Machine Gun Kelly, born Colson Baker on April 22, 1990, in Houston, Texas, is an American musician and actor renowned for his genre-blending artistry and dynamic persona. Raised in Cleveland, Ohio, MGK’s early life was marked by instability; his mother left when he was nine, leading to a strained upbringing that would later influence his music. He began his musical journey in his teens, releasing a series of mixtapes between 2007 and 2010, which garnered him a dedicated local following. In 2011, he signed with Bad Boy and Interscope Records, leading to the release of his debut studio album, Lace Up (2012), featuring the hit single “Wild Boy” with Waka Flocka Flame. Subsequent albums like General Admission (2015) and Bloom (2017) solidified his presence in the hip-hop scene, with tracks like “Bad Things” featuring Camila Cabello achieving commercial success.
MGK’s fourth album, Hotel Diablo (2019), showcased a darker, more introspective side, delving into themes of addiction and personal demons. In a bold move, he transitioned to a pop-punk sound with his fifth album, Tickets to My Downfall (2020), produced by Blink-182’s Travis Barker. This genre shift was well-received, with the album debuting at number one on the Billboard 200, marking his first chart-topping release. He continued this trajectory with Mainstream Sellout (2022), further cementing his versatility as an artist.
Beyond music, MGK has pursued acting, appearing in films like Nerve (2016), Bird Box (2018), and portraying Tommy Lee in The Dirt (2019). In 2022, he co-directed and starred in the stoner comedy Good Mourning alongside Mod Sun. His personal life has also been in the spotlight, notably his relationship with actress Megan Fox, which began in 2020. The couple got engaged in January 2022 but ended their engagement in December 2024. Despite their split, they welcomed a daughter in March 2025 and are committed to co-parenting.
MGK is also a father to his older daughter, Casie Colson Baker, from a previous relationship. His openness about personal struggles, including his relationship with his late father and his journey toward sobriety, has resonated with fans. In 2024, he released the emotionally charged single “Don’t Let Me Go,” addressing themes of loss and vulnerability. MGK’s evolution from a troubled youth to a multifaceted artist underscores his resilience and adaptability in the ever-changing landscape of the entertainment industry.
