Bashar Barakah Jackson, also known as Pop Smoke, was a rising star in the world of hip-hop, with a sound that was unique and unapologetic. His life was tragically cut short on February 19, 2020, when he was killed during a home invasion in Los Angeles. But despite his untimely death, Pop Smoke’s legacy lives on through his music and the impact he had on the hip-hop world. In this comprehensive overview, we will explore the life and legacy of Pop Smoke, from his early beginnings to his rise to fame, and the impact he had on the genre. We will also delve into his musical style, his most popular songs, and the legacy he left behind. Whether you’re a fan of Pop Smoke or simply interested in the world of hip-hop, this overview is sure to provide a comprehensive look at the life and legacy of one of the genre’s most promising young artists.
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Childhood and Upbringing
Bashar Barakat, better known by his stage name Pop Smoke, was born on July 20, 1999, in Brooklyn, New York. He grew up in a predominantly African-American and Caribbean neighborhood in Canarsie, where he was raised by his Jamaican mother and African-American father.
Despite his humble beginnings, Pop Smoke’s childhood was marked by a strong sense of community and family values. His parents were both hardworking individuals who instilled in him the importance of education and perseverance.
Growing up, Pop Smoke was exposed to a variety of musical genres, including hip-hop, dancehall, and reggae, which would later influence his music. He was also a fan of soccer and played for a local team in his neighborhood.
As a young boy, Pop Smoke was often bullied and teased by his peers due to his light skin and curly hair, which led him to develop a tough exterior and a love for rap music. He found solace in music and began writing his own lyrics at a young age.
Despite facing challenges in his childhood, Pop Smoke remained determined to succeed. He excelled academically and was an honor roll student in high school. He also continued to pursue his passion for music, performing at local events and honing his craft.
In summary, Pop Smoke’s childhood and upbringing played a significant role in shaping the person he would become. His strong family values, exposure to various musical genres, and experiences with bullying all contributed to his unique sound and style, which would later make him a rising star in the hip-hop world.
Discovering Music and Beginnings of Career
Origins of Pop Smoke’s Music Passion
Born as Bashar Barakat in Canarsie, Brooklyn, Pop Smoke’s love for music can be traced back to his early childhood. He was exposed to various genres, including hip-hop, rap, and drill music, which heavily influenced his musical taste.
Early Influences and Musical Inspiration
Pop Smoke was inspired by fellow New York-based artists like 50 Cent, Jay-Z, and The Notorious B.I.G., who have made significant contributions to the city’s rap scene. Additionally, UK drill artists like Skepta and Wiley played a crucial role in shaping his distinctive sound.
First Steps into the Music Industry
At the age of 16, Pop Smoke began his journey as a musician by uploading his music to SoundCloud. He initially used the moniker “Pap Smoke,” later changing it to “Pop Smoke” as he gained more recognition in the industry.
Collaborations and Breakthrough Moments
Pop Smoke’s career saw a significant boost after he collaborated with Brooklyn-based rapper, Rico9000. Together, they created hit tracks like “Gioresto” and “Mandy Freestyle,” which gained them widespread attention within the drill scene.
Signing with Stefflon Don’s Label
In 2018, Pop Smoke signed with British rapper Stefflon Don’s label, 67, which helped him expand his audience beyond New York City. His affiliation with the label provided him with the platform to showcase his unique style and talent to a wider audience.
“Drill Time” and the Beginning of Pop Smoke’s Solo Career
In 2019, Pop Smoke released his debut mixtape, “Drill Time,” which further solidified his status as a rising star in the drill music scene. The mixtape featured several hits, including “Welcome to the Party” and “War,” which gained him a significant following and critical acclaim.
Building a Loyal Fanbase
Pop Smoke’s relatable lyrics, energetic delivery, and distinctive style captured the hearts of many listeners, especially within the drill and rap communities. He consistently dropped new music, with his single “Dior” being released just weeks before his untimely death, further solidifying his place in the industry.
Overcoming Challenges and Staying True to His Roots
Despite facing challenges, such as the loss of his mother and his legal battles, Pop Smoke remained dedicated to his craft. He continued to create music that resonated with his fans and showcased his unique sound, staying true to his roots while pushing the boundaries of drill and rap music.
Breaking into the Mainstream Music Scene
In the early 2010s, Pop Smoke emerged onto the music scene with his unique style and sound, which blended elements of drill, rap, and hip-hop. His early mixtapes, such as “Unknown Stereo” and “The Ghetto Storm,” quickly gained popularity in the underground drill scene, showcasing his raw talent and lyrical prowess.
However, it wasn’t until 2019 that Pop Smoke broke into the mainstream music scene with his debut single, “Welcome to the Party.” The song’s infectious hook and gritty lyrics captured the attention of audiences worldwide, catapulting Pop Smoke to the forefront of the hip-hop scene.
Following the success of “Welcome to the Party,” Pop Smoke released his debut studio album, “Meet the Woo,” in July 2019. The album received widespread critical acclaim and commercial success, solidifying Pop Smoke’s position as a rising star in the industry.
Pop Smoke’s breakout success was not only due to his undeniable talent but also his ability to connect with audiences through his music. His songs tackled topics such as life in the streets, relationships, and personal struggles, resonating with listeners from all walks of life.
With his unique sound and relatable lyrics, Pop Smoke continued to make waves in the music industry, collaborating with some of the biggest names in hip-hop and releasing several successful mixtapes and albums before his untimely death in February 2020.
Despite his relatively short career, Pop Smoke’s impact on the music industry was undeniable, and his legacy continues to inspire and influence new artists to this day.
Music Style and Influence
Overview of Pop Smoke’s Music
Pop Smoke’s music can be characterized as a blend of drill, trap, and grime, with a distinct New York City sound. His lyrics often revolved around themes of love, loss, and the struggles of growing up in the city. His music was highly influenced by UK drill, a subgenre of grime that originated in the UK and is characterized by its dark, menacing beats and MC-led vocals.
One of the defining characteristics of Pop Smoke’s music is his flow, which is both melodic and aggressive. He was known for his ability to seamlessly switch between singing and rapping, a technique that added a unique dynamic to his music. He often incorporated elements of dancehall and reggae into his tracks, creating a sound that was both innovative and nostalgic.
Pop Smoke’s music was not only popular in the US but also gained significant recognition in the UK, where his unique sound resonated with grime and drill music scenes. His influence extended beyond the music industry, as he became a cultural icon for many young people in New York City and beyond.
Despite his untimely death, Pop Smoke’s legacy continues to live on through his music. His posthumously released album, “Shoot for the Stars Aim for the Moon,” debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart and was met with widespread critical acclaim. It cemented his status as a pioneering figure in the drill and trap genres and solidified his place in the history of hip-hop.
Genre and Subgenre
Pop Smoke’s music can be primarily classified as a genre of hip-hop known as drill, which originated in the UK and gained popularity in the US during the late 2010s. Drill music is characterized by its dark, menacing beats and lyrics that often revolve around themes of violence, gang culture, and urban life.
Within the drill genre, Pop Smoke’s music can be further categorized as a subgenre known as Brooklyn drill, which emerged in the Brooklyn neighborhood of New York City. Brooklyn drill is known for its gritty, streetwise sound and its focus on the experiences and perspectives of young people growing up in the city’s toughest neighborhoods.
Pop Smoke’s music also drew influence from other genres, including trap and grime. Trap music, which originated in the southern United States, is characterized by its heavy basslines and snare-heavy beats, while grime is a electronic dance music genre that originated in the UK and is known for its complex rhythms and MC-led vocals.
Overall, Pop Smoke’s music style and influence can be seen as a unique blend of drill, trap, and grime, with a focus on the experiences and perspectives of young people growing up in urban environments.
Musical Influences and Collaborations
Throughout his career, Pop Smoke’s music was influenced by various genres and artists, and he collaborated with numerous other musicians. In this section, we will delve into the specific musical influences and collaborations that shaped Pop Smoke’s unique sound and impact on the music industry.
East Coast Drill and Grime Music
Pop Smoke’s music was heavily influenced by the East Coast drill scene, which originated in New York City. This style of rap music incorporates elements of UK drill, a subgenre of grime music, which is a electronic dance music originating from the UK. Pop Smoke’s use of these elements in his music helped to bring the East Coast drill sound to a wider audience and paved the way for other artists to follow in his footsteps.
Caribbean and Latin Music
Pop Smoke’s music also drew inspiration from Caribbean and Latin music, with reggae and dancehall influences being particularly prominent in his work. His use of these elements added a unique flavor to his music, which helped to appeal to a wide range of audiences.
Collaborations with Other Artists
Throughout his career, Pop Smoke collaborated with numerous other artists, both established and up-and-coming. Some of his most notable collaborations include:
- “Welcome to the Party” with Skepta and A$AP TyY
- “War” with Nicki Minaj and Lil Tjay
- “Diana” with King Combs and Calboy
- “Enemies” with Burna Boy and Stormzy
These collaborations helped to further expand Pop Smoke’s reach and solidify his position as a rising star in the music industry.
Legacy and Impact on Hip-Hop
Contributions to the Genre
Despite his untimely death, Pop Smoke made a significant impact on the hip-hop genre. He was known for his unique sound, which blended elements of drill, rap, and R&B. Some of his notable contributions to the genre include:
- Introducing the drill genre to a wider audience: Pop Smoke’s music brought the drill genre, which originated in the UK, to a mainstream American audience. His popularity helped to establish drill as a subgenre of hip-hop, with many artists following in his footsteps.
- Bridging the gap between drill and rap: Pop Smoke’s music incorporated elements of both drill and rap, creating a sound that was distinct from other artists in the genre. He seamlessly blended the hard-hitting beats of drill with the lyrical storytelling of rap, creating a unique and distinctive sound.
- Exploring themes of violence and street life: Pop Smoke’s music often dealt with themes of violence, crime, and life in the streets. However, he also explored more sensitive topics such as relationships and mental health, showing a vulnerable side to his personality. This made his music relatable to a wide range of listeners, helping to establish him as one of the most exciting new talents in hip-hop.
- Inspiring a new generation of artists: Pop Smoke’s influence on the hip-hop scene was evident in the number of new artists who emerged in the wake of his death. Many of these artists were inspired by his unique sound and style, and sought to emulate his success. His legacy continues to inspire and influence the hip-hop genre, cementing his place as one of the most important artists of his generation.
Challenging Stereotypes and Redefining Image
One of the most significant contributions of Pop Smoke to the hip-hop genre was his ability to challenge and subvert the stereotypes often associated with it. Through his music and image, he sought to redefine what it meant to be a successful rapper, and his influence in this regard has been felt across the industry.
- Rejecting the “Gangsta” Image: Pop Smoke’s music was rooted in the drill sound that originated in the UK and gained popularity in the US. His style was a departure from the traditional “gangsta” image often portrayed in hip-hop, with his focus on the drill sound being a notable shift. This move away from the stereotypical image of a successful rapper allowed him to stand out in a crowded field, and his unique approach to music quickly made him a rising star in the industry.
- Embracing Authenticity: Pop Smoke’s authenticity was another aspect of his image that challenged stereotypes in hip-hop. His lyrics often dealt with the realities of his life, including his experiences growing up in Brooklyn and his rise to fame. This focus on authenticity helped to make his music relatable to a wide audience, and his honesty and vulnerability in his lyrics helped to create a strong connection with his fans.
- The Importance of Representation: Pop Smoke’s impact on hip-hop went beyond just his music, as his rise to fame represented a significant moment for representation in the industry. As a Black artist from Brooklyn, he provided a new face for hip-hop, one that was reflective of the diversity of the genre. His success served as an inspiration to many young artists, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, and his legacy continues to influence the way that hip-hop is perceived and represented in popular culture.
Overall, Pop Smoke’s legacy in hip-hop is defined by his ability to challenge and subvert stereotypes, and his influence in this regard has been significant. By rejecting traditional images of success, embracing authenticity, and providing representation for underrepresented voices, he helped to reshape the landscape of the genre and pave the way for a new generation of artists.
Controversies and Criticisms
Despite his relatively short career, Pop Smoke’s impact on hip-hop was undeniable. However, his legacy was not without controversy and criticism.
Comparisons to Other Drill Rappers
One of the primary criticisms of Pop Smoke’s music was the accusation that he merely copied the styles of other drill rappers, such as Chief Keef and G Herbo. While it is true that he drew inspiration from these artists, Pop Smoke’s unique style and flow set him apart from his contemporaries. Nevertheless, some critics argued that he did not bring anything new to the genre and was merely riding the wave of drill music’s popularity.
Violent Lyrics
Another controversy surrounding Pop Smoke’s music was the violent and gang-related themes in his lyrics. Some critics argued that his music glorified violence and perpetuated harmful stereotypes about young Black men. While it is true that Pop Smoke’s music often dealt with topics such as gang life and drug use, it is important to note that these themes are common in hip-hop and have been for decades. Furthermore, Pop Smoke’s music also explored topics such as love, heartbreak, and personal struggles, demonstrating his versatility as an artist.
Backlash from the Drill Scene
In the wake of his success, Pop Smoke faced backlash from some members of the drill scene who felt that he had sold out or betrayed the genre’s roots. While it is true that he had a more polished sound than many of his drill peers, Pop Smoke remained true to the genre’s origins and continued to give credit to the artists who had inspired him. Nevertheless, this backlash highlighted the tension between commercial success and artistic authenticity in hip-hop.
Public Perception
Finally, Pop Smoke’s public image was sometimes called into question due to his affiliation with the Brooklyn drill scene and his association with the Rolling Stone crew. While he was never directly linked to any criminal activity, some members of the public viewed him as a symbol of the violence and chaos associated with drill music. However, others saw him as a symbol of hope and inspiration, particularly for young people of color who felt underrepresented in the music industry.
Overall, while Pop Smoke’s legacy was not without controversy and criticism, his impact on hip-hop was undeniable. He brought a fresh perspective to the genre and helped to elevate drill music to new heights of popularity. Despite the challenges he faced, Pop Smoke remained true to his roots and continued to make music that resonated with fans around the world.
Personal Life and Tragedy
Relationships and Personal Life
In the brief time that he was in the public eye, Pop Smoke maintained a relatively private personal life. He was known to have had a small circle of close friends and associates, many of whom were also involved in the music industry. While he was not particularly forthcoming about his personal relationships, there are a few notable connections that have been made public.
One of the most high-profile relationships that Pop Smoke had was with the actress and model, Celina Powell. The two were reportedly involved in a tumultuous relationship that lasted for several months in 2019. Powell has claimed that the pair were engaged, but Pop Smoke’s camp has never confirmed this.
Despite his relatively small circle of friends, Pop Smoke was known to be a generous and kind-hearted person. He often spoke about his love for his mother and the sacrifices that she had made for him growing up. He was also known to be deeply committed to his faith and often spoke about the importance of prayer and spirituality in his life.
Overall, Pop Smoke’s personal life was marked by a strong sense of loyalty to his friends and family, as well as a deep commitment to his faith and his music. While he may have been guarded about his personal relationships, his music spoke volumes about the depth of his emotions and the experiences that he had encountered in his life.
Legal Troubles and Consequences
During his short but impactful life, Pop Smoke faced a number of legal troubles that had a significant impact on his career and personal life. Despite his success, he was not immune to the legal challenges that many young people in his situation face.
One of the most notable legal issues that Pop Smoke faced was his arrest in February 2020 on charges of possession of a stolen vehicle. According to reports, Pop Smoke and several others were arrested in the Hollywood Hills after police discovered a stolen vehicle on the property. Pop Smoke was subsequently released on bail, but the incident marked a turning point in his career and personal life.
The legal troubles that Pop Smoke faced were not limited to this one incident. In fact, he had a number of prior run-ins with the law, including charges of assault and disorderly conduct. While these incidents did not result in any significant jail time, they did serve as a reminder of the risks and consequences of criminal behavior.
Despite these challenges, Pop Smoke remained committed to his music and his fans. He continued to release new music and perform live, despite the legal challenges that he faced. In many ways, his music served as a form of catharsis, allowing him to express his emotions and experiences in a way that resonated with fans around the world.
Overall, the legal troubles that Pop Smoke faced were a reminder of the real-life challenges that many young people face, particularly those in the entertainment industry. While his music will continue to inspire and uplift his fans, his legacy will also serve as a reminder of the importance of staying true to oneself and facing challenges with resilience and determination.
Murder and Aftermath
On February 19, 2020, Pop Smoke was fatally shot during a home invasion in the Hollywood Hills of Los Angeles. The incident occurred at around 5:30 a.m. local time, when a group of masked individuals broke into the home where Pop Smoke was staying. The rapper was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The murder of Pop Smoke sent shockwaves through the music industry and beyond. His untimely death at the age of 20 cut short a promising career that had already seen him make a significant impact on the hip-hop scene. In the wake of his passing, tributes poured in from fellow artists and fans alike, who mourned the loss of a rising star who had so much more to give.
The investigation into Pop Smoke’s murder is ongoing, and as of yet, no arrests have been made. However, in May 2020, the Los Angeles Police Department announced that they had identified a person of interest in the case, and were seeking the public’s help in locating him.
The tragedy of Pop Smoke’s murder serves as a reminder of the senseless violence that continues to plague our society. It also underscores the importance of supporting emerging artists and celebrating their contributions to the world of music, before it’s too late.
Posthumous Releases and Honors
Unfinished Business and Final Albums
Although Pop Smoke’s life was tragically cut short, his musical legacy continued to grow even after his passing. His posthumous releases and final albums provided a window into the potential of his career and cemented his status as a rising star in the rap industry.
Unfinished Business
One of the most highly anticipated posthumous releases from Pop Smoke was his album “Unfinished Business.” This project was announced shortly before his death and promised to showcase his unique blend of drill and rap music. While the album was incomplete at the time of his passing, Pop Smoke’s team and collaborators worked tirelessly to complete it, ensuring that his vision was realized.
Final Albums
In addition to “Unfinished Business,” Pop Smoke also released two other albums posthumously: “Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon” and “Faith.” These albums solidified his status as a rising star in the rap world and showcased his unique sound and style.
“Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon” was released in July 2020 and featured hit singles like “Dior” and “Moneybagu.” The album debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart, making it Pop Smoke’s first number-one album. It also received widespread critical acclaim, with many praising its emotional depth and powerful storytelling.
“Faith” was released in February 2021 and served as a final testament to Pop Smoke’s talent and potential. The album featured collaborations with some of the biggest names in the rap industry, including Kanye West, Pusha T, and Future. It was also critically acclaimed, with many praising its introspective lyrics and powerful messages.
Through these final albums, Pop Smoke’s legacy continued to grow and inspire new generations of rappers and music lovers. His impact on the rap industry was undeniable, and his posthumous releases served as a reminder of the talent and potential that was lost too soon.
Grammy Nominations and Recognition
Since his untimely death, Pop Smoke has received numerous posthumous honors, including several Grammy nominations. In 2021, the rapper was nominated for five Grammy Awards, including Best Rap Song for “Snitching,” Best Rap Performance for “Dior,” Best Rap Album for “Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon,” and Best New Artist. This made him the first posthumous nominee in the history of the awards to receive five nominations in one year.
Furthermore, in 2022, Pop Smoke was awarded the Best Rap Performance Grammy for his feature on Travis Scott’s “Boss” at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards. This marked the first Grammy win for the rapper, who was not present to accept the award due to his passing. The nomination and win highlight Pop Smoke’s impact on the rap industry and his growing legacy in the music world.
Overall, Pop Smoke’s posthumous recognition demonstrates the enduring influence of his music and the impact he had on the industry during his brief but memorable career.
Memorials and Tributes
After Pop Smoke’s untimely death, there were several memorials and tributes paid to him by his family, friends, and fans. One of the most notable tributes was a private funeral service held in Brooklyn, New York, which was attended by his close friends and family members.
Additionally, many of Pop Smoke’s collaborators and fellow artists paid tribute to him on social media, with some sharing their memories of working with him and others expressing their condolences to his family and loved ones. Some of these tributes included:
- Fivio Foreign: Pop Smoke’s frequent collaborator and friend, Fivio Foreign, paid tribute to him on Instagram, saying: “I can’t believe you’re gone bro, I’m heartbroken. We was just getting started, bro. You were the reason I came back to drill. I love you forever.”
- Nicki Minaj: Pop Smoke had collaborated with Nicki Minaj on the song “Mood Ring,” which was released shortly after his death. Minaj paid tribute to him on Twitter, saying: “Pop Smoke Rest In Peace. The culture lost a genuine king. Prayers to his family, friends & fans.”
- A$AP Rocky: Another collaborator of Pop Smoke, A$AP Rocky, shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, saying: “R.I.P to my guy Pop Smoke. You were a real one and I’m gonna miss you bro. My prayers go out to your family and loved ones. This is a tough one.”
These are just a few examples of the many memorials and tributes paid to Pop Smoke after his death. His legacy as a talented and innovative artist continues to inspire and influence the music industry and his fans around the world.
The Future of Pop Smoke’s Music and Legacy
Exploring the Evolution of Pop Smoke’s Music
The future of Pop Smoke’s music and legacy is an intriguing topic to explore, especially considering the significant impact he made on the music industry during his brief career. Pop Smoke’s unique style and sound, which blended elements of drill, rap, and R&B, resonated with audiences worldwide, catapulting him to stardom in a matter of months. However, his untimely death in February 2020 left fans and the industry grappling with the loss of a rising star whose potential was yet to be fully realized.
Exploring the evolution of Pop Smoke’s music is an essential aspect of understanding his impact on the industry and the future of his legacy. From his early mixtapes to his chart-topping posthumous releases, this section delves into the artistic growth and development of Pop Smoke as a rapper, singer, and songwriter.
Early Mixtapes and Breakthrough Singles
Pop Smoke’s journey as a musician began with his debut mixtape, “Mike WiLL Made-It Presents: ROSTER” (2018), which featured the breakout hit “MPR,” a drill track that showcased his gritty, streetwise delivery and knack for storytelling. His subsequent mixtapes, “Meet the Woo” (2019) and “WooSquad” (2019), further established his sound and style, with standout tracks like “Welcome to the Woo” and “Dior” cementing his status as a rising star in the drill scene.
Collaborations and Features
Pop Smoke’s talent for collaboration and features with other artists played a significant role in his rapid ascension to fame. Tracks like “Beat the Odds” with Dave East and “The Woo” with 50 Cent showcased his versatility as a rapper and his ability to create memorable hooks and melodies. These collaborations also helped him expand his fan base and cross over into other genres, such as hip-hop and R&B.
Posthumous Releases and the Continuation of His Legacy
After his untimely death, Pop Smoke’s music continued to resonate with fans, and his posthumous releases, such as “Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon” (2020), further solidified his status as a groundbreaking artist. The album debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart and featured hit singles like “Dior” and “Mood Swings.” These releases not only showcased his growth as an artist but also served as a testament to the enduring power of his music and the impact he had on the industry.
As the years go by, Pop Smoke’s legacy will continue to evolve, and his influence on the music industry will only grow stronger. The future of his music is filled with possibilities, as new artists are inspired by his sound and continue to push the boundaries of drill and rap music. Pop Smoke’s legacy will live on through his music, and his contributions to the genre will remain a lasting testament to his talent and passion for music.
Continuing Impact on Hip-Hop and Pop Culture
The impact of Pop Smoke’s music and legacy on hip-hop and pop culture is likely to continue to grow in the coming years. Here are some ways in which his influence is expected to be felt:
- Evolution of the Brooklyn drill sound: Pop Smoke’s unique style of drill music, which blended elements of drill with melodic hooks and autotune, has already inspired a new generation of rappers from Brooklyn and beyond. As these artists continue to experiment with the sound, it is likely that the Brooklyn drill sound will continue to evolve and shape the future of hip-hop.
- Influence on fashion and style: Pop Smoke’s distinctive style, which blended streetwear with high-end fashion, has already had a significant impact on the fashion industry. In the coming years, it is likely that his influence will continue to be felt, as more and more artists and designers look to his unique approach to fashion and style for inspiration.
- Influence on the younger generation: Pop Smoke’s music and legacy have already had a profound impact on the younger generation of hip-hop fans. As his music continues to be discovered by new audiences, it is likely that his influence will only continue to grow, inspiring a new wave of artists and fans to embrace his unique sound and style.
- Expansion of his discography: Since his untimely death, there has been a renewed interest in Pop Smoke’s music, with many of his posthumously released tracks achieving widespread success. As his fanbase continues to grow, it is likely that we will see even more of his music released in the coming years, further cementing his place as one of the most influential artists in hip-hop today.
Ensuring the Preservation of Pop Smoke’s Legacy
The life and legacy of Pop Smoke are still being celebrated, and his music continues to influence new generations of artists. To ensure the preservation of his legacy, various initiatives have been taken by his family, friends, and fans.
Archiving Pop Smoke’s Music and Artistry
One of the primary initiatives to preserve Pop Smoke’s legacy is archiving his music and artistry. His record label, Victor Victor Worldwide, has been working on releasing posthumous albums and singles, keeping his music alive for his fans. Additionally, the label has been working on creating a comprehensive database of Pop Smoke’s music, interviews, and other related materials, which will serve as a resource for researchers, journalists, and fans.
Honoring Pop Smoke’s Memory
Another way to preserve Pop Smoke’s legacy is by honoring his memory through various events and initiatives. For instance, the Pop Smoke Foundation was established in his honor, which aims to provide support and resources to underserved youth in the Brooklyn community where he grew up. The foundation seeks to create programs that will inspire and empower young people to pursue their dreams, just as Pop Smoke did.
Educating the Public About Pop Smoke’s Impact
Finally, preserving Pop Smoke’s legacy involves educating the public about his impact on the music industry and his community. Various articles, documentaries, and podcasts have been created to highlight his life, music, and influence. Additionally, academic institutions have begun to study his music and artistry, which will contribute to a deeper understanding of his contributions to hip-hop and beyond.
In conclusion, ensuring the preservation of Pop Smoke’s legacy requires a multifaceted approach, including archiving his music, honoring his memory through initiatives, and educating the public about his impact. These efforts will ensure that his music and memory continue to inspire and influence generations to come.
FAQs
1. When was Pop Smoke born?
Pop Smoke was born on July 20, 1999, in Brooklyn, New York. He grew up in the borough’s Canarsie neighborhood and began rapping at a young age.
2. When did Pop Smoke die?
Pop Smoke was tragically killed on February 19, 2020, at the age of 20. He was shot during a home invasion in Los Angeles, California.
3. What was Pop Smoke’s real name?
Pop Smoke’s real name was Bashar Barakah Jackson. He adopted the stage name “Pop Smoke” early in his career.
4. How did Pop Smoke gain popularity?
Pop Smoke gained popularity through his breakout hit “Welcome to the Party,” which was released in 2019. The song became a viral sensation and helped to establish Pop Smoke as a rising star in the hip-hop world.
5. What was Pop Smoke’s musical style?
Pop Smoke’s musical style was a blend of drill and rap, with a focus on storytelling and authenticity. He was known for his distinctive voice and his ability to bring a sense of urgency and energy to his music.
6. What was Pop Smoke’s legacy?
Pop Smoke’s legacy is one of innovation and impact. He was a trailblazer in the drill movement and helped to bring the genre to a wider audience. His music continues to inspire and influence new artists, and his memory lives on through his music and the countless fans he touched.