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Rappers King Louie and Lil Herb: Don't be judgmental; there’s more to Chicago than crime and violence

By Ashahed M. Muhammad -Assistant Editor- | Last updated: Jan 23, 2015 - 11:09:23 AM

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Although Hip Hop is often criticized for its perceived glorification of sex, violence, guns and drugs, it is easy to forget that many of the most popular artists are fathers, brothers, husbands and many of them are young teenagers themselves in search of mentors and guidance.

King Louie (also known as King L) is a major figure in Chicago’s music scene, but you might not know that his participation is also major in the “Put The Guns Down” movement. This is being done in the city that many have dubbed “Chiraq” because of its resemblance to a war zone, and many seem to have written off large swaths of the city’s South and West Sides.

19-year-old Lil Herb (also known as G Herbo) grew up in a notoriously violent area in Chicago known as “Terror Town.” He represents an important segment of the youth who find that the elders in many cases criticize and berate young people, instead of delivering wise counsel based on their experiences. All the youth want is for someone to listen to them without being judgmental.

These two artists are known for describing the gritty tales of what is happening in their city, in their neighborhoods and on their blocks.

You will often hear it wildly publicized when rappers are doing wrong, but an effort should also be made to applaud them when they are doing something right, such as raising awareness related to inner-city wealth discrepancies and joblessness or participating in anti-violence efforts.

Interview with King Louie | Interview with Lil Herb