With mental slavery, the shackles is loose
And its hard to cut chains when they attached at the roots

from Shad – Brother Lyrics on Rap Genius

Shad is speaking about the stereotypes and image that many young Black Americans feel they have to conform to. “Chains” and “roots” refers to the history of African-Americans as slaves, as well as creating a vivid metaphor.

To help improve the meaning of these lyrics, visit "Brother" by Shad Lyrics and leave a comment on the lyrics box