Taking on the 1971 classic country tune “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver, mgk (formerly Machine Gun Kelly) and Jelly Roll have finally unleashed their long-awaited collaborative single, “Lonely Road.”
In a heartfelt Instagram post earlier this week, mgk and Jelly Roll share, “we worked on “Lonely Road” for 2 years, 8 different studios, 4 different countries, changed the key 4 times, and this Friday you’ll hear we finally got it right.”
Shedding his pop-punk bad-boy attitude, mgk adopts a gruff country tone for “Lonely Road,” harmonizing exquisitely with Jelly Roll’s rich, soulful delivery. The track itself is a masterful display of mgk’s versatility and Jelly Roll’s expertise in the country genre, seamlessly blending their distinct styles into a powerful and emotionally charged release.
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The heart-wrenching music video accompanying the release is the true star of the launch. Starring mgk and his long-term partner Megan Fox, alongside Jelly Roll and his wife, Bunnie Xo, the video delves deep into themes of poverty, infertility, friendship, brotherhood, and the struggles of providing for your family, especially when faced with no other options. It beautifully captures the essence of the song’s narrative, portraying the lonely road that many are forced to take in order to survive.
Additionally, while venturing into a new genre, the Cleveland native confidently showcases his range—something he has consistently proven in rap, emo/pop-punk, and now in country music. The track cleverly name-drops emo/pop-punk icons Taking Back Sunday with the line, “I’ma go downtown/Ain’t been in a long time/I’m taking back Sundays/Since you took away my life.”
Check out the heart-shattering music video for “Lonely Road” below.