Machine Gun Kelly just released a new track called “Starman” from his album *Lost Americana*, and it samples Third Eye Blind’s classic hit “Semi-Charmed Life.” Frontman Stephan Jenkins had some positive words about MGK, saying, “He is irrepressible. Uncontainable in the way people want to be. I’m glad that artists like MGK find ways to bring energy and life to their own stories through the song.”
MGK faced some challenges to get the sample cleared. He shared that “Semi-Charmed Life” is a huge part of his life growing up, so he was determined to include it on the album. He even reached out to Jenkins directly and planned to meet him at his home in Malibu. However, wildfires made the roads impassable. MGK explained, “So many homes were burnt and lost in that strip there. You can only get through if you have a resident pass, which I do not.”
To get past the National Guard, MGK had to make a special appeal. He recalled, “I pulled my car up to the National Guard and said, ‘Dude, please be a young army man who likes MGK.’ I told him I was trying to clear this song for an album that means a lot to me. The guy to clear it is right in there, so will you believe in this mission and let me accomplish it?’ He said, ‘Go ahead, bro. I better hear it on the album.’”
MGK’s determination paid off, and Jenkins praised him for his efforts. He noted that MGK’s ability to connect with people is a big reason why his fans feel uplifted by his music. *Lost Americana* is out now, so be sure to check it out!
