Talib Kweli - Shock Body

“Shock Body” is the fourth track on Talib Kweli’s 2002 solo-release, Quality.

Produced by DJ Scratch, “Shock Body” shines brightly even though there are several other hits scattered across this album, including “Guerrilla Monsoon Rap” and “Get By”, both produced by Kanye West.

Like a body-builder victoriously flexing his swollen bicep in a championship contest, Kweli skillfully moves through this tongue-twister of a song with a contagious confidence that is hard not to love. Combine that with a beat that seems like a no-brainer once you hear where the sample’s from, and you have a recipe for success.

Here’s an album-cover-video of “Shock Body”. Below it are some of my favorite bars in the song.

Martin Luther King had a dream to it, people cling to it, I seen your momma lean to it in a green Buick.

I MC with the truest in the game. I stay hungry like I’m the newest in the game, And stay hot like I’m bluish with the flame. You heard the truth when it came, And you knew it was the name that you couldn’t pronounce. Now, I’m all up in your mouth.

I’m blowing their minds wide open when I’m flowing divine. My whole style banging like I’m throwing up signs.

I live life to the fullest cause I know I could die right now. I dont believe I know and decide my fate, So just go on and ride, and when I’m going goodbye, You gonna see a rainbow in the sky, And my momma’s face glowing with pride. Her first born held it down, And through my baby’s soul I survive.

✌️