Roc Block is a nickname embraced by the NLMB gang, commemorating their member Jamal 'Roc' Harris, who was tragically murdered. Roc Block specifically denotes the area of 79th and Essex in Chicago, Illinois. This location is intrinsically linked to well-known rap artists Lil Bibby and Lil Herb, who have articulated the significance of Roc Block in interviews: “We hail from 79th and Essex ‘Roc Block,’ named after my brother Roc (RIP). That’s the neighborhood where we all grew up.” The area is officially known as Terror Town, but for the NLMB, it is forever Roc Block—an embodiment of their motto, Never Leave My Brothers.
Gang Traditions in Chicago
In Chicago, it is a prevalent tradition for gangs to bestow nicknames upon blocks to honor their departed members. This practice serves as a poignant reminder of their legacy and influence. Notable examples include JoJo World, O'Block, and Tookaville, each named in memory of fallen members who left a significant mark on their communities.