10/10/2022

G HERBO, SURVIVOR’S REMORSE

Survivor’s Remorse: G Herbo’s Double-Sided Reflection

G Herbo first announced Survivor’s Remorse via Instagram, catching many by surprise—not just because a new project was on the horizon, but because it turned out to be a double album. The Chicago rapper had only just released 25 the previous July, and fans didn’t expect another body of work so soon, let alone one with such scope. Formerly known as Lil Herb, G Herbo has been rapping since 2010, a milestone he references on “Him,” the tenth track on Side B.

When it was revealed that Survivor’s Remorse would be split into two parts, some questioned the decision. In a time where most artists release music in compact formats for streaming efficiency, a staggered double album feels unconventional—especially in hip-hop. Yet, in Herbo’s case, the format proves effective. Fans had three days to absorb Side A before Side B arrived, allowing space to reflect on the music and its messages.

Side A set the tone with deeply personal subject matter, featuring guest appearances from artists like Benny the Butcher, Gunna, Future, and Offset. Herbo blends gritty street narratives with introspection, exploring trauma, growth, and survival while experimenting with diverse sounds.

Side B continues in a similar vein, though the sonic variety becomes even more pronounced. “History,” the album’s most distinctly drill-inspired track, reaffirms Herbo’s roots in the subgenre he helped popularize. Interestingly, it follows “Sleepless Nights,” a track that sounds sonically different but shares thematic similarities. On both songs, Herbo speaks candidly about insomnia, adaptation, and the lingering effects of PTSD—a condition he previously addressed on his 2020 project of the same name. These recurring themes suggest that Herbo’s intent is not just to entertain, but to communicate, process, and heal.

Both sides of the album feature strong guest contributions. Side A includes Jeremih, Offset, Future, Benny the Butcher, and Gunna, while Side B brings in A Boogie wit da Hoodie, Young Thug, Conway the Machine, and Kodak Black. The project closes with “Letter to Juice,” a heartfelt tribute to his late friend Juice WRLD. Notably, Herbo’s two sons are also credited on the album, emphasizing the personal nature of the project.

Tracks like “Change (Gun Shots)” and “Me, Myself & I” explore Herbo’s past struggles with drug use, and his journey toward fatherhood, stability, and self-betterment. On “Me, Myself & I,” A Boogie wit da Hoodie’s melodic approach complements Herbo’s raw delivery, creating a reflective moment about mistrust in the industry and personal growth. Likewise, “Breathe Slow,” featuring Young Thug, builds on similar themes with emotional nuance.

Collaborations with artists like Benny the Butcher and Conway the Machine elevate the album even further. While Herbo and Benny had worked together before, “Machines”—featuring Conway—is a standout moment, blending lyrical intensity with a sound distinct from the rest of the project.

Survivor’s Remorse is a defining chapter in G Herbo’s catalog. Whether fans gravitate toward the raw drill sound or the more introspective, melodic cuts, one thing is clear: Herbo’s confidence and authenticity remain unmatched. His ability to channel pain, experiment with sound, and deliver sharp verses proves his position in the rap world is not only secure—it’s still evolving. At just 27, G Herbo continues to grow as both an artist and a storyteller.