MGK Real Name Machine Gun Kelly (MGK) has evolved from a teenage rapper in Cleveland to one of the most versatile figures in modern music and film. Known for his dynamic blend of hip-hop and pop-punk, MGK journey is anything but conventional.
This article covers everything you need to know about his real name, age, height, net worth, and his career milestones both in music and film. So, let’s dive deep into the life of Colson Baker.
MGK Real Name
MGK real name is Colson Baker. He adopted the stage name “Machine Gun Kelly” as a tribute to the infamous gangster George “Machine Gun” Kelly.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Colson Baker |
| Stage Name | Machine Gun Kelly (MGK) |
| Date of Birth | April 22, 1990 |
| Age (as of 2024) | 34 years |
| Place of Birth | Houston, Texas, USA |
| Height | 6 feet 4 inches (193 cm) |
| Net Worth (2024) | Approximately $25 million |
| Genres | Hip-hop, Pop-punk |
| Record Label | Bad Boy Records (since 2011) |
MGK Early Life and Background
Real Name: Colson Baker
While Machine Gun Kelly is the name most fans recognize, the artist was born as Colson Baker on April 22, 1990, in Houston, Texas. The 34-year-old artist’s rise to fame has been marked by both hardship and triumph, which has shaped his eclectic style.
Nomadic Childhood
Growing up, Colson had a tough childhood. His father was a traveling man, and this resulted in Colson moving around frequently.
He spent time living in various places, including Egypt, Denver, and eventually Cleveland. This nomadic lifestyle didn’t offer much stability, but it did help cultivate his creativity and adaptability.
By the time Colson was 9, his family’s life took a dark turn when his father was involved in a murder trial. He was acquitted of the charges, but the traumatic event had a lasting impact on Colson.
His father’s past shaped a lot of his early experiences, and he later revealed in interviews how this period of his life fueled many of his artistic endeavors.
Passion for Music
Despite the challenges, Colson developed a passion for music during his teenage years. His love for hip-hop was clear early on, and he began rapping while still in high school.
He quickly gained a reputation for his rapid-fire lyrical style, which would later become a signature feature of his music.
MGK Rise to Music Fame
From Mixtapes to Mainstream Music
MGK journey into the music industry started in the early 2000s. In 2006, he released his first mixtape, “Stamp of Approval”, which was a raw showcase of his talents.
But it wasn’t until he signed with Bad Boy Records in 2011 that MGK started to make a name for himself. His debut studio album, “Lace Up” (2012), catapulted him into the limelight.
Music Career Milestones
MGK music is known for its genre-blending nature, mixing hip-hop with elements of pop-punk, and it’s been praised for its honesty and raw energy.
His transition from a purely rap artist to one who embraced pop-punk was a significant career shift. This transition reached its peak with his 2020 album, “Tickets to My Downfall”, which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200.
It marked MGK official entrance into the pop-punk scene, a genre that had been dominated by bands like Blink-182 and Green Day.
Popular Albums
| Album Title | Release Year | Genre | Notable Songs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lace Up | 2012 | Hip-hop | “Wild Boy”, “Invincible” |
| General Admission | 2015 | Hip-hop, Rap Rock | “Till I Die”, “Bad Things” |
| Bloom | 2017 | Hip-hop, Alternative Rock | “At My Best”, “Go For Broke” |
| Hotel Diablo | 2019 | Hip-hop, Emo Rap | “I Think I’m OKAY”, “Glass House” |
| Tickets to My Downfall | 2020 | Pop-punk, Punk Rock | “Bloody Valentine”, “My Ex’s Best Friend” |
| Mainstream Sellout | 2022 | Pop-punk, Alternative Rock | “Papercuts”, “Emo Girl” |
Popular Songs
MGK career includes numerous hits that have topped charts. Some of his most popular tracks include:
- “Wild Boy”
- “Bad Things”
- “Rap Devil”
- “Bloody Valentine”
These tracks helped him build a loyal fan base and secured his place in both hip-hop and rock music scenes. His song “Rap Devil” is particularly significant as it was his response to Eminem’s diss track “Not Alike,” cementing MGK presence in the rap game.
The Shift to Pop-Punk: MGK Transformation
The most significant evolution in MGK music career came with his decision to embrace pop-punk.
His pop-punk debut “Tickets to My Downfall” was a huge commercial success, and it reflected his desire to break away from traditional rap and try something new.
Collaborating with legendary Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker gave the album a unique edge and successfully resonated with both his rap fans and a new pop-punk audience.
MGK genre-blending music has since become one of his trademarks. Fans have embraced his transition, and he’s carved out a niche for himself as one of the leading artists in the pop-punk revival.
MGK Acting Career: From Musician to Hollywood Star
MGK versatility doesn’t end with music. He’s also carved a path in Hollywood, showcasing his acting talents. His film career started with supporting roles, but over time, he has built a solid presence in the acting world.
Notable Film Roles
- “Beyond the Lights” (2014) – This film, which focused on a young, struggling artist, marked MGK first major acting role.
- “Nerve” (2016) – A thriller that starred Emma Roberts and James Franco. MGK role was a small but notable step in his acting career.
- “Bird Box” (2018) – He had a minor role in this Netflix thriller, starring Sandra Bullock.
- “The Dirt” (2019) – Perhaps his most notable film role, MGK portrayed Tommy Lee, the drummer of the iconic rock band Mötley Crüe. His performance in The Dirt was widely praised and solidified his transition into Hollywood.
The Tommy Lee Portrayal
MGK role as Tommy Lee in The Dirt showcased his ability to dive deep into complex characters. It was a bold performance, and his portrayal of the notorious drummer earned him recognition outside of the music world.
The film chronicled the rise of Mötley Crüe and gave MGK the opportunity to not only act but also connect with the rock legacy he’d been embracing through his music.
Personal Life of MGK: Family and Relationships
Family Background
MGK upbringing wasn’t the easiest. Raised in a single-parent household, his mother raised him with limited resources.
His father’s tumultuous past and the murder trial created an unstable environment, but Colson still managed to find his passion for music.
In recent years, MGK has spoken openly about his traumatic family history, revealing how it shaped him into the person he is today.
The trauma from his father’s trial and his early years on the move greatly influenced the emotional depth of his music and personal outlook on life.
Relationships
MGK personal life has also been the subject of public fascination, especially his high-profile relationship with actress Megan Fox.
The couple began dating in 2020 and announced their engagement in early 2022. MGK has openly spoken about how Megan has played a significant role in his life and career. Their bond is often reflected in his music, particularly in his love songs like “Bloody Valentine”.
Recent Developments in MGK Career
Musical Evolution and New Releases
In 2025, MGK continued to evolve musically, with new releases and collaborations. His latest album “Mainstream Sellout” (2022) marked another shift in his career, keeping his fans on their toes as he experimented with different styles.
Public Appearances
As a public figure, MGK stays active on social media, regularly engaging with his fanbase. He’s become known for his dynamic performances on stage, often blending music and personal storytelling.
Mental Health Advocacy
In interviews, MGK has been open about his struggles with mental health. His transparency has made him a relatable figure for many fans, and he has continued to use his platform to advocate for mental health awareness.
MGK Net Worth: How Much Is Colson Baker Worth?
MGK net worth as of 2025 is estimated to be approximately $25 million. His wealth is largely generated from his music career, acting roles, and business ventures. Here’s a breakdown of how he accumulates his wealth:
| Source | Revenue |
|---|---|
| Music Sales | Significant revenue from album and single sales |
| Acting Roles | Earnings from film and TV projects |
| Touring and Concerts | Profits from live performances and tours |
| Business Ventures | Income from merchandise, clothing lines, and endorsements |
Real Estate and Investments
Along with his growing fortune, MGK has invested in real estate. He owns multiple properties in Los Angeles and elsewhere, contributing to his overall wealth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sure! Here’s the modified version with headings changed to H3 and each question followed by a one-line answer:
What’s Machine Gun Kelly’s Real Name?
Machine Gun Kelly’s real name is Colson Baker.
MGK Ethnicity
MGK is of mixed ethnicity, with his father being of European descent and his mother being of African-American and European descent.
How Old Is MGK?
As of 2025, MGK is 35 years old.
Colson Baker Net Worth
Colson Baker (MGK) has an estimated net worth of $25 million.
MGK Worth
MGK worth, as of 2025, is approximately $25 million.
Conclusion
From his early days in Cleveland to becoming a mainstream star in music and film, Machine Gun Kelly has proven that versatility and hard work lead to success.
He’s faced challenges that would break many others, but his passion for music, acting, and personal growth has driven him forward.
As of 2025, Colson Baker is still one of the most exciting and unpredictable artists in the entertainment industry. Whether through his genre-blending music, dynamic performances, or upcoming acting roles, MGK is here to stay. His story continues to inspire, and fans eagerly await what’s next for this multi-talented star.