"Machine Gun Kelly" is a song by James Taylor, released in 1971 on his album "Mud Slide Slim and the Blue Horizon." The song tells the story of the infamous American gangster George "Machine Gun" Kelly and his wife, Kathryn. Machine Gun Kelly, born George Barnes in 1895, was a notorious criminal during the Prohibition era. He gained his nickname due to his use of a Thompson submachine gun during robberies. The song portrays Machine Gun Kelly as a simple man who fell under the influence of his ambitious and tough-minded wife, Kathryn. The lyrics warn Machine Gun Kelly not to let his wife control him completely and not to let her lead him to ruin. The line "don't let the woman put you six feet in the ground" highlights the danger that Kathryn poses to his life. Kathryn Kelly, often referred to as "Machine Gun Mama," plays a significant role in the song. Tired of their small-time criminal activities, the couple plans to kidnap a wealthy man's son to elevate themselves in the world of crime. The lyrics suggest that Kathryn is the driving force behind this plan. James Taylor warns Machine Gun Kelly to be cautious and not blindly follow his wife's ambitions. The line "If you keep listening to your old lady, ain't no telling what'll happen to you" advises him to make wise choices to avoid potential consequences. The story takes a turn when the government arrests Machine Gun Kelly, separating him from Kathryn. He is sent to Leavenworth prison, where he spends the rest of his life. The lyrics imply that it was Kathryn's influence that led to their downfall. Overall, "Machine Gun Kelly" emphasizes the dangers of allowing oneself to be controlled by someone else's ambitions and the consequences that can result from such a relationship.
