American rapper and rock artist Machine Gun Kelly (MGK) has once again pushed creative boundaries with the release of his new album, Lost Americana. Among the standout tracks, “Starman” is attracting widespread attention for its nostalgic yet fresh sound, as it incorporates a sample from Third Eye Blind’s 1997 alternative rock hit, “Semi-Charmed Life.”
MGK revealed that securing the sample rights was not just a business move, but a personal journey. Speaking in a recent interview, the rapper shared that he cleared the sample following a dramatic encounter during California’s wildfire crisis. According to MGK, the National Guard had been deployed in his area at the time, creating a tense and surreal atmosphere. This life-altering moment, he said, fueled his creative vision and inspired the thematic depth of Lost Americana.
Third Eye Blind frontman Stephan Jenkins personally approved the sample and praised MGK’s interpretation as a form of “cultural continuation.” Jenkins highlighted that music evolves when artists bridge generational gaps, and he expressed satisfaction that “Semi-Charmed Life” could find new life in a modern track like “Starman.”
The fusion of nostalgic rock with MGK’s unique blend of rap and pop-punk reflects the artist’s ongoing transformation. Since his 2020 pivot from rap dominance to a more alternative-rock-driven sound with albums like Tickets to My Downfall and Mainstream Sellout, MGK has embraced a hybrid style that resonates with both younger listeners and fans of 1990s rock.
Music critics have noted that Lost Americana carries themes of self-discovery, resilience, and cultural identity, with “Starman” serving as one of its emotional anchors. By weaving a familiar hook from the late ’90s into a contemporary arrangement, MGK not only pays homage to an era that shaped his generation but also introduces the song to an entirely new audience.
The collaboration between MGK and Third Eye Blind also demonstrates a growing trend in the music industry—artists merging past and present to create something timeless. Similar examples include Olivia Rodrigo sampling Paramore’s “Misery Business” in “good 4 u” and Drake referencing The Beatles in “Way 2 Sexy.” This interplay between eras helps keep iconic songs relevant while allowing newer musicians to tap into established fan bases.
Lost Americana is already generating significant buzz on streaming platforms, and “Starman” is poised to become one of the album’s signature hits. With its combination of heartfelt lyricism, cultural nostalgia, and modern production, the track is a testament to MGK’s versatility and willingness to take creative risks.
As the album continues to climb charts worldwide, MGK’s embrace of musical heritage through “Starman” positions him as not just a genre-bending performer, but as a bridge between the alternative rock icons of the past and the eclectic soundscape of today’s music scene.