authenticity. He’s inspired by Nipsey Hussle, YG, and the Stinc Team, adapting to L.A.’s evolving rap landscape.
Personal Life and Relationships
Lefty Gunplay keeps his personal world private, but he’s open about the challenges that shaped him. He’s single, with no public spouse. He has two children: an older son from before prison and a one-year-old daughter. Fatherhood is a mixed bag. He missed much of his son’s early life due to incarceration, and rebuilding that bond has been tough. His ex limits contact, but Lefty is committed to being present. With his daughter, he’s more hands-on, vowing not to repeat his father’s absence. He wants her to avoid the gangster life and find happiness with a good partner, regardless of background.
Lifestyle-wise, Lefty has moved to Downtown L.A. for safety, escaping old enemies and PTSD from losing close friends. He’s covered in tattoos, many done in prison, including his body and face. They tell his story, from gang affiliations to personal milestones. Hobbies include investing in stocks (he’s been in Google since 2010) and planning businesses like a nail salon. Despite his past, he focuses on positivity, family support, and giving back. He’s bought cars and appliances for his mom and grandma, honoring their role in his upbringing.
Net Worth and Income Breakdown
Lefty Gunplay’s net worth is estimated between $1 million and $5 million as of 2026, based on public data from sources like interviews and industry reports. These figures are approximations, as celebrities’ finances aren’t always transparent. He self-reports being a millionaire, with earnings surpassing $1 million from his rapid rise.
His wealth comes from multiple streams. Music is the core: album sales, streaming (over 400,000 monthly Spotify listeners), and live shows bring in steady income. Features and collaborations, especially with stars like Kendrick Lamar, add up quickly. Brand deals and merchandise, like his Pro Club partnership, contribute too. He’s smart with investments, holding stocks that yield dividends (around $50,000 yearly). Upcoming acting gigs, including the Hulu film, could boost this further. There are rumors of label bidding wars, with offers up to $13 million for multi-album deals.
Lefty built this fortune from scratch. Released with nothing, he turned prison-honed lyrics into hits. Independent deals with OTR and potential majors like Alamo or Columbia show his business savvy. While estimates vary—some sources peg it at $3-5 million considering projections—his story highlights resilience over quick riches.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Lefty’s mixed heritage (Guatemalan-Mexican mom, white dad) helps him connect across cultures, making him a bridge in L.A. rap.
- He once nearly joined the Marines but got re-arrested during a home visit.
- In prison, he was neighbors with Charles Manson and witnessed the aftermath of actor Lloyd Avery II’s murder.
- His first rap was written in third grade, and kids copied it at school.
- He’s planning a biopic, possibly for Netflix, with big names like Liam Neeson attached.
- Lefty owns luxury cars, including a Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Cadillac, symbols of his success.
Influence and Legacy
Lefty Gunplay matters because he represents hope for those from tough backgrounds. His music doesn’t glorify the streets; it tells real stories of struggle and triumph. As one of the hottest Latino rappers in L.A., he’s inspiring a new generation, showing that prison time doesn’t define you. His Grammy win and Kendrick feature prove talent can break barriers. Fans see him as authentic—a rare voice uniting South L.A. communities and pushing West Coast hip-hop forward. His legacy? Proving “anything is possible” with hard work and belief.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lefty Gunplay’s net worth?
Estimates range from $1 million to $5 million in 2026, drawn from music, investments, and deals. These are based on public info and may vary.
How did Lefty Gunplay become famous?
He rose quickly after prison release in 2023 with viral singles like “Certified Stepper.” Signing with OTR and featuring on Kendrick Lamar’s “TV Off” skyrocketed his fame.
What are Lefty Gunplay’s biggest achievements?
Winning a Grammy for “TV Off,” releasing six albums in two years, and collaborations with Kendrick, Snoop Dogg, and others. His rapid streams and sold-out shows stand out.
Where is Lefty Gunplay now?
He’s active in music and acting, living in Downtown L.A., focusing on family and new projects like Ghetto Heisman and a Hulu film.
Does Lefty Gunplay have kids?
Yes, he has a son and a young daughter. He’s working to be a better father despite past challenges.
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