Machine Gun Kelly and Jelly Roll have officially released their highly anticipated single, “Lonely Road,” on July 26. This collaboration marks a significant moment for both artists, as it showcases a blend of their unique styles while paying homage to the classic country sound that has influenced many musicians over the years.
The song draws clear inspiration from John Denver’s iconic hit, “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” which was released in 1971. The duo has cleverly incorporated elements of Denver’s melody and lyrics into their own work, creating a fresh take on a beloved classic. This move may signal a potential pivot into country music for MGK, who has previously explored various genres throughout his career.
To build excitement for the release, MGK shared a teaser of the music video on social media, captioning it, “Countdown to KellyRoll activated. 🚧 thanks to John Denver for paving the way.” The brief clip offers a glimpse into the narrative of the song, featuring MGK being arrested on the hood of a police car and later attending a funeral with Jelly Roll. Fans were quick to notice a cameo from Jelly Roll’s wife, Bunnie XO, who expressed her enthusiasm in the comments.
This collaboration comes two years after MGK’s last album, “Mainstream Sellout,” which topped the Billboard 200 chart. Since then, he has continued to evolve as an artist, recently teaming up with Trippie Redd for the “Genre: Sadboy” EP. Meanwhile, Jelly Roll has been making waves in the music industry, recently featuring on Eminem’s album “The Death of Slim Shady (Coup De Grâce)” and sweeping three categories at the CMT Music Awards.
The music video for “Lonely Road” further enhances the song’s narrative. Directed by Sam Cahill, it portrays Jelly Roll and MGK as down-on-their-luck mechanics, navigating personal struggles and relationships. The video touches on themes of love, loss, and the challenges of life, resonating with many fans who appreciate the raw honesty in their lyrics.
In the video, MGK’s character is seen robbing a bank to support his pregnant wife, while Jelly Roll’s character grapples with the moral implications of a life of crime. The lyrics delve into deeper issues, including reliance on alcohol and fertility struggles, making the song relatable to a wide audience. Bunnie XO’s character is depicted holding a letter with an infertility diagnosis, a topic that has been personal for both couples involved.
Both artists have expressed their admiration for each other throughout the creative process. MGK took to Instagram to praise Jelly Roll, calling him a “living breathing badass” and a “kindred soul.” He reflected on their journey from past conflicts to their current collaboration, emphasizing the importance of support and friendship in their lives.
Jelly Roll echoed these sentiments, highlighting their shared backgrounds and the challenges they have overcome. He noted that their collaboration is a testament to their growth as individuals and artists, celebrating their friendship that has developed over the years.
The release of “Lonely Road” not only showcases the musical talents of Machine Gun Kelly and Jelly Roll but also signifies a potential new direction for both artists. As MGK continues to explore country influences, fans are eager to see how this will shape his future projects. Jelly Roll, on the other hand, is riding a wave of success, with his recent accolades and collaborations further solidifying his place in the music industry.
As the song gains traction on streaming platforms, fans are already speculating about the possibility of more collaborations between the two artists. Their chemistry on stage and in the studio has proven to be a winning combination, and many are excited to see what the future holds for KellyRoll.
In conclusion, “Lonely Road” is a powerful collaboration that not only pays tribute to a classic song but also showcases the personal journeys of both Machine Gun Kelly and Jelly Roll. With its heartfelt lyrics and engaging visuals, the single is poised to resonate with fans and potentially become one of the biggest hits of their careers. As they continue to push boundaries and explore new musical territories, both artists are sure to leave a lasting impact on the industry.
Source: Variety US
