Machine Gun Kelly’s victory at the 2024 People’s Choice Country Awards sparked a wave of reactions, as fans and critics alike were left divided over his win in the country music scene.
The American rapper surprised many when he took home the Best Crossover Song award at the 2024 People’s Choice Country Awards. The much-anticipated event took place on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tennessee. MGK was recognized for his hit song “Lonely Road,” a collaboration with country singer Jelly Roll.
As MGK stepped on stage to accept the award, he delivered a heartfelt speech that resonated with many. “Country music, thank you for welcoming us into your house,” he began. “I don’t view music in genres. To me, there’s two genres of music: good music and bad music. I think we’re in the good part,” the 34-year-old singer expressed, as he lifted the award high above his head.
In his speech, the “Wild Boy” singer also touched on his relationship with Roll, a fellow artist with whom he once had a feud. “We went from 10 years ago hating each other to elevating each other,” he said. He added, “Comparison is the thief of joy. There is enough room on this couch for everybody. We found camaraderie in the chaos.”
The speech concluded on a personal note when MGK shared his reflections from the previous year. He noted, “Last year, I was right there, sitting in that seat, watching my boy rocking that stage. And I was like, ‘Man, one day I hope we’re up there.’ And we’re here!”
While the moment was significant for Kelly, it didn’t go unnoticed that not everyone shared his excitement. Some country music fans were quick to voice their disappointment online, expressing strong opinions about the crossover of the artist into a traditionally rooted genre like country music.
