MGK Reacts to Being ‘Hated for No Reason.’ Why It Doesn’t Bother Him — and What He’d Tell the Haters (Exclusive)

MGK Opens Up About Dealing with Haters and the Release of His New Album

Colson Baker, known by his stage name MGK (Machine Gun Kelly), is set to release his latest album, ‘Lost Americana,’ on August 8th. The Grammy-nominated artist recently shared his thoughts on handling online hate and what he would say to his critics in an exclusive interview.

During a conversation about his upcoming album in a New York City hotel lobby, MGK reflected on his roots in Cleveland and the respect shared among those from his hometown. Over his nearly two-decade-long music career, MGK has transitioned from a local hero to a prominent figure in the rap and rock scenes, gaining a dedicated fan base and amassing over 9 million followers on Instagram.

Despite his success, MGK has faced criticism for his unique blend of genres and raw, emotional lyrics. He acknowledges being “hated for no reason” and being targeted for expressing himself authentically through his music and fashion choices, stepping outside societal norms without reservation.

MGK’s ability to brush off negative criticism has grown as he gears up for the release of ‘Lost Americana.’ Addressing the prevalent hate culture surrounding him, he remarks, “The hate for me has become so pop culture that it’s almost like that’s automatically what you say to fit in.” He sees the criticism as superficial and lacking depth, focusing on his role as an entertainer and the importance of not taking it too seriously.

Notably, MGK highlights a discrepancy in the reception of his work, observing that his most enthusiastic supporters often come from marginalized groups, while most of the animosity towards him stems from men projecting their insecurities onto him. He challenges traditional notions of masculinity, advocating for freedom of expression and emotional vulnerability.

MGK’s new album, ‘Lost Americana,’ represents a departure from his previous work, blending pop, punk, and hip-hop influences to explore themes of love, loss, and fame. The album reflects on nostalgia and introspection, offering both upbeat anthems and emotive tracks that delve into deeper subject matter, including his personal experiences.

As MGK prepares to share ‘Lost Americana’ with the world, he remains unapologetically himself, embracing vulnerability as a means to connect with his audience on a deeper level. He aims to show the multifaceted aspects of his identity, including his struggles and triumphs, in the hopes that listeners will connect with the person behind the persona.

In a demonstration of his resilience and artistic growth, MGK invites listeners to discover the man behind the public image, inviting them to explore his journey through music. For more insights into MGK’s creative process and personal evolution, readers can find the full interview in the latest issue of PEOPLE magazine, available on newsstands.

MGK’s journey serves as a testament to staying true to oneself in the face of adversity and remaining authentic in the pursuit of artistic expression. As he continues to push boundaries and challenge stereotypes, his music resonates with audiences worldwide, offering a glimpse into the complexities of his inner world and the transformative power of self-expression.