Pop Smoke

Pop Smoke, born Bashar Barakah Jackson on July 20, 1999, was an American rapper and songwriter known for pioneering the Brooklyn drill music scene. His music blends elements of hip-hop, trap, and UK drill, characterized by deep vocal tones and heavy bass. Pop Smoke gained widespread recognition with his 2019 debut mixtape, "Meet the Woo," featuring the breakout single "Welcome to the Party." His subsequent project, "Meet the Woo 2," solidified his status, with tracks like "Dior" becoming anthems in the genre. Tragically, Pop Smoke was shot and killed during a home invasion in February 2020, just as his career was skyrocketing. Posthumously, his debut studio album, "Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon," released in July 2020, debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and included collaborations with major artists like Lil Baby and DaBaby. Pop Smoke's impact on music is profound, as he brought Brooklyn drill to a global audience and influenced a new generation of artists, blending gritty street narratives with melodic hooks. His unique sound and style continue to resonate within the hip-hop community.