Machine Gun Kelly's song 'Another Classic' serves as a retrospective ode to his roots and the essence of what he defines as classic. Through his lyrics, he celebrates his hometown vibe (216 being the area code for Cleveland, Ohio), reflecting on his past experiences and the evolution of his music career. Machine Gun Kelly reminisces about his early days, the struggles he faced, and the local scenes that shaped him. He also acknowledges the growth that has led him to appreciate bygone times with a sense of nostalgia, anchoring the song in a memorable and personal narrative.
The emotional journey of 'Another Classic' by Machine Gun Kelly starts with a gritty pride in his origins, expressed through a boastful choir declaring the intent to 'keep it gutter.' The repeated refrain is an anthem of solidarity, inviting listeners to join in representing Cleveland, creating a connective tissue between the artist and his audience. This sets an energetic tone for reflecting on shared experiences common to those from his hometown.
As Machine Gun Kelly dives into his verses, the listener is pulled into a story of a young artist trying to find his foothold. He touches on his struggles with acceptance and the transformation from an overlooked 'token Anglo-Saxon' to a respected figure in the music scene. There's a mix of vindication and disbelief at his ascent—contrasted by a street-level view of the world from corner store chillouts to aimlessly wandering through cityscapes with his crew. The raw narrative arcs through individual growth while keeping in tune with his grassroots.
Nostalgia takes center stage as Machine Gun Kelly reminisces about classic hip hop influences, childhood memories like Thundercats, and mundane yet cherished local hangouts. There's a reflective celebration of simpler times when joy could be found in a pack of Lunchables or playing outside until exhausted. The emotional tone transitions from the hardship and affirmation of his early hustle to a warm and almost wistful remembrance of youthful innocence and the foundational moments of his life and career.
In conclusion, the song crescendos to a finale that recognizes the passage of time. The outro's singular declaration of 'That was classic' reinforces the emotional journey — from striving within the gritty reality of his early life to achieving a status where he can confidently define what 'classic' means to him. It's an emotional acknowledgement that, despite the trappings of fame and the relentless passage of time, he can still look back fondly at the raw and real experiences that made him the artist he is today.
"rep 216, another classic"
A shout-out to Machine Gun Kelly’s origin, with 216 referring to Cleveland's area code, and 'another classic' implying either a new anthem for the city or Machine Gun Kelly considering this song as timeless as his other hits.
"I was a token Anglo-Saxon"
This line hints at Machine Gun Kelly's experience of feeling like an outsider or novelty within the hip hop community and music industry early in his career.
"Kickin' it at the corner store"
This line evokes imagery of loitering at a local convenience store, a common pastime in many urban neighborhoods, highlighting a grounded and relatable aspect of Machine Gun Kelly's upbringing.
"Little kids hollerin', 'Come out and play, mane'"
Reflecting on childhood memories, this line epitomizes the innocence and community spirit of simpler times when kids would gather outside to play together.