The Hit Directory

If you’re the kind of person who’s been doomscrolling, rage texting, and trying not to lose your mind while the world keeps getting more cartoonishly evil, Skinny for the Apocalypse (aka Kiirstin Marilyn) just dropped a song that feels like it was made for you to scream into the void with.

Kiirstin Marilyn writes about politics with purpose. She’s an artist and activist involved in NYC organizing, working with groups like the Democratic Socialists of America, climate accountability campaigns, and urging leaders like Governor Hochul to take action. As a founding member of Red Rogue Theater, she uses performance to protest and advocates for accessible vegan and animal rights within DSA. Essentially, she’s not just sharing slogans; she’s doing the difficult work.

And “Free Luigi” comes from a real place.

The song started as a response to the arrest of Briana Boston, and the rage behind it is so specific you can feel it. Kiirstin has discussed hypocrisy that set her off, how the healthcare industry can normalize language and policies that destroy people’s lives, but the second that same energy is aimed back at them, suddenly it’s “unacceptable.” That anger is the spark, but the song grows bigger than the moment. Luigi stops being one person and turns into a symbol, like a protest sign you can hold up for every broken system at once.

The opening lyrics hit immediately: “Now they see they should have never fucked with us. You can’t take everything from us and expect us not to break.”

That’s not just a line. That’s a whole mood. It’s the sound of people who have been pushed and pushed and pushed and are finally realizing they’re not alone in their anger.

Musically, “Free Luigi” is a stroke of genius that defies expectations. Instead of opting for the clichéd scream, it weaves a tapestry of lush vocal melodies with a spirited ukulele leading the charge, crafting an ambiance that feels confrontational yet profoundly alluring. It doesn’t seek to intimidate you; rather, it yearns to awaken your senses and jolt you from complacency. The playful ukulele dances against the pulsating rhythm, creating a captivating tension that draws you in irresistibly. Her vocals are raw and urgent, a voice drenched in authenticity that resonates with vulnerability and strength. It’s as if she’s pouring her very soul into your ears. When the horns surge in, they unleash a wave of adrenaline, adding a vibrant layer that amplifies the energy and propels the song into a dynamic and invigorating sonic landscape, leaving listeners exhilarated and eager to embrace the powerful message woven seamlessly into the sound.

And then halfway through, the song cracks open. The full band locks in, the energy spikes, and it turns into the kind of moment you can picture happening live, with people yelling the words back like it’s a chant.

By the end, the title “Free Luigi” represents more than one person. It symbolizes government violence, corruption, billionaire power, and a reality where survival is a privilege. It’s a protest song that truly captures the essence of protest. It builds up, escalates, and transforms frustration into action.

Put it on in your headphones, let it echo through your soul as you stride down the street, and immerse yourself in its energy while you fight to stay whole. This is the anthem that ignites your spirit, reminding you that anger fuels transformation, community thrives, and the people possess an undeniable power!

Listen to “Free Luigi” on all streaming platforms.