Machine Gun Kelly has made waves again with the release of his new album, Lost Americana. This album brings fresh energy to the music scene and includes a standout track called “Starman,” which creatively samples the 90s hit band Third Eye Blind. MGK fans and new listeners alike are excited to dive into these new sounds that mix old influences with modern beats.
Adding to the buzz, ESPN has chosen another track from the album, “Don’t Wait Run Fast,” as the official anthem for the 2025–2026 college football season. This choice connects MGK’s music to sports fans across America, giving the album even more visibility and setting the tone for an exciting football year ahead.
Lost Americana: A New Chapter for Machine Gun Kelly
Lost Americana marks a significant shift in Machine Gun Kelly’s music style. Unlike his recent pop-punk releases, this album has a more reflective and raw feel. It combines storytelling with dynamic instrumentals, drawing listeners into MGK’s personal experiences and artistic growth.
The track “Starman” stands out with its catchy use of a Third Eye Blind sample, mixing nostalgia with modern vibes. Third Eye Blind is known for hits like “Semi-Charmed Life,” and their influence adds a unique touch to MGK’s new music. This clever blend has been well-received by critics and fans, highlighting MGK’s ability to evolve while respecting music history.
“Don’t Wait Run Fast” Becomes ESPN’s College Football Anthem
ESPN’s selection of “Don’t Wait Run Fast” as the college football anthem for the 2025–2026 season is a major highlight for Machine Gun Kelly. This upbeat track perfectly matches the energy and excitement of college football, inspiring fans and players alike. It’s rare for a song to capture the spirit of a sport season, and ESPN’s choice speaks to the song’s motivational rhythm and lyrics.
With college football being one of the most popular sports in the United States, having an anthem on ESPN gives Lost Americana wide exposure. The partnership helps bring MGK’s music to a new audience that may not have been familiar with his recent work. Sports and music often go hand in hand, and this collaboration is a great example of that.
How Lost Americana Reflects MGK’s Artistic Growth
Machine Gun Kelly has been through many changes in his career, evolving from a rap artist to a versatile musician exploring rock, punk, and beyond. Lost Americana is a reflection of this journey. The album features personal lyrics and authentic storytelling, connecting deeply with listeners who appreciate real emotions and experiences in music.
Many tracks on Lost Americana dive into themes of hope, struggle, and self-discovery, making it relatable to younger audiences navigating their own lives. According to Rolling Stone, MGK’s ability to blend genres and experiment with sounds keeps him relevant and respected in the music industry (source).
Fans’ Reactions and Critical Reception
The response to Lost Americana has been mostly positive among fans and critics. Music reviewers praise MGK for taking risks with his sound and for creating an album that feels genuine. The sample of Third Eye Blind’s work in “Starman” has also been called a smart move, bridging different musical generations.
Billboard reports that the album’s success is likely to bring MGK back into the spotlight, not only as a musician but as an influencer in the music world (source). For listeners, Lost Americana offers a mix of catchy rhythms and meaningful lyrics, perfect for anyone looking for new and exciting music.
Why “Don’t Wait Run Fast” is Perfect for College Football
The high energy and driving beat of “Don’t Wait Run Fast” make it an excellent fit for college football games, where adrenaline and excitement run high. The song’s message encourages action and persistence, traits that resonate both on and off the field.
ESPN’s decision to use this track as their anthem connects the sports and music industries in a way that enhances the fan experience. According to ESPN’s official announcement, the song was chosen after careful consideration of its ability to capture the high stakes and passion of college football (source).
Looking Forward: What’s Next for Machine Gun Kelly?
With Lost Americana and the college football anthem in place, Machine Gun Kelly’s career is poised for a strong year ahead. The album’s mix of old-school influences and new sounds shows that MGK is not afraid to take chances and push boundaries.
Fans can expect more innovative music and exciting collaborations as MGK continues to evolve. His connection to major events like college football also opens the door to more opportunities in entertainment outside of music. For young audiences, MGK remains a figure who blends authenticity with creativity, making his work worth following.
