mgk (Machine Gun Kelly)

OLDIES.com Description

Colson Baker, born April 22, 1990, and known professionally as Machine Gun Kelly (MGK), is an influential American artist who made significant strides in both the music and acting realms. Hailing from Cleveland, Ohio, MGK has been celebrated for his unique ability to bridge the worlds of alternative rock and hip hop, creating a distinct sound that resonates with a diverse audience.

MGK's musical journey began with the release of four mixtapes between 2007 and 2010, showcasing his raw talent and earning him a spot in the music industry. His breakthrough came when he signed with Puff Daddy's Bad Boy Records, an imprint of Interscope Records. His debut studio album, "Lace Up," released in 2012, peaked at number four on the US Billboard 200 and was propelled by the hit single "Wild Boy" featuring Waka Flocka Flame. This track not only marked MGK's first entry on the Billboard Hot 100 but also achieved triple platinum certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), cementing his status in the music world.

Following the success of his debut, MGK continued to rise with his subsequent albums, "General Admission" (2015) and "Bloom" (2017), both of which were met with critical acclaim and commercial success. "Bloom" was particularly notable for the single "Bad Things," a collaboration with Camila Cabello that peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100. MGK's fourth album, "Hotel Diablo" (2019), delved deeper into rap rock, further showcasing his versatility as an artist.

In 2020, MGK took a bold step with his fifth album, "Tickets to My Downfall," which marked a complete shift to a pop-punk sound, produced by Blink-182's drummer Travis Barker. This album not only debuted atop the Billboard 200 but also stood out as the year's only rock album to achieve this feat. It featured the hit "My Ex's Best Friend" with blackbear, which climbed into the top 20 of the Billboard Hot 100. His subsequent album, "Mainstream Sellout" (2022), continued his commercial success, although it received mixed reviews from critics.

Beyond music, MGK has also carved out a niche for himself in acting. He had his first starring role in the romantic drama "Beyond the Lights" (2014) and has since appeared in a variety of films including the techno-thriller "Nerve" (2016), the horror "Bird Box" (2018), and the comedy "Big Time Adolescence" (2019). He notably portrayed Tommy Lee in the biopic "The Dirt" (2019), further demonstrating his range and talent as an actor.

In February 2024, in a move reflecting his evolution as an artist and individual, MGK officially changed his name to "mgk." This change underscores a new phase in his career, signifying a deeper personal and artistic transformation. Whether through his music or his acting, "mgk" continues to push the boundaries of creativity, making a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.

Genres

Action & Adventure Movies Pop / Rock Sci-Fi / Fantasy Movies Urban

Tags

hip-hop

rap

pop punk

cleveland

mgk

hip hop

seen live

machine gun kelly

Links

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