Written by: Nicholas Sarysz

When it comes to the pop-punk genre, few artists have had a more recent significant impact than Machine Gun Kelly. The American rapper and singer songwriter has been instrumental in the recent resurgence of the genre, and his influence is felt in the music of countless up-and-coming bands. Perhaps the most notable example of this is his role in reuniting the legendary punk rock trio Blink-182, who recently announced their first tour in four years.

Machine Gun Kelly, known by fans as MGK, is a Cleveland-born rapper and singer songwriter who has been making waves in the music industry since the release of his debut album, “Lace Up” in 2012. His music, which blends elements of hip-hop and punk rock, has been praised by critics and fans alike. MGK has been an outspoken advocate of the pop-punk genre and has become both an icon and a villain for the new generation of punk rockers.

In recent years, MGK has become increasingly popular with mainstream audiences and has achieved considerable commercial success. His latest albums, “Tickets to My Downfall” and “Mainstream Sellout” peaked at number one on the Billboard 200. These albums are credited with igniting the pop-punk revival and have helped to bring the genre to a broader, younger audience.

MGK’s rise to mainstream success has been met with a certain degree of criticism from fans of the genre. Some have argued that his increasing popularity has led to the genre becoming too commercialized and diluted. This has left some fans feeling alienated by the genre and has caused tension between fans of the genre and those who are more open to its mainstream appeal.

While there is certainly an element of truth to these criticisms, it is important to remember that MGK is still very much true to his roots. He has always been passionate about the genre and has collaborated with a number of punk bands including Fall Out Boy, Sleeping with Sirens, The All-American Rejects and Blink-182.

Travis Barker, Blink-182’s drummer, co-produced both of MGK’s latest albums and has stated on numerous occasions that MGK has sparked a new excitement for music and touring. In addition to the album production, the pair have also performed live together, including the last few dates of the Mainstream Sellout Tour, and at the 2020 MTV Video Music Awards, where they played a medley of songs from the album. MGK’s revival of the pop-punk genre made it the perfect time for Blink-182 to capitalize on the “wave” and announce a revival tour.

Blink-182 has always been known for its catchy pop-punk sound, humorous lyrics and energetic live performances. Many of the band’s fans have followed their journey since the band’s creation in Poway, California in 1992. These “day one” fans, combined with the newest audience of pop-punk fans, led to their “2023 World Tour” selling out within the first five minutes of tickets going on sale.

The closest show for Western students to attend is in Seattle, Washington, on Sunday, June 25, for a minimum resale price of $148 before fees.

Contact the author at howlstaffwriter@wou.edu