Machine Gun Kelly opened up about his sobriety journey during his appearance at the 2024 People’s Choice Country Awards (PCCA) in Nashville. The singer, who was both nominated and performed at the awards show, noted how a change in his mindset enabled him to take the step to being sober. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Machine Gun Kelly spoke about his inspiration for staying sober and not being “in a haze anymore.”
Machine Gun Kelly opens up about his sobriety journey
Machine Gun Kelly arrived in style to celebrate country music at the annual People’s Choice Country Awards on Thursday. Speaking to PEOPLE, the singer opened up about the shift that led him to his sobriety journey. He said, “I had to zoom out and take a look at myself from a holistic perspective.”
The rapper continued, “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. What were my generational curses and problems that were passed down on to me and to my father? Rest in peace.” He even sought inspiration from his family, who he wanted to live for, as he embarked on the healing journey.
Machine Gun Kelly said that he finds “solace” in acknowledging that he “can punish myself today so that I can forgive myself tomorrow.” The singer continued, “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.” He shares a daughter, Casie Colson Baker, with ex-girlfriend Emma Cannon.
The rapper recently celebrated one year of being sober in August. During his appearance on Bunnie Xo’s podcast, “Dumb Blonde,” he said, “I’m completely sober from everything. I don’t drink anymore. I haven’t drank since last August.” He recalled heading to rehab after wrapping up his European tour in July 2023. The singer also expressed gratitude to his partner Megan Fox for playing an important part in his healing journey.
Machine Gun Kelly won the People’s Choice Country Award for Best Crossover Song of 2024 for “Lonely Road.” He also won a PCCA for Cover Song of 2024 for “Sun to Me.”
