Machine Gun Kelly has carved out one of the most unpredictable yet compelling careers in modern music. From his explosive rap beginnings in Cleveland to his pop-punk renaissance that dominated alternative charts, MGK’s discography represents a fearless artist unafraid to reinvent himself. His catalog spans aggressive hip-hop anthems, vulnerable confessionals, and stadium-ready rock tracks that channel early 2000s energy with contemporary production polish. Whether you’re drawn to his rapid-fire lyrical delivery or his Travis Barker-produced guitar work, these twenty tracks showcase an artist who’s constantly evolved while maintaining his rebellious core. The production quality across his work—from the gritty street recordings to the polished Interscope releases—demonstrates genuine artistic growth, and his willingness to experiment has created some genuinely unforgettable moments in recent music history.
“Till I Die” – Raw Cleveland Energy
This breakout track from 2012’s Lace Up album captures MGK at his hungriest. The production features hard-hitting drums and a menacing bass line that complements his aggressive delivery perfectly. When you listen on quality headphones from our headphone comparison guide, you’ll catch the layered vocal ad-libs and subtle atmospheric elements that give this track its claustrophobic intensity. The song established his reputation as someone who could match technical skill with genuine street credibility, and it remains a fan favorite at live shows where the crowd energy becomes almost overwhelming during the chorus.
“Wild Boy” (feat. Waka Flocka Flame) – Party Anthem Perfection
Few songs capture early 2010s hip-hop energy like “Wild Boy.” The collaboration with Waka Flocka Flame created something explosive—a track that still gets rotation at parties over a decade later. The production by GB Hitz and South Side features those signature trap hi-hats and an absolutely massive 808 bass line that demands proper speaker systems to appreciate fully. MGK’s hook is infectious, and his verse showcases the kind of confident, rebellious attitude that defined his early persona. The mixing balances both artists perfectly, giving each their moment to shine without overpowering the instrumental’s aggressive momentum.
“Bloody Valentine” – Pop-Punk Reinvention
This Travis Barker-produced track from Tickets to My Downfall represented MGK’s complete genre pivot, and it absolutely works. The guitar tones are crisp and perfectly distorted, channeling Blink-182’s best production qualities while maintaining modern clarity. Released in 2020, it peaked at number one on Billboard’s Alternative Airplay chart and introduced MGK to an entirely new audience. The vocal melodies are genuinely catchy, and the bridge section features some impressive dynamic shifts that showcase thoughtful arrangement decisions. In car speakers, this track comes alive with its punchy drums and perfectly compressed guitars that fill every frequency range without creating mud in the mix.
“My Ex’s Best Friend” (feat. Blackbear) – Emo-Pop Excellence
Collaborating with blackbear proved to be a masterstroke on this 2020 single. The song blends alternative rock instrumentation with modern pop sensibilities, creating something that feels both nostalgic and fresh. The production features layered guitars, tight drum programming courtesy of Travis Barker’s live performance, and a bass tone that anchors everything perfectly. MGK and blackbear trade verses effortlessly, and the chemistry is undeniable—their vocal timbres complement each other in ways that enhance both artists’ strengths. The chorus has that immediate earworm quality that made it a streaming powerhouse, and the vocal production includes just enough processing to add polish without sacrificing the raw emotional delivery.
“I Think I’m OKAY” (feat. YUNGBLUD & Travis Barker) – Genre-Blending Breakthrough
Before his full pop-punk transformation, this 2019 collaboration signaled where MGK was headed musically. The track features YUNGBLUD’s chaotic energy, Travis Barker’s unmistakable drumming, and MGK’s melodic rap-rock delivery converging into something genuinely exciting. The production quality is outstanding—each instrument occupies its own space in the mix, from the distorted guitars to the crisp snare hits. The song’s structure builds brilliantly, starting relatively restrained before exploding into a full rock arrangement by the final chorus. Listening through quality earbuds reveals the detailed guitar layering and subtle vocal harmonies that make this track so replayable.
“Rap Devil” – Controversial Brilliance
Whatever your opinion on the Eminem beef, “Rap Devil” showcases MGK’s technical rap abilities at their peak. Released in 2018, the diss track features aggressive production with ominous keys and hard-hitting drums that provide the perfect backdrop for his rapid-fire delivery. The mixing emphasizes his vocal clarity, ensuring every word lands with impact—essential for a diss track where lyrics matter most. The instrumental’s dark atmosphere complements the confrontational lyrics, and the master has enough dynamic range to prevent listening fatigue despite the track’s intensity. It proved MGK could still command respect in hip-hop circles even as he explored other musical directions.
“forget me too” (feat. Halsey) – Emotional Devastation
Halsey’s appearance on this Tickets to My Downfall track elevates it into something special. Her verse adds a devastating perspective that transforms the song from a breakup track into a conversation between two people destroying each other. The production balances pop-punk guitars with modern pop vocal production, and the result sounds massive on any system. The bridge section features some genuinely beautiful melodic interplay between both artists, and the final chorus hits with emotional weight thanks to thoughtful arrangement choices that build intensity throughout the song’s runtime. The guitar tones are aggressive but never harsh, maintaining listenability while preserving the track’s raw energy.
“Lately” (feat. Lil Skies) – Melodic Trap Excellence
This 2018 single showcases MGK’s ability to work within trap production frameworks while maintaining his own identity. Lil Skies brings his signature melodic style, and together they create something that feels both melancholic and confident. The production features atmospheric synths, rolling hi-hats, and a bass line that provides perfect foundation without overwhelming the vocal melodies. The mixing keeps both artists’ vocals upfront, and there’s subtle reverb work that adds space without pushing anything too far back in the mix. It’s the kind of track that works equally well as background music or focused listening, depending on your mood.
“Glass House” (feat. Naomi Wild) – Introspective Depth
From his 2017 album bloom, “Glass House” represents MGK at his most vulnerable. Naomi Wild’s haunting vocals on the chorus create an emotional anchor, while MGK delivers verses that balance braggadocio with genuine self-reflection. The production is relatively sparse compared to his more aggressive tracks, featuring piano-driven melodies and restrained drums that give his lyrics room to breathe. The vocal production is intimate—you can hear the nuances in his delivery that more compressed mixing would destroy. It’s the kind of track that reveals new details with repeated listens, especially when you’re paying attention to the subtle string arrangements and atmospheric textures layered throughout.
“Home” (feat. Ambassadors & Bebe Rexha) – Emotional Anthem
Few MGK tracks capture longing quite like “Home.” This Lace Up highlight features Bebe Rexha and Ambassadors on a soaring chorus that contrasts beautifully with MGK’s grounded verses about maintaining connections while pursuing dreams. The production balances hip-hop drums with melodic guitar work, creating something that defies easy categorization. The emotional weight comes through in every element—from the piano chords to MGK’s delivery, which sounds genuinely heartfelt rather than performed. The master has excellent dynamic range, allowing the quiet moments to breathe before the chorus hits with full impact. It remains one of his most emotionally resonant tracks, showcasing depth beyond the rebellious persona.
“Candy” (feat. Trippie Redd) – Vibey Collaboration
This Hotel Diablo track pairs MGK with Trippie Redd for something melodic and atmospheric. The production features dreamy guitar tones, trap-influenced drums, and bass that sits perfectly in the pocket. Both artists trade melodic passages that showcase their versatility—this isn’t aggressive or confrontational, but rather introspective and almost meditative. The vocal production includes interesting stereo effects and layering that rewards headphone listening, creating a spacious soundscape that feels expansive despite the relatively simple arrangement. The chemistry between both artists feels natural, like they’re genuinely vibing together rather than recording separate features that were stitched together later.
“DarkSide” – Personal Struggles
From Hotel Diablo, “DarkSide” tackles mental health with uncommon honesty. The production is stripped back, featuring acoustic guitar as its foundation with subtle electronic elements building throughout. MGK’s vocal delivery is raw and conversational, and the mixing choices reflect this—there’s minimal processing, allowing the emotional content to carry the track. The bridge section introduces fuller instrumentation that mirrors the lyrical intensity, and the entire arrangement feels purposeful rather than accidental. It’s not the most radio-friendly track in his catalog, but it might be among his most important, representing an artist willing to be genuinely vulnerable about struggles many people face.
“GTS” – High-Energy Banger
This bloom standout is pure adrenaline. The production hits hard immediately with distorted bass and aggressive drums that create an intense foundation for MGK’s rapid delivery. The hook is designed for live performance—it’s anthemic, repetitive, and built to get crowds moving. The vocal production keeps his voice cutting through the dense instrumental, and there’s enough dynamic variation to prevent the track from becoming monotonous despite its intensity. The guitar work in the background adds texture without competing with the vocals, and the overall mix has that compressed, in-your-face quality that makes it perfect for car audio systems turned up loud.
“Drunk Face” – Late-Night Vibes
This deeper cut showcases MGK’s ability to create atmosphere. The production is moody and dark, featuring minor key melodies and restrained drums that create space for introspective lyrics. The vocal production includes interesting doubling effects and spatial processing that make his voice feel both present and distant simultaneously. It’s not built for radio or streaming playlists, but for listeners willing to sit with something more contemplative. The bass tone is particularly noteworthy—it’s felt more than heard, providing subtle foundation without dominating the frequency spectrum. Through quality audio equipment, you’ll appreciate the production details that make this track work so effectively.
“Play This When I’m Gone” – Legacy Statement
From Tickets to My Downfall, this track feels like MGK making a statement about mortality and legacy. The pop-punk production features layered guitars, pounding drums from Travis Barker, and melodic vocal lines that stick with you. The lyrics are simultaneously defiant and vulnerable, acknowledging fame’s temporary nature while asserting his impact. The production quality is polished without feeling sterile—there’s still grit in the guitar tones and power in the drum hits. The bridge section strips things back momentarily before building to a final chorus that hits with accumulated emotional weight. It’s the kind of song that rewards both casual and focused listening experiences.
“Habits” – Addiction Confession
This Hotel Diablo track confronts substance abuse with uncomfortable honesty. The production is relatively minimal—piano-driven with subtle electronic elements and restrained drums that allow the lyrical content to remain focal. MGK’s vocal delivery conveys exhaustion and desperation, and the mixing choices support this by keeping his voice intimate and dry rather than drowning it in reverb or effects. The song builds gradually, introducing fuller instrumentation as it progresses, mirroring the escalating nature of the addiction being described. It’s difficult listening in many ways, but that’s precisely the point—it’s not meant to be comfortable or entertaining, but rather honest and confronting.
“title track” – Tickets to My Downfall – Pop-Punk Mission Statement
The title track from his genre-switching album perfectly encapsulates what MGK was trying to accomplish. Travis Barker’s drumming drives everything forward with relentless energy, while distorted guitars and melodic vocal hooks create that nostalgic pop-punk feeling with modern production clarity. The arrangement includes smart dynamic shifts—the verses are relatively stripped back, allowing the choruses to explode with full instrumentation. The vocal production strikes a balance between raw punk energy and polished studio quality. For fans of our extensive song catalog coverage, this represents a fascinating case study in successful genre reinvention from an established artist.
“Floor 13” – Experimental Hip-Hop
This bloom track pushes boundaries within hip-hop frameworks. The production features unconventional sound design—distorted bass, glitchy electronic elements, and drums that hit harder than typical rap production. MGK’s delivery matches the experimental production with a flow that shifts cadences unexpectedly, keeping listeners engaged throughout. The mixing is aggressive, with elements competing for space in ways that feel intentional rather than messy. It’s not his most accessible track, but it demonstrates artistic ambition beyond commercial considerations. The mastering retains enough dynamic range to prevent distortion while maintaining the track’s intentionally abrasive qualities.
“5:3666” (feat. phem) – Dark Energy
Closing Tickets to My Downfall, this collaboration with phem creates something genuinely unsettling. The production features distorted instrumentation, aggressive drums, and vocals processed to sound desperate and unhinged. It’s the darkest moment on an album that already explored depression and self-destruction, and the sonic choices reflect that darkness perfectly. The guitar tones are harsh and dissonant, the vocals are pushed to extremes, and the overall mix feels intentionally overwhelming. It’s not comfortable listening, but it’s an artistic statement that requires this level of sonic extremity to convey its emotional content effectively.
“Hangover Cure” – Pop-Punk Energy
This mainstream sellout track delivers exactly what pop-punk fans want—infectious energy, memorable hooks, and production that balances clarity with grit. Travis Barker’s drumming is characteristically excellent, providing propulsive energy throughout. The guitar work channels early 2000s alternative rock while maintaining modern production standards. MGK’s vocal melodies are catchy without being simplistic, and the song structure includes enough variation to maintain interest despite its relatively short runtime. The mixing ensures every element is audible and distinct, from the bass guitar to the cymbal crashes. It’s not reinventing anything, but it executes the pop-punk formula with skill and genuine enthusiasm that translates through speakers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Machine Gun Kelly’s biggest hit song?
“Bloody Valentine” stands as MGK’s most commercially successful single to date, reaching number one on Billboard’s Alternative Airplay chart and introducing him to mainstream pop-punk audiences. However, “Wild Boy” featuring Waka Flocka Flame remains his most recognizable hip-hop track from his earlier career, achieving platinum certification and becoming a cultural moment in early 2010s rap. The success of these songs in different genres demonstrates his versatility and ability to connect with diverse audiences across musical styles.
Did Machine Gun Kelly completely stop making rap music?
While MGK shifted primary focus to pop-punk with Tickets to My Downfall and mainstream sellout, he hasn’t completely abandoned hip-hop. His earlier catalog remains celebrated, and he occasionally incorporates rap elements into newer material. The genre shift was more about artistic evolution and exploring new creative directions rather than rejecting his hip-hop roots entirely. Many longtime fans appreciate both eras of his career, recognizing the consistent themes of rebellion and authenticity that persist regardless of genre.
How did Travis Barker influence Machine Gun Kelly’s sound?
Travis Barker’s collaboration with MGK proved transformative, providing both production expertise and punk credibility. Barker’s live drumming on tracks like “Bloody Valentine” and “My Ex’s Best Friend” brought organic energy that programmed drums couldn’t replicate. His production approach emphasized dynamic arrangements and authentic instrumentation while maintaining modern mixing standards. The partnership helped MGK transition into pop-punk convincingly, connecting him with alternative rock audiences who might have dismissed the genre shift without Barker’s involvement and endorsement from the punk community.
What are Machine Gun Kelly’s best songs for new listeners?
New listeners should start with “Bloody Valentine” for his pop-punk side and “Wild Boy” for his hip-hop origins. “My Ex’s Best Friend” featuring blackbear offers accessible alternative pop, while “Till I Die” showcases his technical rap abilities. “I Think I’m OKAY” with YUNGBLUD and Travis Barker bridges both eras perfectly. These tracks represent his range and evolution while remaining highly listenable for audiences unfamiliar with his deeper catalog, providing entry points to explore further based on which style resonates most.
How has Machine Gun Kelly’s production quality evolved?
MGK’s production evolution is dramatic—from the relatively lo-fi aggression of early mixtapes to the polished, radio-ready sound of Tickets to My Downfall. His collaboration with established producers like Travis Barker brought professional studio quality and better mixing/mastering. The guitar tones on recent albums demonstrate significant improvement in recording techniques, while vocal production has become more sophisticated. Despite increased polish, his music maintains raw emotional energy, proving that technical improvement doesn’t necessarily mean losing authenticity or edge that made his early work compelling.