Machine Gun Kelly

Introduction to Machine Gun Kelly

Colson Baker, professionally known as Machine Gun Kelly (MGK), is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and actor. Born on April 22, 1990, in Houston, Texas, MGK has made a significant impact in the music and entertainment industries with his rapid-fire lyrical style and genre-blending artistry.​

Early Life and Background

MGK's early years were marked by extensive travel due to his parents' work as Christian missionaries. He spent his childhood in various countries, including Egypt, Germany, and Kenya, as well as different U.S. states such as California, Colorado, and Ohio. After his mother left the family when he was nine, MGK and his father settled in Denver, Colorado, before eventually moving to Cleveland, Ohio. It was in Cleveland that MGK attended Shaker Heights High School and began to cultivate his passion for music, drawing inspiration from artists like Ludacris, Eminem, and DMX. 

Musical Career

MGK's music career began with the release of several mixtapes between 2007 and 2010, showcasing his distinctive rapid delivery and raw lyrics. His breakthrough came with the single "Alice in Wonderland," which earned him local acclaim. In 2011, he signed with Bad Boy Records and released his debut studio album, "Lace Up," in 2012. The album featured hits like "Wild Boy" and solidified his presence in the rap scene. MGK continued to evolve artistically, experimenting with blending hip-hop and rock elements. His 2020 album, "Tickets to My Downfall," marked a significant shift towards pop-punk, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200 and receiving critical acclaim for tracks like "Bloody Valentine." ​

Acting Endeavors

In addition to his music career, MGK has pursued acting, appearing in various film and television projects. Notably, he portrayed drummer Tommy Lee in the 2019 biographical film "The Dirt," which chronicles the rise of the rock band Mötley Crüe. His performance was well-received, showcasing his versatility as an entertainer. MGK has also appeared in other films such as "Bird Box" (2018) and "Project Power" (2020), further establishing his presence in Hollywood. ​

Personal Life

MGK's personal life has garnered significant media attention, particularly his relationship with actress Megan Fox. The couple began dating in 2020 after meeting on the set of "Midnight in the Switchgrass." They announced their engagement in January 2022. On March 27, 2025, Fox gave birth to their daughter. Despite ending their romantic relationship in late 2024, MGK and Fox have maintained an amicable co-parenting arrangement. MGK also has a daughter from a previous relationship. 

Recent Developments

In April 2025, MGK addressed public speculation regarding his newborn daughter's name. He clarified that the name "Celestial Seed" was a term of endearment and not the child's actual name, emphasizing that the official name would be shared by the mother when they were ready. ​

Machine Gun Kelly's journey from a globally nomadic childhood to a multifaceted artist in the music and film industries illustrates his adaptability and dedication to his craft. His continuous evolution as an artist and public figure keeps him at the forefront of contemporary entertainment.