Till I Die

Machine Gun Kelly's 'Till I Die' is a raw and unfiltered homage to his hometown of Cleveland, Ohio. The song is a testament to his unwavering loyalty and pride for the city that shaped him. From the very first line, 'One time for the city, my city,' MGK sets the tone for a track that is both a celebration and a declaration of his roots. The repetition of 'till I die' underscores his lifelong commitment to Cleveland, making it clear that no matter where life takes him, his heart will always belong to 'The Land.'

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of MGK's upbringing on the East Side of Cleveland. He references local landmarks and cultural touchstones, such as bumping Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, a legendary rap group also from Cleveland. This not only situates MGK within a specific cultural context but also pays respect to the artists who paved the way for him. The song is filled with gritty details of his life, from 'smoking mid' and 'throwing hands in the hall' to 'snatching purses in the mall.' These anecdotes provide a glimpse into the struggles and hustles that defined his early years, making his success all the more poignant.

MGK's use of vivid imagery and local slang ('Erry'where I go I'm puttin' on') adds authenticity to his narrative. He proudly declares his allegiance to his city, even getting it 'tatted up on all my squad.' This sense of community and shared identity is a recurring theme, emphasizing that his success is not just his own but a victory for everyone who came from the same streets. The song's energetic beat and repetitive chorus create an anthemic quality, making it a rallying cry for anyone who feels a deep connection to their hometown.

'Till I Die' is more than just a song; it's a cultural artifact that captures the essence of Cleveland through the eyes of one of its most famous sons. It's a reminder that no matter where you go, your roots remain a fundamental part of who you are.