G Herbo’s ‘Big Swerv’: Navigating Street Life, Trauma, and Redemption in the Eerie World of ‘Candyman

By: I'ja Marie

Chicago’s own G Herbo has returned to the rap scene with his highly anticipated album, "Big Swerv," a project that showcases his lyrical prowess and vulnerability while navigating the trials of street life, success, and personal loss. In true Herbo fashion, Big Swerv balances gritty narratives with moments of reflection, offering fans a comprehensive look into his world. Among the standout tracks on the album is the hauntingly introspective "Candyman," which has now received an equally eerie and visually striking music video.

The music video for "Candyman," directed by Diamond Visuals, expertly mirrors the haunting atmosphere of the track. Shot through a dark, red-tinted lens, the video feels like a visual homage to the classic Chicago-set horror movie Candyman—and the connection runs deeper than just its eerie aesthetics. In the video, Herbo roams through dimly lit streets and abandoned buildings, confronting his fears and ghosts of the past, much like the character of Candyman himself. It’s as if Herbo is challenging the demons that have followed him throughout his career, both literally and figuratively.

The choice to lean into the horror theme is no accident. Chicago, often referred to as “Chiraq” for its violent reputation, serves as the perfect backdrop for this metaphor. Herbo, much like the mythological figure of Candyman, is a product of his environment, constantly haunted by loss, trauma, and the violence surrounding him. The visual’s use of shadows, flickering lights, and foreboding imagery makes you feel the weight of Herbo’s confession—he’s not just a rapper, but someone deeply affected by his past and the streets that raised him.

Musically, "Candyman" offers a sonic departure from the more upbeat tracks on Big Swerv. like "Ten" featuring St. Louis rap artist Sexyy Red, "In The A". While "Big Swerv" as a whole displays Herbo’s ability to move between raw street anthems and personal reflections with tracks like “No Pics” featuring Chicago's own Chief Keef and “Shoot” with Detroit artist Skilla Baby keeps Herbo's album grounded in drill roots, and the inclusion of other rising stars like Baby Drill and Rob49 adds to the project’s wide-ranging appeal, showcasing that Herbo is still deeply connected to the streets while evolving as an artist.

The Wrap Up
Big Swerv is an album that pushes G Herbo’s artistry to new heights. The "Candyman" music video is more than just a visual accompaniment—it’s a metaphorical journey through the darkness of Herbo’s mind and the realities of life in Chicago. In blending elements of horror, street storytelling, and personal confession, Herbo has created a track and video that stands out not only for its creative direction but for its emotional depth. As he continues to grow in both fame and maturity, G Herbo proves once again that he’s a voice that can’t be ignored in the world of hip-hop. Stream his latest project below and make sure to add things to your preferred streaming platform.