Pop Smoke, born Bashar Barakah Jackson on July 20, 1999, in Brooklyn, New York, was a rising force in the world of hip-hop and drill music. Known for his deep, gravelly voice and signature Brooklyn drill sound, Pop Smoke brought a fresh energy to the genre, quickly becoming one of the most influential young artists of his time. Although his life was tragically cut short, his impact on music and culture continues to resonate deeply with fans and artists around the world.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Pop Smoke was raised in Canarsie, a neighborhood in Brooklyn. The son of a Jamaican mother and Panamanian father, he grew up in a multicultural environment that helped shape his identity and sound. Initially, he was more interested in basketball, even earning a scholarship to play. However, a heart murmur forced him to leave the sport behind. It wasn’t until 2018 that he began experimenting with music, stepping into the studio almost by chance—and the rest was history.
Rise to Fame
Pop Smoke’s breakout single, “Welcome to the Party,” dropped in 2019 and immediately put him on the map. With its menacing beat and his commanding vocal delivery, the track became a viral hit, attracting remixes from artists like Nicki Minaj and Skepta. This song introduced many to Brooklyn drill, a subgenre influenced by the UK drill scene but infused with a uniquely New York flavor.
He followed up with his debut mixtape, Meet the Woo, which solidified his place as a new voice in hip-hop. The sequel, Meet the Woo 2, debuted at number 7 on the Billboard 200, just weeks before his death, showcasing his rapid ascent in the industry.
Tragic Death
On February 19, 2020, Pop Smoke was fatally shot during a home invasion in Los Angeles. He was only 20 years old. The news shocked fans and fellow artists alike. At the time of his death, he was working on his debut studio album and was seen as one of the most promising young talents in the industry.
Posthumous Success and Influence
Despite his untimely death, Pop Smoke’s influence only grew. His debut album, Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon, executive produced by 50 Cent, was released posthumously in July 2020. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and featured hits like “The Woo,” “Dior,” and “For the Night.” It became one of the best-performing hip-hop albums of the year and introduced his music to an even wider audience.
A second posthumous album, Faith, was released in 2021, further cementing his legacy and offering fans more of the music he left behind.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Pop Smoke was more than just a drill rapper. He was a symbol of the new generation of hip-hop—bold, innovative, and global. He helped bring Brooklyn drill to the mainstream and inspired a wave of young artists in both the U.S. and the UK. His fashion sense, charisma, and unapologetic authenticity made him a cultural icon.
Pop Smoke’s story is a reminder of both the promise of youth and the fragility of life. While his career was short-lived, his music continues to play at parties, inspire new artists, and remain on playlists across the world.
Conclusion
The life of Pop Smoke was one of immense talent, unfulfilled potential, and lasting influence. Though he only released music for a brief time, he left behind a legacy that continues to shape the sound of modern hip-hop. His voice, style, and spirit live on through his records and the artists he inspired. Pop Smoke’s story may have ended too soon, but his name and music will echo for generations.
(FAQs) about Pop Smoke
1. Who was Pop Smoke?
Pop Smoke, whose real name was Bashar Barakah Jackson, was an American rapper, singer, and songwriter from Brooklyn, New York. He rose to fame in 2019 with the release of his breakout single “Welcome to the Party” and became a leading figure in the Brooklyn drill music scene.
2. When was Pop Smoke born?
Pop Smoke was born on July 20, 1999, in Brooklyn, New York City.
3. How did Pop Smoke die?
Pop Smoke was tragically shot and killed during a home invasion on February 19, 2020, in Hollywood Hills, California. He was only 20 years old at the time.
4. What is Brooklyn drill music?
Brooklyn drill is a subgenre of hip-hop characterized by aggressive beats, gritty lyrics, and influences from the UK drill scene. Pop Smoke is credited with helping popularize this style in the U.S.
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5. What were Pop Smoke’s biggest songs?
Some of Pop Smoke’s most popular songs include:
- “Dior”
- “Welcome to the Party”
- “For the Night” (feat. Lil Baby & DaBaby)
- “Mood Swings” (feat. Lil Tjay)
- “The Woo” (feat. 50 Cent & Roddy Ricch)
6. Did Pop Smoke release any albums?
Yes. His major projects include:
- Meet the Woo (2019) – Mixtape
- Meet the Woo 2 (2020) – Mixtape
- Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon (2020) – Posthumous debut studio album
- Faith (2021) – Second posthumous album
7. Who produced Pop Smoke’s debut album?
Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon was executive produced by 50 Cent, who was one of Pop Smoke’s major influences.
8. What was Pop Smoke’s background?
Pop Smoke was of Jamaican and Panamanian descent. He grew up in the Canarsie neighborhood of Brooklyn.
9. What does “The Woo” mean?
“The Woo” is a term used by Pop Smoke and his crew to represent his lifestyle, neighborhood, and collective. It also became a catchphrase and cultural brand associated with him.
10. Is Pop Smoke’s music still popular?
Yes. Even after his death, Pop Smoke’s music continues to chart, stream in high volumes, and influence new artists. His legacy lives on in the hip-hop community worldwide.