Machine Gun Kelly

Machine Gun Kelly, born Colson Baker, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and actor who has successfully reinvented himself across multiple genres throughout his career. Born in Houston, Texas, he moved frequently during his childhood, living in places including Egypt, Germany, and various cities across the United States before settling in Cleveland, Ohio. His stage name was inspired by notorious criminal George “Machine Gun Kelly” Barnes, and his rapid-fire rapping style earned him a devoted fanbase in the underground hip-hop scene.

MGK’s debut album “Lace Up” (2012) on Bad Boy and Interscope Records established him in the mainstream hip-hop world, featuring the hit single “Wild Boy” with Waka Flocka Flame. He continued releasing successful rap albums throughout the mid-2010s, building a reputation as a fierce lyricist and energetic performer. His public feud with Eminem in 2018, which produced the diss tracks “Rap Devil” and “Killshot,” brought him enormous attention and cemented his place in hip-hop discourse.

In 2020, MGK made a dramatic pivot to pop-punk with the album “Tickets to My Downfall,” produced by Travis Barker. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and spawned the hit single “Bloody Valentine.” This genre shift proved massively successful, and the follow-up “Mainstream Sellout” (2022) also debuted at number one. His relationship with actress Megan Fox, which began in 2020, kept him in the tabloid spotlight and increased his cultural visibility.

Beyond music, MGK has built a diverse portfolio of income streams. He has appeared in numerous films, including “Bird Box” (2018), “The Dirt” (2019), where he portrayed Tommy Lee, and “Good Mourning” (2022), which he co-directed. He launched his own nail polish brand, UN/DN LAQR, and his own coffee brand. His energetic live shows continue to draw massive crowds on tour, contributing significantly to his estimated $25 million net worth.