G Herbo Challenges DJ Akademiks & DJ Vlad to Give Back to Chicago

G Herbo Challenges DJ Akademiks & DJ Vlad to Give Back to Chicago

Chicago drill legend G Herbo is calling for more than commentary following his appearance on The Adam Friedland Show.

He acknowledged the impact that media figures like DJ Akademiks and DJ Vlad have had by profiting from Chicago’s street culture and violence—but believes they owe it to the community to give something back.

G Herbo issued a bold challenge: he wants each of them to donate $100,000 to a nonprofit in Chicago focused on youth support, education, or similar causes.

“I feel like all those guys—Akademiks, Vlad—who made money off this culture… they should donate $20,000 to $50,000—or even $100K—and write it off on their taxes,” he explained. He framed this not just as charity but a matter of accountability.

He emphasized that while he has a working relationship with these commentators, he doesn’t necessarily agree with how they present the city. His call for action is rooted in principle: if they benefit from Chicago’s pain and stories, then they should invest in its healing.

This moment isn’t just talk. G Herbo has shown a consistent commitment to his city through previous mental-health initiatives and youth programming, and now he’s putting pressure on culture brokers to do the same.

The challenge has landed—now the question remains: will anyone step up?