British guitarist Sophie Lloyd is currently touring Europe with Machine Gun Kelly, with a recent stop in Munich, Germany, according to a post on social media . The musician, who gained prominence through her YouTube channel beginning in , has become a significant figure in the rock and metal scene, and is now experiencing increased solo success.
Lloyd’s rise to international recognition began with online instrumentals, guitar reviews, and technique videos. This online presence culminated in the release of her debut EP, Delusions, in . Her breakthrough came with the release of her first solo album, Imposter Syndrome, which reached number three on the UK rock chart. The album garnered a nomination for Best Breakthrough Album at the Heavy Music Awards.
Beyond album success, Lloyd’s guitar solo “Do or Die” was ranked number two on Guitar World’s list of best guitar solos of . She recently completed her first headlining tour, selling out London’s Camden Underworld, marking a significant milestone in her solo career. Lloyd is currently working on new music and is scheduled to perform at festivals worldwide.
Lloyd’s association with Machine Gun Kelly began in , when she joined him as his touring guitarist. A recollection of a performance with MGK in Cleveland, Ohio, at MGK Day a few years prior was described by Lloyd as “genuinely one of the best days of my entire life,” noting the electric atmosphere created by the city’s enthusiasm for the artist.
The demands of touring with a high-profile artist like Machine Gun Kelly have been the subject of discussion. A recent Spotify podcast interview revealed details about life on the road, including accounts of the environment on the tour bus. The interview also touched upon a surprising incident involving Lloyd’s mother and the rapper Drake in MGK’s dressing room, though details were limited.
The interview also explored Lloyd’s personal experiences, including facing bullying at school for her “emo” style and dealing with a stalker who prompted a near-restraining order. She also discussed the challenges of performance anxiety and shared stories of onstage mishaps.
Lloyd’s journey reflects a broader trend of musicians leveraging online platforms to build a following and launch their careers. Her early success on YouTube demonstrates the power of digital media in bypassing traditional industry gatekeepers and connecting directly with audiences. This is particularly notable in the rock and metal genres, where dedicated online communities often play a crucial role in discovering and promoting emerging artists.
Her current European tour alongside Machine Gun Kelly provides a platform to reach a wider audience and further establish her presence on the international stage. The combination of her solo work and her role as a touring musician positions her as a versatile and increasingly prominent figure in contemporary rock music. The recent social media post highlighting her time in Munich suggests continued momentum and engagement with fans across the continent.
The intersection of Lloyd’s career with that of Machine Gun Kelly also highlights the evolving dynamics within the music industry. MGK, known for his genre-bending approach and willingness to collaborate with artists from diverse backgrounds, has provided a platform for Lloyd to showcase her talent to a broader audience. This collaboration underscores the increasing importance of cross-genre pollination and the blurring of lines between traditional musical categories.
While the Spotify interview alluded to a sometimes chaotic environment surrounding the MGK tour, it also revealed a human side to the life of a touring musician, addressing issues of personal safety and mental health. Lloyd’s openness about her experiences with bullying and performance anxiety may resonate with fans and contribute to a more honest and relatable portrayal of life in the music industry.
