POP SMOKE

BY: Alexis Eichelberger

In recent years, we’ve seen too many young hip-hop stars’ careers tragically cut short. Pop Smoke became the latest to die unexpectedly in February when he was shot during a home invasion. However, the rising star’s legacy continues to live on through his posthumously released music and chart-climbing hits.

He was born Bashar Barakah Jackson in Brooklyn and many considered Pop Smoke a visionary of the New York rap scene. He pioneered the development of Brooklyn drill music and brought it into the mainstream, giving the dark and violent rap style newfound exposure and popularity. 

Jackson’s music career began in 2018 when he started remixing New York-made hip-hop before creating original tracks. His breakout single “Welcome to the Party” put him on the mainstream map in 2019, peaking at number 48 on the Billboard R&B/Hip-hop chart after Nicki Minaj remixed the track. He later collaborated with rap stars like Travis Scott and scored features from Quavo, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie and Lil Tjay on his second mixtape.

“Dior” became Jackson’s first single to appear on the Hot 100 in the week following his death. The punchy track combines the aggressiveness of drill music with the standard touting of wealth and designer drip that permeates rap music. It peaked at number 30 on the chart and is certified RIAA platinum. In early June, his label released “Make It Rain,” a collaboration with fellow Brooklynite Rowdy Rebel that reached number 51.

Pop Smoke’s debut album Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon, is scheduled to be released July 3. Rapper and producer 50 Cent was said to be involved in its completion and it’s rumored to include features from Drake, Chris Brown and Roddy Ricch. 

The commercial success of Pop Smoke, even after his death, may speak to the future of hip-hop. As his hits continue to climb the charts, we’ll be watching what up-and-comers draw inspiration from his unique New York musical style.