Jack Harlow is the Tyler Herro of the rap game. Tyler Herro is the Jack Harlow of NBA basketball. Conceptually, this song idea works perfectly.
Allow me to explain why the two are such a good match…
Both Harlow and Herro, at first glance, may not “fit the part” of a rapper or an NBA superstar. Comically, Harlow acknowledges this in the track. In just the first line, Harlow remarks “The ones that hate me the most look just like me, you tell me what that means”. They also both have roots in Kentucky and are slept on in their respective industries. This is despite obvious talent, vibrant personalities, and flashes of brilliance.
Kentucky Roots
Akin to Drake’s consistent acknowledgment of his Toronto upbringing, Jack Harlow has proudly represented his hometown of Louisville since day one. He acknowledges this in interviews, freestyles, and a majority of his songs. He seems to be pushing a movement, influenced by himself and fellow Louisville superstar Bryson Tiller. Harlow himself has referred to Tiller as a “hero” and “brother” of his.
Herro, a Wisconsin native, earned all-SEC and all-freshman honors in his 2018-19 one and done year at Kentucky. He averaged 14 points per game and was a key scorer in their elite eight tournament run.
Jack Harlow and Tyler Herro- The Come Up
Both Jack Harlow and Herro are known for being cocky as anyone. Harlow’s internationally popular track “What’s Poppin” illustrates Jack as braggadocious and crude, while Herro famously snarled after scoring a tough bucket in this year’s NBA finals against Los Angeles.
However, many have seen Harlow as an insult to the rap game, calling him corny and repetitive. Basketball fans have criticized Herro’s on-court swagger, outrageous outfits, skinny frame and more. That said, both seem to provide a spark of fun and excitement many can only aspire to in their respective industries.
Bottom Line
In the way I see it, this song is more self-aware and fun than it is corny or cringeworthy. However, I understand the lack of appreciation for some of Harlow’s more comical lines. This includes the bar “Five white boys but they not N’Sync”, along with “Now I’m in the box like a Kellogs Toy”. I understand interpretations of this as unoriginal and unexciting, but I appreciated the witty lyricism and flows on this track.
In conclusion, this track is all I expected it to be. Harlow, known for his flow, delivers in terms of verse and vocals, but the loop is a bit dull and repetitive after several listens.
You can love Jack Harlow and Tyler Herro, and you can hate Jack Harlow and Tyler Herro. Regardless, they’re here to stay and grow for a long time. Rating: 7.75/10.
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