The Rise and Legacy of Pop Smoke: A Comprehensive Biography

Bashar Barakah Jackson, known professionally as Pop Smoke, was born on July 20, 1999, in Brooklyn, New York City. His life, though tragically cut short on February 19, 2020, left an indelible mark on the music industry, particularly the drill music scene. This article delves into the significant events, financial milestones, and lesser-known aspects of Pop Smoke's life and career.

Early Life and Influences

Pop Smoke grew up in the Canarsie neighborhood of Brooklyn, a melting pot of cultures that heavily influenced his music style. His parents, Greg Jackson and Audrey Jackson, provided a nurturing environment despite the area's challenges. From a young age, Pop Smoke was exposed to diverse musical genres, ranging from reggae due to his Jamaican heritage to hip-hop, which dominated the local scene.

Breakout Singles and Rapid Rise

In 2019, Pop Smoke released his breakout single, "Welcome to the Party," which quickly gained traction. The song was produced by 808Melo, a UK drill producer, and showcased a minimalistic yet aggressive sound that was relatively new to the American audience. The single's success was bolstered by a remix featuring Nicki Minaj, which further propelled its popularity.

Following "Welcome to the Party," Pop Smoke released "Dior," another hit that cemented his place in the music industry. The track became an anthem and was later nominated for a Grammy Award in 2021, posthumously recognizing Pop Smoke's impact on the genre.

Financial Success and Earnings

By the end of 2019, Pop Smoke's estimated net worth had surged to approximately $2 million. This rapid financial ascent was driven by his music sales, streaming revenue, and live performances. For instance, his mixtape "Meet the Woo" sold over 500,000 copies in the U.S., generating significant income. Additionally, his collaborations with artists like Travis Scott on the track "GATTI" provided further financial benefits and exposure.

Influence and Collaborations

Pop Smoke was known for his collaborations with UK drill artists and producers, including AJ Tracey and Skepta. His unique ability to blend the gritty sounds of UK drill with the swagger of New York hip-hop created a new sub-genre that resonated with a global audience. He also worked with American artists like Quavo, Lil Tjay, and A Boogie wit da Hoodie, broadening his musical repertoire.

Posthumous Releases and Legacy

Tragically, Pop Smoke's life was cut short when he was murdered during a home invasion in Los Angeles on February 19, 2020. Despite his untimely death, his music continued to thrive. His posthumous album, "Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon," released in July 2020, debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and sold over 251,000 units in its first week.

The album featured contributions from several high-profile artists, including 50 Cent, who also served as an executive producer. The commercial success of this album further solidified Pop Smoke's legacy, with tracks like "The Woo" featuring Roddy Ricch and 50 Cent becoming instant hits.

Impact on Fashion and Culture

Pop Smoke's influence extended beyond music into fashion and culture. He was known for his distinctive style, often seen wearing luxury brands like Dior and Amiri. His fashion sense resonated with his fans, leading to collaborations with brands and an eventual posthumous feature in Paris Fashion Week.

Early Musical Endeavors

Before his rap career, Pop Smoke dabbled in basketball and even received a scholarship to play in Philadelphia, which he eventually declined to pursue music.

Financial Ventures

Pop Smoke invested in a Brooklyn-based startup called "Woo Wear," aiming to create a clothing line that reflected his unique style and the culture of his neighborhood.

Philanthropy

Despite his rising fame, Pop Smoke remained committed to his community. He funded several youth programs in Canarsie and donated to local schools, emphasizing the importance of education and community support.

Unreleased Music

There are reportedly over 200 unreleased tracks that Pop Smoke recorded before his death, indicating that his influence on the music industry could continue for years to come.

Documentary

An exclusive documentary titled "Welcome to the Party: The Life of Pop Smoke" is set to release, featuring interviews with close friends, family, and collaborators, providing an in-depth look into his life and career.

FAQS

What were Pop Smoke's early musical influences?

Pop Smoke's early musical influences included reggae, reflecting his Jamaican heritage, and hip-hop, which was prevalent in his Brooklyn neighborhood. This diverse exposure helped shape his unique sound in the drill music genre.

How did Pop Smoke's breakout single "Welcome to the Party" gain popularity?

"Welcome to the Party" gained popularity due to its aggressive, minimalistic sound produced by UK drill producer 808Melo. The song's success was further boosted by a remix featuring Nicki Minaj, which widened its audience.

What is significant about Pop Smoke's posthumous album "Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon"?

Released in July 2020, "Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon" debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, selling over 251,000 units in its first week. It featured contributions from high-profile artists and helped solidify Pop Smoke's legacy.

What was Pop Smoke's involvement in fashion?

Pop Smoke was known for his distinctive style, often wearing luxury brands like Dior and Amiri. His fashion sense led to brand collaborations and a posthumous feature in Paris Fashion Week, highlighting his influence beyond music.

How did Pop Smoke contribute to his community?

Despite his fame, Pop Smoke remained committed to his community. He funded youth programs in Canarsie, donated to local schools, and emphasized the importance of education and community support.

What were Pop Smoke's plans for his clothing line "Woo Wear"?

Pop Smoke invested in the startup "Woo Wear" with the aim of creating a clothing line that reflected his style and the culture of his Brooklyn neighborhood, intending to make a mark in the fashion industry.

Conclusion

Pop Smoke's meteoric rise in the music industry and his lasting impact on the drill scene and beyond is a testament to his talent and vision. From his early days in Brooklyn to his posthumous success, Pop Smoke's legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists and fans alike. His story is one of resilience, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of greatness, ensuring that his name will be remembered for years to come.