Chicago rapper G Herbo has been enjoying a meteoric rise in the music industry. His latest album, 25 topped the Billboard charts and earned critical acclaim. However, behind the scenes, he is coping with a devastating loss. The death of his close friend and fellow rapper Gregory Jackson III, better known as Lil Greg, has shaken him to his core.
Lil Greg was shot and killed at a barbershop in Chicago on Jan. 28, 2024, in what police suspect was a targeted attack. He was only 22 years old and had a bright future ahead of him as a talented artist. He had collaborated with G Herbo on several songs, including “4 Minutes of Hell Pt. 5”, which showcased their raw and authentic style.
G Herbo, who grew up with Lil Greg in the South Side of Chicago, was heartbroken by the news of his friend’s murder. He took to Instagram to share an emotional tribute, where he posted a picture of them together and wrote:
“I LOVE YOU LIL BRO I PROMISE IMA MAKE YOU PROUD I PROMISE IMA MAKE YOU SMILE I PROMISE IMA KEEP YOU ALIVE FOREVER”.
The post went viral. It garnered over a million likes and thousands of comments from fans and fellow artists. They expressed their condolences and support. Many praised G Herbo for his loyalty and dedication to his friend. They also praised him for keeping his friend’s memory alive through his music.
G Herbo also opened up about his grief and trauma in an exclusive podcast episode with Lil Greg’s father, Big Greg, on his YouTube channel titled “What The World Doesn’t Know About My Child.” In the candid and emotional interview, G Herbo tearfully recounted the bond he shared with Lil Greg and how he has been coping with the loss.
He said that he felt like he had lost a part of himself and that he still struggles with the reality of his friend’s death. He also said that he tries to channel his pain into a source of strength and use his platform to inspire and help others who have gone through similar tragedies.
He said:
“I know Lil Greg is watching over me, and he wants me to keep going and make him proud. He was like a brother to me, and I will never forget him. He was among the realest and most talented people I ever met, and I’m honored to have known and worked with him. I hope his music lives on and touches people’s hearts because he had so much to offer to the world.”
Lil Greg’s death is one of the many cases of gun violence that plague Chicago. The city has been dubbed the “murder capital” of the US. According to the Chicago Tribune, more than 4,000 people were shot, and over 700 were killed in 2023. This made it one of the deadliest years on record. The majority of the victims were young black men. They often fall prey to the cycle of poverty, gangs, and violence that afflicts many neighborhoods.
The city has been struggling to curb the bloodshed, with various initiatives and interventions from the government, the police, the community, and celebrities. However, the problem persists, and many families and friends are left to mourn the loss of their loved ones.
G Herbo is one of the few who escaped the violence and made a name for himself in the music industry. He has not forgotten his roots or his friends. He has been using his voice and influence to raise awareness and advocate for change. He also uses his platform to honor and celebrate the lives of those who were taken too soon.
He said:
“I’m not going to let the violence define me or my city. I’m going to keep making music that speaks to the people and the struggles they face. I will keep spreading love and positivity and fighting for a better future. And I will keep Lil Greg in my heart and mind because he was more than a friend; he was family. And family never dies.”
