Machine Gun Kelly has done it again — this time by sampling one of the most iconic emo tracks of the late ’90s. His new song, “Starman,” features elements from Third Eye Blind’s hit “Semi-Charmed Life”, and the story behind how it came together is almost as wild as the track itself.
Frontman Stephan Jenkins shared details with us Wednesday about how the collaboration happened, offering fans a rare peek behind the scenes.
How MGK Won Over Jenkins
According to Jenkins, he and MGK first crossed paths at an Emo Nite event in Los Angeles last year — a touring series where fans and celebrities gather to celebrate emo music, from DJs spinning classic tracks to live performances.
“Kelly came backstage and introduced himself. There was a genuine connection right away,” Jenkins said.
He praised MGK for his sincerity and deep respect for music across genres, explaining that this was a big deal because he’s turned down many other artists looking to sample Third Eye Blind’s catalog.
MGK’s approach impressed Jenkins enough to finally approve the sample, turning the classic “Semi-Charmed Life” into something completely new and modern for his track “Starman.”
A Wild Story Behind the Sample Clearance
MGK is already spinning the tale as a near-Hollywood moment. Earlier this year, during the L.A. wildfires, Kelly claims he convinced a National Guardsman to let him into a Malibu neighborhood so he could clear the sample — all while the city was in chaos.
Jenkins confirmed the story is true and added some vivid details:
- MGK arrived in a pink Rolls-Royce.
- He didn’t go to Jenkins’ house, because Jenkins was staying with a friend at the time.
“He’s persistent, creative, and respectful — that’s why I let him sample the track,” Jenkins added.
Could There Be More Collaboration?
Fans are already wondering if this one-off sampling could lead to a full-blown collaboration between MGK and Third Eye Blind. Jenkins teased in the interview, leaving the door open:
“Never say never,” he said, hinting that more music could be on the horizon.
With MGK’s knack for blending genres and Jenkins’ iconic emo sound, the prospect of future tracks together has fans buzzing.
MGK’s Genre-Crossing Move
“Starman” is just another example of how Machine Gun Kelly continues to blur genre lines, moving seamlessly between rap, pop-punk, and alternative rock. By sampling Third Eye Blind, he not only pays homage to emo culture but also introduces it to a new generation of fans.
The single is expected to generate major buzz on social media, with emo and pop-punk enthusiasts dissecting the sample and its modern twist.
What Fans Are Saying
Already, social media is lighting up with reactions to the Third Eye Blind nod:
- Some fans are thrilled by the nostalgia, noting how MGK respects the original track.
- Others are curious if this signals a full emo revival in mainstream music.
- Emo Nite regulars are hyped to see the event fostering real musical collaborations.
Final Thoughts
Machine Gun Kelly’s latest move is more than just a single — it’s a cultural bridge, connecting iconic ’90s emo with today’s genre-hopping artists. With Jenkins’ rare approval and MGK’s storytelling flair, “Starman” promises to be one of 2025’s standout tracks.
What do you think about MGK sampling “Semi-Charmed Life”? Drop your thoughts below and let us know if you want more collabs with Third Eye Blind!
