MGK Attributes Stigmatization of White Rappers to White Fans, Not Black Fans

In a candid interview on Logan Paul’s IMPAULSIVE podcast, Machine Gun Kelly (MGK) opened up about the challenges he’s faced as a white rapper in the Hip Hop industry. The Cleveland-born artist, known for his genre-blending style and bold personality, revealed that the backlash he has encountered throughout his career has predominantly come from white fans rather than Black Hip Hop enthusiasts.

During the interview, MGK discussed the unique pressures that white rappers face, attributing much of the criticism to white Hip Hop fans who, he claims, are more likely to question his credibility and lyrical abilities compared to his Black peers. This revelation caught the podcast hosts off guard, as it challenges the common perception that racial bias in Hip Hop is primarily directed from Black audiences towards white artists.

“I won’t deny that there is a subconscious stigma around being white in Hip Hop,” MGK explained. He noted the irony in the fact that, while he has earned respect from the streets and Black Hip Hop fans, the harshest judgment often comes from those who share his racial background. “To me, it’s so funny because the streets fck with me so tough. It’s honestly from other white people that give me the most sh

Mgk speaks about being a “white rapper” 🤔 pic.twitter.com/z6YHhPspPE

— IMPAULSIVE (@impaulsive) August 28, 2024

MGK went on to describe how this stigma has affected his career, making him feel unworthy or less lyrical compared to other rappers. He shared that overcoming this bias was one of his primary goals, and he believes he has achieved it—although it required a temporary shift to another genre. MGK famously ventured into pop-punk for a couple of albums, which not only expanded his fan base but also allowed him to return to Hip Hop with renewed confidence and fresh bars. “That’s the goal,” he stated. “And to me, I crossed that.”

The rapper also highlighted the unique position of Eminem, whom he regards as the only white rapper to have truly “crossed the color line” and been fully accepted by both white and Black audiences. “The crazy thing is, there’s only been one who’s done it,” MGK asserted. “There’s only been one who’s done it and crossed that line of ‘we accept.'”

MGK’s relationship with Eminem is well-known in the music world, marked by a mix of admiration and rivalry. The two rappers have exchanged barbs over the years, with Eminem referencing MGK in his music and MGK often discussing the challenges of being compared to Slim Shady. Despite this, MGK acknowledges that Eminem remains an exception in the industry, someone who has managed to navigate the complex racial dynamics of Hip Hop successfully.

This isn’t the first time MGK has addressed the issue of race in Hip Hop. In a 2022 interview with DJ Semtex, he discussed how his appearance and style have sometimes been perceived as hindrances to his lyrical recognition. He pointed out that his non-traditional Hip Hop image, combined with his race, has often overshadowed his musical talent in the eyes of some critics.

MGK’s recent comments on IMPAULSIVE shed light on the ongoing challenges faced by white rappers in a genre historically rooted in Black culture. His perspective adds a new layer to the conversation about race and representation in Hip Hop, highlighting the complex dynamics that continue to shape the industry.

• Also read: Megan Thee Stallion Sparks Romance Rumors with NBA’s Torrey Craig in Deleted TikTok Video

Shivam Kumar

Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....