A Review of Foot On Ya Neck: A ghetto lullaby… (Ghetto Lullaby’s) by KILLmonger
When I stumbled upon Foot On Ya Neck, it felt like fate. The title alone—bold and audacious—beckoned me to explore a world layered with grit and raw emotion. KILLmonger, renowned for merging clever pop culture references with profound social commentary, has crafted a collection that is not only poetic but also a wake-up call to our reality.
From the very first poem, it’s evident that KILLmonger’s voice is unruly yet captivating, pulling you into a universe steeped in both personal struggle and communal resilience. The collection revolves around themes of injustice, identity, and the indomitable spirit of those living on society’s margins. It’s an exploration of the “ghetto lullaby”—a term that evokes both the pain and beauty of marginalized narratives. The author intertwines modern vocabulary with elements reminiscent of childhood games, like Mortal Kombat, creating a bridge between nostalgia and pressing societal issues.
The standout feature of KILLmonger’s poetry is undoubtedly his use of the ABC style poems, which a fellow reader highlighted beautifully. Each word feels deliberate, a carefully placed stone in a larger mosaic that represents the community he draws from. The pacing is rhythmic, almost musical, transforming reads into a spoken-word experience. I found myself wanting to pause and digest each piece, relishing the clever wordplay and the emotional weight behind every line.
One of my favorites, “Mansa Musa,” encapsulates the blend of history and self-awareness that KILLmonger employs so skillfully. The juxtaposition of past and present creates a haunting reflection on legacy and power. Another gem, “Bow to Your King,” provokes contemplation about authority and submission—a theme so relevant today. Lines that resonate with urgency make you stop and ponder the sentiments they evoke. As Chris Schneider mentions, this collection does "pull no punches," and it’s true. KILLmonger is unafraid to tackle the harsh truths of our world head-on, delivering his verses with an energy that resonates long after you’ve put the book down.
In a mere 60 pages, Foot On Ya Neck is a quick read, but it never skimps on depth or insight. It’s an engaging and thought-provoking collection that invites dialogue and reflection, something I didn’t expect when I first picked it up.
This book is a must-read for those interested in political poetry and anyone looking to understand the complexities of contemporary Black experiences. It resonates deeply with both younger audiences and seasoned poetry lovers, creating a space for connection and conversation. It impacted me personally by reminding me of the importance of voice, of expression that isn’t just artistic, but a lifeline.
In a world that often tries to silence these narratives, KILLmonger’s work embodies a bold resilience. If you’re looking for poetry that challenges the status quo while bringing you back to your roots, Foot On Ya Neck is the ghetto lullaby you didn’t know you needed. Grab a copy and let the rhythm of resistance wash over you.
You can find Foot On Ya Neck: A ghetto lullaby… (Ghetto Lullaby’s) here >>