Users Say MGK 'Ruined' George Michael's 'Last Christmas' with His 'Rock' Cover in 'A Motown Christmas' - Video

The singer, who was an advisor on "The Voice" season 26, performed on the two-hour holiday special show on December 11, 2024.

Machine Gun Kelly's (MGK) performance of "Last Christmas" on NBC's "A Motown Christmas" sparked backlash, with many criticizing his rendition and questioning why he was chosen to perform.

MGK took the stage with braided hair, multiple ear piercings, and a silver necklace adorning his neck. He wore wide-leg black pants featuring hanging chains and white flame-like embroidery, paired with a black shirt left open to reveal his tattooed chest. As he performed on "A Motown Christmas," MGK played the guitar and danced energetically, singing into the microphone.

Fans had a lot to say about MGK's rock rendition of "Last Christmas." The song was first released on December 3, 1984. It was written and performed by George Michael as part of the iconic British duo Wham! Fans' reactions to MGK's version ranged from harsh critiques to rare praise, with many unable to hold back their opinions.

One fan didn't mince words, writing, "Sorry but it's a pop song not a country rock song." Another was baffled by the performance's vibe, remarking, "Saw that 'Motown Christmas' was playing on NBC and it was MGK performing a pop punk cover of Last Christmas."

Criticism of MGK's interpretation of the iconic song poured in, with one conflicted viewer noting, "I personally don't pick too much at Last Christmas covers but how in the world did MGK make it so...soulless, and sanitized (which is a strange word in this case, but just feels right to use)? I'm screaming! Smokey is still absolutely amazing btw."

Some were even questioning his presence at the event, "Nothing against MGK but really?! Why would he need to perform at a Motown Christmas? Y’all had no other Motown legends to perform Christmas songs or any other black singers?"

Another user pointed out the mismatched aesthetics, "Now why is MGK on MOTOWN Christmas playing an acoustic guitar rock version of Last Christmas and wearing cornrows….what is going on."

The disapproval didn't stop there, with one fan begging, "Omg make it stop," and another declaring "It was terrible." One viewer simply said, "Nope, ruined it," while another was more blunt, exclaiming, "How disgraceful!"

Some fans took issue with his singing style, saying, "Why he's [sic] singing this song so fast," and one frustrated fan even declared, "George Michael did not die for this." Another observant fan added, to the criticism, "Ever vid I see him disgracing another song that isn't his [sic]."

While the criticism was relentless, there were glimmers of appreciation amidst the chaos. A fan praised Machine Gun Kelly's effort: "It’s perfect 🤩 and the dancing 🕺." Another chimed in with positivity: "Officially the best cover of Last Christmas! 🎄" And finally, someone simply stated, "Loved it 🖤."

The hits played at "A Motown Christmas" have been a staple in American homes for over eighty years. Jen Neal, Executive Vice President of Live Events & Specials at NBCUniversal Entertainment emphasized NBC's pride in celebrating Motown's legendary legacy with a festive holiday special.

Typically, a Motown celebration features classic hits such as "Tears of a Clown," "Superstition," "My Girl," "Dancing in the Streets," "Stop (In the Name of Love)," "ABC," "I Heard It Through the Grapevine," "Ain't No Mountain High Enough," and "Reach Out (I'll Be There)."

This year's "A Motown Christmas" was co-hosted by Smokey Robinson and Halle Bailey. It showcased performances from a stellar lineup of artists, including Ashanti, Andra Day, BeBe Winans, Jamie Foxx, JoJo, October London, MGK, Pentatonix, Jordin Sparks, and the cast of the Broadway show "MJ The Musical."

Motown legends such as Gladys Knight, Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, and The Temptations also delivered unforgettable performances. The 11-piece live band for "A Motown Christmas" was conducted by Emmy Award-winning musical director Rickey Minor.

Halle also delivered a selection of songs paying homage to Diana Ross and the Supremes, while Jamie Foxx spearheaded a tribute to Stevie Wonder’s timeless hits with BeBe Winans, Jordin Sparks, and Andra Day. October London and JoJo celebrated the legacy of the late Marvin Gaye.

Andra Day performed a special tribute to Berry Gordy, the founder of Motown Records, who wrote and produced many hit songs. Meanwhile, MGK sang a new rendition of "Last Christmas," which has sparked talks online.

For now, MGK is focused on his next big project, a new album. He posted on X, "Majority of what consumes my mind is the album, but what is the album."

He also made another post, writing, "Isolating myself in the desert next week to restart this album from scratch. when inspiration flows through me unblocked, we will reach the destination in no time. don’t worry. after all, im about to be a dad again! [sic]."

Evidently, MGK's dedication to his craft remains unwavering as he works on his upcoming album. With his focus solely on creating high-quality music, he continues to prioritize his work while embracing the personal milestones ahead.