mgk, formerly known as Machine Gun Kelly and born as Colson Baker, defies easy categorization. He is a chameleon and has done it all: rap, rock, pop-punk, and even gone a little bit country. He is both a beloved icon and a frequent target of criticism. But, who is mgk, really?
But first, a little background…
Born and raised in Cleveland, mgk began performing locally and released his first mixtape in 2006, titled Stamp of Approval. He was dedicated and passionate from the start, which all helped to secure him a local fanbase. He had a few pivotal moments that really helped his career take off, including being the first rapper to win at the Apollo Theater in Harlem (2009) and multiple appearances on MTV2’s “Sucker Free Freestyle” (~2010). His journey to stardom was not an easy one, and he spent years honing his craft before catching the attention of industry heavyweights like his first label, Bad Boy Records/Interscope Records. His debut studio album, Lace Up, was released in 2012 and marked his entry into the mainstream.
Is mgk really the enigma that the internet makes him out to be?
A lesser-known track, his feature in Iann Dior’s “Thought It Was,” attempted to show us what lies beneath:
I'm by myself, in a room with a million faces. I can't find home, and I've been to a million places. All I've ever known was the black hole that I call my soul.
Then, with “Don’t Let Me Go,” he vulnerably displayed his bleeding heart:
Lately, my thoughts eating me alive. Laid in the bed, thinkin maybe the hate’ll finally go away if I’m not alive. Wish I didn’t listen, just like I wish they would understand me one time…
Searchin' for someone to tell me who I really am, I don't know when I look in the mirror. Constantly dreadin' the day, That the audience might not be screaming for me anymore. The feeling of dying alone, And not leaving anything behind is my biggest fear.
But was anyone really listening?
“More Than Life” (feat glaive) even goes so far as to beg the question:
What's the point of living? I heard death is easier.
He clearly displays his soul for everyone to see and hear, but it seems that people only hear what they want to hear. It’s truly heartbreaking to watch someone be so vulnerable, yet remain so misunderstood.
Whether you love him or hate him, one thing’s for sure: mgk is a force to be reckoned with. As he keeps changing and growing, he’s sure to stir up even more drama and remain as one of the most talked-about artists of our time. While everyone seems to have their own opinion on his sound, fashion, and even his private life, it’s impossible to not have anything but respect for his craft. In a world that’s quick to judge and slow to listen, mgk proudly keeps his heart on his sleeve and doesn’t care what anyone thinks. Whether you’re rooting for him or simply shaking your head, one thing’s for sure: you’re still watching.
mgk’s latest release, “Your Name Forever”
