G Herbo – Lil Herb: Lil Heroin Edition (Album Review)

Street lessons and personal growth drive “Lil Herb: Lil Heroine Edition.”

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TOP 5 SONGS

Honorable Mention. Thug

Let’s be real: the biggest selling point of this track is the production. It takes some serious confidence to rework Bone Thugs-N-Harmony’s “Thuggish Ruggish Bone,” especially with a drill-inspired twist. Unfortunately, G Herbo doesn’t lean into the harmonies or rapid-fire flows that made the original so memorable. Instead, he delivers a performance that feels a little rough around the edges, sounding like he’s constantly catching himself right before stumbling. That said, he sounds completely comfortable embracing the thug persona throughout.

5. DND (Ft. Ty Dolla $ign)

As someone who can’t stand rap, I tend to lean toward tracks with R&B elements, and “DND” fits that lane. In the track, Ty Dolla $ign delivers a strong, memorable chorus, with the latter half of it really standing out. Herbo brings more intensity than I expected, but I enjoy when he tones it down and slips into that laid-back, player energy. Lyrically, he fits the vibe well, sounding like someone living lavishly and moving carefree on a boat surrounded by women.

4. Steel

“Steel” will remind you that G Herbo is likely to be remembered as one of the stronger rappers over soulful beats. Even with a crying, haunting sample layered through the beat, he maintains his focus and doesn’t get pulled away from the rhythm. Lyrically, he reflects on betrayal and the people who switched up on him. Deadass, closing my eyes while listening to this track made a major difference.

3. Because of You

Transitioning from “Steel” into “Because of You” hits like a tonal shift you can feel immediately. G Herbo’s flow isn’t always locked into the beat on this one, but the honesty in his lyrics keeps it grounded. He reflects on missing his family and navigating mental strain, which gives the track a more personal edge.

The production, though, is undeniable. The dreamy arrangement and soulful sample work together to create a floating, melancholic atmosphere that suits the theme perfectly. It’s really what had me sold.

2. How Can I Lose

One of the first things I thought while listening to “How Can I Lose” was how much it reminded me of “Never Change” by JAY-Z. Both songs lean heavily into soulful production and reflective themes.

Lyrically, G Herbo is in his comfort zone here. He reflects on his difficult past, acknowledges the obstacles he’s overcome, and expresses appreciation for the position he’s in today. The authenticity in his writing is easy to hear.

If I have one complaint, it’s that I wish his vocals carried a little more personality. There are moments where the delivery feels almost too relaxed. Fortunately, his dependable flow keeps everything together and ensures the song never loses momentum.

Overall, “How Can I Lose” feels like classic G Herbo: honest bars, real experiences, and soulful production coming together effectively.

1. Mad People

The lyrics on “Mad People” are real as hell. I like how G Herbo calls out the people he’s been taking care of, something a lot of listeners can probably relate to in some way. Toward the end, he also starts talking his s**t more directly, backing up how consistent he’s stayed over the past few years.

The combination of Herbo’s bulldozing delivery and the gripping production makes for some s**t that sounds riveting as hell.

SONG BY SONG RATING

1. I Did (3.5/5)

2. Thug (3.5/5)

3. Go (3.5/5)

4. Swerv n Nem (3.5/5)

5. Neva Going Back (3.5/5)

6. Outta Bounds (Ft. Polo G & Big Opp (4/5)

7. Mad People (4/5)

8. Brown Skin (Ft. Skilla Baby) (3.5/5)

9. DND (Ft. Ty Dolla $ign) (4/5)

10. Prayers (3.5/5)

11. End of the Tunnel (Ft. YK Dee) (4/5)

12. Story of a Thug (3.5/5)

13. Steel (4/5)

14. Because of You (4/5)

15. I Tried (3.5/5)

16. October Thoughts (3/5)

17. How Can I Lose (4/5)

RGM RATING

(74%)

If G Herbo had marketed Lil Herb: Lil Heroine Edition as a brand-new album, nobody would have questioned it. With 18 tracks, the project offers more than enough material to stand on its own.

What stands out most is how well Herbo understands his strengths. He spends the project discussing familiar themes like surviving difficult circumstances, staying loyal to street principles, enjoying success, and coping with the lingering effects of trauma. None of these topics are new territory for him, but they feel more refined and thoughtfully presented this time around.

Performance-wise, Herbo gives listeners a little bit of everything. There are stretches where he sounds raw, unpredictable, and almost reckless, but there are just as many moments where he sounds focused, hungry, and fully invested in telling his story. Those are often the strongest parts of the project.

The production is another plus, especially when it leans into soulful territory. Those beats bring out some of Herbo’s most satisfying performances. If I had one complaint, it would be that some of the darker, more sinister moments don’t land as effectively as the reflective ones. Still, the project succeeds as an engaging listen and a strong showcase of Herbo’s evolution.