Machine Gun Kelly is no stranger to pushing boundaries, whether blending rock and hip-hop or taking bold creative risks in his visuals. Known offstage as Colson Baker, MGK rose from Cleveland’s underground rap battles to become a GRAMMY-nominated artist with chart-topping hits like “Bloody Valentine” and “Bad Things.” Now, with the release of his latest single “Vampire Diary,” he’s turning heads once again, this time by channeling none other than the King of Pop himself.
The music video for “Vampire Diary” is a gothic, cinematic spectacle set inside the majestic halls of the Natural History Museum in Los Angeles. As MGK prowls through dimly lit galleries filled with ancient relics and towering dinosaur skeletons, the eerie setting creates the perfect backdrop for a hauntingly stylish homage. But what truly steals the spotlight is how unmistakably inspired the visuals and choreography are by Michael Jackson.
MGK dons a slick suit accented by striking red gloves, immediately reminiscent of Michael’s iconic wardrobe. The choreography throughout is a clear salute to MJ’s legendary performance of “Dangerous” at the 1995 MTV Music Awards, with crisp isolations, sharp footwork, and theatrical flair that would make any Michael Jackson fan smile. In one electrifying moment, MGK even glides backward in a nearly flawless moonwalk, an unmistakable tribute that cements his reverence for Michael’s unparalleled stage presence.
Adding even more depth to the homage is the choice of choreographer. Sean Bankhead, the brilliant mind behind Victoria Monét’s viral “Alright” routine (which itself honored MJ), crafted the dynamic sequences in “Vampire Diary.” Bankhead’s deep understanding of Michael’s dance language infuses every movement with authenticity, blending nostalgia with a modern twist that feels both fresh and timeless. Looking deeper, Bankead is also behind the MJ-like tributes from Lil Naz X performance at the BET Awards 2021 and the music video “J Christ” in 2024 featuring a Michael Jackson Impersonator.
It’s clear that “Vampire Diary” is more than just another edgy MGK music video. It’s a love letter to Michael Jackson’s enduring influence on artists across genres and generations. By threading together the moody, nocturnal vibe of a vampire tale with the electric energy of MJ-inspired dance, Machine Gun Kelly and Sean Bankhead have delivered a tribute that feels both personal and universally resonant. For fans of the King of Pop, it’s a thrilling reminder that Michael’s magic is alive and well—moonwalking right through the corridors of today’s music scene.
Have a look:
