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.

One user commented, “That was a disgrace to all of country and to our past ledgens Legends Legends [sic].” Another echoed the sentiment, stating, “Terrible!!! Not country [sic]!”

There were more reactions, such as, “Awful!! Stay away from country music 😢,” as others expressed their frustration with the change MGK represented. One user voiced, “What a slap in the face to real country singers. It’s so wrong. So sad.”

The criticism didn’t end there. Another disappointed fan wrote, “I’m so embarrassed for country music,” while yet another disgruntled commenter added, “John Denver just turned over in his grave, so sad.”

One fan, seemingly confused by MGK’s genre shift, commented, “Since when did he change to country? I’m so confused.” Another chimed in, “I wanna ask what happened to country music – but then they said ‘people’s choice’ so I guess that answers that [sic].”

However, amid the wave of negative reactions, there were also those who showed support for MGK. One user shared their evolving opinion of the artist, “I have never seen someone so happy to win an award! I was an MGK hater during his rap era. But as a person, he really does seem so nice [sic].” Others praised his musical talents, with one user simply saying, “mgk’s voice is beautiful [sic].”

Later, Kelly retweeted a clip shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, capturing his ecstatic reaction, along with the caption, “i still cant believe it 🤯🤯🤯 [sic].” The video quickly spread across the platform, with fans and critics alike weighing in on the unforgettable moment.

Photos of MGK holding his trophy high above his head, arms raised in triumph, were also shared by the official People’s Choice Country Awards social media accounts, further immortalizing the night that MGK proved his versatility as an artist.

Beyond his unexpected win, MGK’s presence at the event also provided a deeper glimpse into his personal journey. While speaking ahead of the awards ceremony, MGK opened up about a significant change in his life—his sobriety.

The musician, born Colson Baker, revealed how a shift in his mindset became the key to turning his life around. “I had to zoom out and take a look at myself from a holistic perspective,” he shared, speaking candidly about his journey.

He further explained the significance of the number 22, reflecting on its meaning in his life. “I was born on the 22nd. Twenty-two is a master number. What am I here to master? I had to ask myself that question.”

This introspection led MGK to explore the generational challenges passed down to him, acknowledging the impact of his father’s struggles, saying, “What were my generational curses and problems that were passed down on to me and to my father? Rest in peace.”

For MGK, overcoming these inherited issues has led him to a place of clarity. He now sees his role as “a good man” as part of his purpose. “I find solace in knowing that I can, you know, punish myself today so that I can forgive myself tomorrow,” he explained, alluding to the difficult but necessary process of self-reflection.

Central to his sobriety journey is his deep love for his daughter, Casie. “I have a daughter who I love with all of my heart and would die for. And I have a beautiful family and a beautiful group of friends and a beautiful life to live for. And I’m not in a haze anymore to not realize that,” expressed Kelly.

This combination of personal and professional triumphs made MGK’s appearance at the 2024 People’s Choice Country Awards all the more significant.

While the award solidified his position as a versatile artist, his candid reflections on his sobriety journey revealed a more intimate side of the star, one that might resonate with many who have faced similar struggles.