Deciphering Machine Gun Kelly’s Extensive Tattoo Collection: Exploring the Meaning Behind the Musician’s Ink
Tattoos tell a story, and sometimes it’s a mystery we want to solve. Machine Gun Kelly sports over 70 tattoos, each with its own tale and significance. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the ink-stained world of MGK to decode the meanings behind his most iconic tattoos.
Keep reading to uncover the personal journey etched on his skin!
Key Takeaways
- Machine Gun Kelly has over 70 tattoos, each carrying a unique story or personal meaning related to his life experiences and artistic influences.
- Prominent tattoos include the “Tickets to My Downfall” neck tattoo symbolizing his album’s impact, the thorny-ring tattoo representing resilience, and the “Casie” tattoo for his daughter emphasizing familial love.
- MGK’s body art reflects various aspects of his personality and interests, from tributes to loved ones like the “I Miss You” tattoo for his father to homages to pop culture with designs like Jessica Rabbit.
- His tattoos are more than just decoration; they often portray deep symbolic meanings such as strength, freedom, beliefs in fate versus free will, and duality through pieces like the Angel and Demon tattoos.
- The musician seamlessly blends elements from different facets of life into his skin art narrative—his birth year (“Est. 1990”), tribute to heritage (“CLE”, “Locals Only”), support against injustice (“557”), commitment to sobriety (“XXX”)—illustrating a profound connection between MGK’s identity, music career, and body art.
Exploring Machine Gun Kelly’s Most Notable Tattoos
Machine Gun Kelly’s extensive tattoo collection includes several notable designs, such as the “Tickets to My Downfall” neck tattoo and the thorny-ring neck tattoo. Each piece of body art tells a unique story about the musician’s life and influences.
“Tickets to My Downfall” Neck Tattoo
“Tickets to My Downfall,” inked boldly across Machine Gun Kelly’s neck, captures more than just a passing fancy. It represents one of his successful albums that marked a significant shift in his music career.
This piece of body art is not only a nod to the album’s impact but also serves as a visible reminder of MGK’s artistic journey and versatility.
The tattoo mirrors the musician’s personal evolution and stands out as an emblem of both triumph and vulnerability. By etching the title into his skin, MGK ties his identity closely with his work, illustrating how deeply intertwined this project is with his narrative as an artist and individual.
Thorny-Ring Neck Tattoo
Machine Gun Kelly’s thorny-ring neck tattoo is a prominent part of his extensive collection, symbolizing resilience and strength. The intricate design features a ring of sharp thorns encircling his neck, portraying the musician’s tough exterior and unwavering determination.
This tattoo reflects MGK’s tough journey in the music industry and personal life, as he perseveres through challenges and obstacles. The striking imagery of the thorny-ring neck tattoo adds to Machine Gun Kelly’s eclectic body art, showcasing his unique style and individuality.
Expressing an edgy persona, this iconic thorny-neck tattoo perfectly complements Machine Gun Kelly’s other significant tattoos while reflecting his bold personality. With each inked motif holding deep personal meanings, Machine Gun Kelly’s extensive collection portrays his artistic expression alongside intricate symbolism that resonates with fans worldwide.
“XX” Behind-the-Ear Tattoo
The “XX” behind-the-ear tattoo is one of the notable designs in Machine Gun Kelly’s extensive collection. This small but impactful piece reflects a personal and symbolic meaning for the musician.
The “XX” tattoo signifies Malcolm X, symbolizing Kelly’s admiration for the civil rights activist, often seen as an influential figure representing strength and resilience. This meaningful tattoo adds to the depth of his body art, showcasing not just aesthetic choices but also personal ideals and beliefs.
Adding to his extensive collection of over 70 tattoos, Machine Gun Kelly’s choice of the “XX” design as a small yet powerful tribute demonstrates his commitment to expressing profound symbols through ink on his skin.
Pac-Man Neck Tattoos
Machine Gun Kelly’s Pac-Man neck tattoos reflect his love for retro gaming and serve as a playful addition to his extensive body art collection. The colorful, pixelated characters symbolize MGK’s unapologetic expression of nostalgia and fun.
His choice to adorn his neck with these iconic figures showcases the musician’s bold and lighthearted approach to self-expression through ink. The Pac-Man neck tattoos also tie in seamlessly with Machine Gun Kelly’s renowned eccentricity, capturing both his irreverent spirit and appreciation for pop culture.
The vividly inked Pac-Man neck tattoos add a touch of whimsy to Machine Gun Kelly’s already eclectic array of body art, further solidifying their significance in representing the artist’s multifaceted personality.
Vertical-Slit Neck Tattoo
The vertical-slit neck tattoo adorning Machine Gun Kelly’s throat is a striking and attention-grabbing addition to his extensive collection. This bold design, reminiscent of a deep cut or wound, symbolizes the rapper’s unapologetic approach to self-expression and artistry.
Much like other meaningful tattoos, this piece reflects MGK’s commitment to authenticity and creativity.
Amidst the diverse range of tattoos that adorn Machine Gun Kelly’s body, the vertical-slit neck tattoo stands out as an emblem of his bold and fearless persona. Its prominent placement makes it an integral part of his visual identity as an artist.
Fang-Mark Tattoo
Machine Gun Kelly’s collection of tattoos includes a distinctive fang-mark tattoo, which adds a touch of edginess to his extensive body art. This tattoo is located on the side of his neck and features two bold lines resembling vampire fangs.
The fang-mark tattoo reflects MGK’s penchant for incorporating unique and attention-grabbing designs into his inked repertoire. With over 70 tattoos that hold deep personal meanings and stories, this particular piece adds to the overall narrative of the artist’s self-expression and individuality.
The placement of the fang-mark tattoo on Machine Gun Kelly’s neck also serves as a prominent location for one of his many eye-catching designs. As with all of MGK’s tattoos, there is likely significance behind this specific choice given his inclination towards meaningful body art.
Deep-Diving Into the Meaning of Kelly’s Tattoos
Kelly’s tattoos hold deep personal meanings, reflecting his journey, experiences, and connections with others. From honoring loved ones to embodying influences from his music and art, each tattoo tells a unique story about the musician’s life and career.
“Tickets to My Downfall” and “Est. 1990” Tattoos
Machine Gun Kelly’s “Tickets to My Downfall” and “Est. 1990” tattoos are two of the most recognized pieces in his extensive collection. The “Tickets to My Downfall” ink was inspired by his fifth studio album, serving as a visual representation of its impact on his life and career.
As for the “Est. 1990” tattoo, it reflects MGK’s birth year and origin story, symbolizing where he came from and his journey as an artist.
These tattoos hold significant personal meanings for Machine Gun Kelly, highlighting pivotal moments in both his musical evolution and personal growth. The inscriptions serve as constant reminders of his roots, experiences, and achievements throughout his career.
Angel and Demon Tattoos
Transitioning from the meaningful representations of “Tickets to My Downfall” and “Est. 1990” Tattoos, we delve into Machine Gun Kelly’s body art that symbolizes a duality in his beliefs and personality – the Angel and Demon tattoos.
The prominent Guardian Angel tattoo on MGK’s chest reflects his deep-rooted belief in faith, while the juxtaposed Demon tattoo portrays an aspect of rebellion and inner struggle. These contrasting symbols depict the complex dichotomy within Kelly’s persona, reflecting his journey through spirituality and personal battles.
MGK’s Angel and Demon tattoos serve as a visual expression of his internal conflicts and triumphs, capturing the multi-faceted nature of his life experiences. They underscore the artist’s ability to embrace opposing forces as part of his individuality, making these designs significant embodiments of self-expression for Machine Gun Kelly.
“Casie” Tattoo
Machine Gun Kelly’s “Casie” tattoo is a heartfelt tribute to his daughter. The large script across his throat signifies the immense love and adoration he has for her. This bold and visible tattoo speaks volumes about MGK’s deep connection with fatherhood, showcasing an important part of his personal life in a very public way.
The “Casie” tattoo stands out as a meaningful symbol of familial love amid the artist’s extensive collection.
MGK chose a prominent location for the “Casie” tattoo — right on his neck, making it impossible to miss. This display of affectionate ink serves as a powerful reminder of the significance fatherhood holds in Machine Gun Kelly’s life, further cementing the fact that family remains at the core of both his personal values and artistic expression.
“I Miss You” and “Alpha Omega” Tattoos
The “I Miss You” tattoo on Machine Gun Kelly’s neck is a tribute to his late father, who passed away when the musician was still young. This poignant piece reflects MGK’s deep emotional connection and love for his dad.
Additionally, the “Alpha Omega” tattoo emblazoned on his chest symbolizes eternity and strength, representing his resilience through life’s challenges. These meaningful tattoos showcase MGK’s personal journey and beliefs with profound significance.
Amidst Machine Gun Kelly’s extensive collection of tattoos, the “I Miss You” and “Alpha Omega” designs stand out as powerful representations of emotional depth and inner strength, honoring important aspects of the musician’s life.
Spider Chest Tattoo
The spider chest tattoo on Machine Gun Kelly’s body symbolizes the artist’s embrace of his darker side. The detailed black widow inked across his chest is a representation of fearlessness and embracing the unknown, resonating with MGK’s journey as an artist.
This intricate design adds to the depth and personal meaning behind his extensive collection of tattoos, reflecting both his personal beliefs and artistic expression.
Moving forward to explore “The Darkest Fairytale” and “Double-Decker” Tattoos in further detail.
“The Darkest Fairytale” and “Double-Decker” Tattoos
Transitioning from Machine Gun Kelly’s Spider Chest Tattoo to his tattoos called “The Darkest Fairytale” and “Double-Decker,” we delve into more profound meanings etched on the artist’s skin.
With over 70 tattoos, each holds a significant story or personal symbolism for MGK. The “The Darkest Fairytale” tattoo portrays intricate details that reflect the darker chapters of his life, while the “Double-Decker” ink captures layered meanings with an essence of duality and depth.
“The Darkest Fairytale” takes inspiration from Kelly’s music album with the same name, symbolizing both struggle and resilience in his journey as an artist. Meanwhile, the “Double-Decker” tattoo encapsulates contrasts akin to duality – a recurring theme seen in many of MGK’s tattoos.
Music and Influences Reflected in Kelly’s Tattoos
Kelly’s tattoos reflect his love for music and the influences that have shaped his career, from punk rock to hip-hop. To learn more about the stories behind these meaningful tattoos, keep reading!
“Sex Drugs Rock & Roll” and “City Boy” Tattoos
Machine Gun Kelly’s tattoos reflect his love for music and his wild rockstar lifestyle. The “Sex Drugs Rock & Roll” tattoo serves as a direct nod to the rebellious ethos of rock and roll, symbolizing his dedication to the music genre.
On the other hand, the “City Boy” tattoo encapsulates his pride in coming from an urban environment, representing his roots and where he comes from.
These tattoos are a testament to Machine Gun Kelly’s unapologetic approach to life and music. They encapsulate the essence of his unique persona while also serving as a reminder of the influences that have shaped him as an artist.
“557” and Banksy Artwork Tattoos
Machine Gun Kelly’s tattoo “557” represents his personal connection to police code 557, which means a person is being detained. This ink serves as a statement against the oppressive system.
Additionally, one of the more recognizable tattoos on MGK’s body is Banksy artwork—his depiction of Caroline in a jailhouse visiting room from Banksy’s book “Wall and Piece.” These tattoos add depth to MGK’s extensive collection, reflecting his rebellious spirit and artistic appreciation for meaningful imagery.
The artist’s use of “557” resonates with his belief that speaking out against injustice carries great importance. As for the inclusion of Banksy artwork in his tat collection, it underscores Machine Gun Kelly’s admiration for thought-provoking art and its ability to make powerful statements about society.
“XXX” and “Almost Famous” Tattoos
Transitioning from his tribute to “557” and Banksy artwork tattoos, Machine Gun Kelly’s body art also includes tattoos dedicated to significant moments in his life. The “XXX” tattoo on his forearm is a nod to the straight edge movement, symbolizing sobriety.
This deeply personal piece reflects MGK’s commitment to living a clean lifestyle and has become an essential part of his identity. Additionally, the “Almost Famous” tattoo adorns his torso, paying homage to both the 2000 film as well as MGK’s journey in the music industry.
As one of Machine Gun Kelly’s most recognizable tattoos, this design serves as a reminder of his rise to fame and an emblem of perseverance.
“Locals Only” and “The Giving Tree” Tattoos
Transitioning from exploring Machine Gun Kelly’s music-influenced tattoos to his personal connections and tributes, we delve into the significance of his “Locals Only” and “The Giving Tree” tattoos.
Each inked meticulously on specific parts of his body, these pieces carry deep meaning for MGK. The phrase “Locals Only” etched on the side of his head pays homage to his Cleveland roots and signifies a sense of hometown pride often found in the artist’s lyrics and interviews.
In contrast, “The Giving Tree” tattoo holds sentimental value, symbolizing love and sacrifice. It represents one of MGK’s favorite childhood books by Shel Silverstein that depicts selflessness and unconditional giving – themes echoed in some of the artist’s songs.
“Hotel Diablo” Head Tattoo
Transitioning from the personal connections and tributes through tattoos, Machine Gun Kelly’s “Hotel Diablo” head tattoo stands out as a bold and significant piece of body art. Placed prominently on the side of his shaved head, this tattoo represents the artist’s deep connection to his fourth studio album, “Hotel Diablo.” The intricate details and striking design showcase MGK’s commitment to expressing his art through unique and meaningful body modifications.
The “Hotel Diablo” head tattoo serves as a powerful symbol of artistic passion and dedication, reinforcing Machine Gun Kelly’s persona as a musician who deeply connects with his creativity.
With its eye-catching placement on his head, this tattoo has become an iconic part of his overall image, further emphasizing the marriage between music and visual storytelling in MGK’s life.
Personal Connections and Tributes Through Tattoos
From paying homage to his hometown with “North 71” and “CLE” tattoos to commemorating iconic films like “The Sandlot,” Machine Gun Kelly’s ink tells a story of personal connections and meaningful tributes.
Explore the deeper meanings behind these tattoos in our blog!
“MGK” Back Tattoo
Machine Gun Kelly’s collection of tattoos includes a prominent “MGK” back tattoo, which is an iconic piece for the rapper. The large and intricate design serves as a representation of his journey and personal beliefs.
With over 70 tattoos covering his entire body, this significant addition holds deep meaning within Machine Gun Kelly’s extensive tattoo collection.
The “MGK” back tattoo illustrates the musician’s commitment to self-expression and individuality as an artist. This striking piece not only adds to his impressive array of ink but also serves as a reflection of his unique style and personality.
“North 71” and “CLE” Tattoos
Machine Gun Kelly’s body art expresses his personal ties to his hometown, Cleveland, and the symbolic meaning of “North 71”. The “North 71” tattoo stands out as a prominent landmark in Cleveland, Ohio.
MGK’s strong connection to this location is evident from the significance he attaches to it. Similarly, the “CLE” tattoo showcases his unwavering pride for his city, representing the bond he holds with Cleveland.
Reflecting on these tattoos sheds light on Machine Gun Kelly’s deep-seated roots and resolute identity.
Exploring these symbols illustrates Machine Gun Kelly’s homage to home while delving into what resonates deeply within him. His ink echoes a narrative that encapsulates not just mere visuals but also profound narratives.
“Mayhem” and “The Sandlot” Tattoos
Machine Gun Kelly’s body art includes tattoos like “Mayhem” and “The Sandlot,” reflecting his personal connections and interests. The tattoo “Mayhem” is inked on MGK’s left forearm, representing chaos, rebellion, and the untamed nature of his music.
This particular tattoo echoes the artist’s rebellious spirit and edgy persona.
Another notable tattoo on Machine Gun Kelly’s body is “The Sandlot,” paying homage to a classic American coming-of-age film from the ’90s. This particular ink showcases MGK’s love for nostalgia and signifies moments from childhood that have impacted him deeply.
Jessica Rabbit and Dice Tattoos
Machine Gun Kelly’s tattoo collection includes iconic designs, such as the Jessica Rabbit and dice tattoos. The vibrant depiction of Jessica Rabbit reflects his appreciation for classic pop culture and serves as a visual representation of his artistic influences.
Additionally, the dice tattoos symbolize chance and luck, embodying MGK’s personal beliefs in fate intertwined with free will.
The Jessica Rabbit and dice tattoos exemplify Machine Gun Kelly’s eclectic tastes in body art, showcasing his penchant for incorporating diverse elements into his extensive tattoo collection.
“Live Free” and “Born With Horns” Tattoos
Transitioning from the iconic Jessica Rabbit and Dice Tattoos, Machine Gun Kelly’s body art continues to convey a distinct message through tattoos such as “Live Free” and “Born With Horns.” The phrase “Live Free” is tattooed across MGK’s knuckles, symbolizing his unwavering commitment to living life on his own terms.
This empowering statement reflects the artist’s resolute determination to embrace freedom in all aspects of his existence.
In addition to “Live Free,” Machine Gun Kelly also sports a striking “Born With Horns” tattoo that encapsulates his unapologetic nature. This bold proclamation serves as a declaration of embracing one’s own individuality with pride.
Quirky and Unique Tattoos of Machine Gun Kelly
From his “Boomer” and “Follow Your Dreams” tattoos to his Voodoo-Doll and Ryuk tattoos, Machine Gun Kelly’s body art reflects his unconventional style and diverse interests. To learn more about the intriguing stories behind these unique designs, keep reading!
“Boomer” and “Follow Your Dreams” Tattoos
Machine Gun Kelly’s tattoo collection includes the words “Boomer” and “Follow Your Dreams” as part of his extensive body art. These tattoos are a reflection of the rapper’s personal journey and beliefs, showcasing his dedication to following his dreams alongside a nod to an individual named Boomer or possibly representing aspects of himself.
The meaningful ink adds to Machine Gun Kelly’s expressive persona, displaying his commitment to self-expression through body art.
Moving on from MGK’s thoughtful ink choices, let’s delve into another significant aspect of his extensive tattoo collection – exploring the deeper meaning behind the renowned musician’s iconic Salvador Dali back-piece.
“Lace Up” and 8-Pointed-Star Tattoos
Machine Gun Kelly’s “Lace Up” tattoo is a prominent feature on his body. The phrase represents his debut studio album and embodies the rapper’s resilient and self-made persona, reflecting his rise in the music industry.
Additionally, MGK has an 8-pointed-star tattoo that holds deep significance. The star symbolizes guidance, direction, and spirituality for the musician, reinforcing his journey of self-discovery and personal growth.
These tattoos showcase MGK’s commitment to expressing himself through meaningful body art.
Voodoo-Doll and Ryuk Tattoos
One of Machine Gun Kelly’s standout tattoos is the voodoo doll inked on his body. This unique design reflects MGK’s edgy and unconventional style, symbolizing strength and resilience.
The intricate details of the voodoo-doll tattoo showcase the artist’s commitment to self-expression through body art, adding another layer to his extensive collection.
Similarly, Ryuk tattoos can be seen as a reflection of MGK’s interest in pop culture and Japanese anime. With its bold lines and striking imagery, the Ryuk tattoo holds significance within the musician’s ink collection, portraying a fusion of personal interests and artistic expression.
These distinct tattoos add depth and intrigue to Kelly’s already diverse array of body art, showcasing his eclectic tastes and individuality as an artist.
“Kiss the Sky” and Danger-Sign Tattoos
Transitioning from the unique and quirky Voodoo-Doll and Ryuk Tattoos, Machine Gun Kelly’s extensive collection also includes tattoos like “Kiss the Sky” and Danger-Sign. The “Kiss the Sky” tattoo is located on MGK’s right forearm in bold lettering.
The phrase symbolizes freedom, creativity, and living life to the fullest. On the left side of his neck resides a Danger-Sign tattoo which acts as a visible warning sign that complements his rebellious persona.
Machine Gun Kelly’s “Kiss the Sky” and Danger-Sign tattoos embody his unapologetic approach to life. With these inked representations, he communicates defiance against conformity while embracing artistic expression.
Red Hot Chilli Peppers and Falling Boy Tattoos.
Transitioning from MGK’s “Kiss the Sky” and Danger-Sign Tattoos, let’s delve into the significance of his Red Hot Chilli Peppers and Falling Boy tattoos. The Red Hot Chilli Peppers logo tattoo on Kelly’s arm represents his long-time appreciation for the iconic rock band.
As a passionate musician himself, this tattoo serves as a nod to one of his musical influences. Additionally, the Falling Boy tattoo showcases Machine Gun Kelly’s love for art and represents his ability to embrace vulnerability through self-expression.
These unique tattoos are just two examples of how the musician uses body art to symbolize meaningful aspects of his life and creative journey.
Conclusion
Delving into Machine Gun Kelly’s vast tattoo collection offers a glimpse into the musician’s personal journey and artistic expression. With over 70 tattoos, each piece represents a unique story or belief, showcasing his individuality as an artist.
From intricate designs to profound symbols, MGK’s body art serves as a visual diary of his life experiences and influences. Unraveling the meanings behind these tattoos not only reveals the depth of his self-expression but also provides insight into the intimate connection between art, music, and identity.
FAQs
1. What are some famous designs in Machine Gun Kelly’s tattoo collection?
Machine Gun Kelly has many famous tattoos, including a Salvador Dali backpiece and a skull tattoo.
2. Can you find the meanings behind Machine Gun Kelly’s tattoos?
Yes, we can explore the meanings behind his ink by examining each piece’s symbolism and sometimes he shares insights on his Instagram photos.
3. Has Machine Gun Kelly collaborated with artists for his tattoos?
Indeed, Machine Gun Kelly often collaborates with talented tattoo artists to create his unique designs.
4. What is involved in deciphering the symbolism of MGK’s tattoos?
Deciphering involves studying the details within MGK’s extensive collection and researching stories or interviews where he might discuss their personal significance.
