Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger has thrown his support behind Machine Gun Kelly and Yungblud, naming the two artists as key figures carrying rock music into the future. In a new interview, the rock legend offered high praise for the younger acts, signaling his belief in their potential to keep the genre alive.
Jagger didn’t hold back when discussing the current state of rock. He specifically highlighted MGK and Yungblud as artists bringing fresh energy and blending genres in ways that resonate with new audiences. “They’re the ones carrying the torch,” Jagger said, acknowledging the challenges rock faces in the streaming era but expressing optimism through these rising stars.
Why MGK and Yungblud?
Machine Gun Kelly has made a full pivot from rap to pop-punk and rock, releasing albums like Tickets to My Downfall and Mainstream Sellout that topped charts and brought in a new wave of fans. Yungblud, known for his high-energy performances and socially conscious lyrics, has built a massive following with hits like “Parents” and “Loner,” often cited as a voice for Gen Z.
Jagger’s comments come as he continues to champion new music while The Rolling Stones remain active with new material and touring plans. His endorsement carries significant weight, given his own history of pushing boundaries and collaborating across genres.
The Bigger Picture for Rock Music
Rock has faced ongoing debates about its relevance in the modern music landscape. Jagger’s praise for MGK and Yungblud suggests he sees a path forward through artists who mix rock with hip-hop, punk, and alternative elements. This aligns with his own career, which has seen the Stones experiment with everything from disco to reggae over the decades.
Both MGK and Yungblud have expressed admiration for classic rock acts, including the Stones, making Jagger’s comments a full-circle moment for the genre.
