All signs now point to G Herbo being the next big thing in Chicago rap. This year, the 19-year-old South Shore native changed his name from Lil Herb, signed to Cinematic Music (the label home to Mick Jenkins and Big K.R.I.T.) and today released a new mixtape called “Ballin’ Like I’m Kobe.”
Spanning 14 tracks (16 if you count the two bonus songs), the tape boasts beats from C-Sick, Southside, Austin Millz, DP Beatz and more along with collaborations from local heroes Lil Bibby, Lil Durk, The Mind and more. DJ L serves as album producer while Mikkey Halsted executive produced. It’s uncompromising and raw, with gritty lyrical dexterity (see opener “L’s” line, “In the streets, ditchin’ school, murder, drugs around me/Rappin’ it just found me, thank God it wasn’t in county”) and pummeling, drill-flavored sounds. On early listens, his collaborations with former RedEye cover star Lil Bibby (“Don’t Worry” and “Gang”) are the best of the bunch.
All in all, it’s a reminder why the artist now known as G Herbo such an exciting new act and it makes it clear his future is bright. Listen and download “Ballin’ Like I’m Kobe” below.
jterry@redeyechicago.com, @joshhterry
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