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New Kids on the Block: Still Young at Heart with New Album and Tour

May 20, 2024

The New Kids on the Block are back, proving they’re still in the game with the release of their first album in 11 years. Their eighth studio album, aptly titled "Still Kids,"...

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How Billie Eilish’s ‘Blue’ Lyrics Relate to Every Song on ‘Hit Me Hard And Soft’

May 20, 2024

Billie Eilish has finally released her highly anticipated third album, Hit Me Hard and Soft, with the lyrics of the final track, "Blue," capturing significant attention from fans...

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Tame Impala’s Kevin Parker Sells Entire Past and Future Catalogue to Sony Music

May 20, 2024

In a significant move within the music industry, Kevin Parker, the creative force behind Tame Impala, has sold his entire music catalog to Sony Music Publishing...

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The Battle for Music Rights in the Age of AI: A Call to Action for Music Creators

May 18, 2024

In a landmark move that underscores the growing tensions between technology and the music industry, Sony Music has taken a bold stand against tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI...

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Lil Durk Relaunches OTF Label with AWAL Partnership: A New Chapter for Independent Music

May 18, 2024

In an empowering move for independent music, Lil Durk has announced the relaunch of his Only The Family (OTF) label, now in partnership with AWAL...

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Luis Fonsi's El Viaje Takes Fans on a Global Journey in His 25th Anniversary Album

May 18, 2024

“This album has me very excited because all the songs on the album are names of cities, that’s why it’s called El Viaje,” Fonsi revealed. “They are rhythmic songs, romantic songs...

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Kehlani Set to Crash into Summer with New Studio Album

May 18, 2024

Kehlani is making a powerful return with her upcoming album, Crash, set to drop on June 21. This release marks her first full-length project since the 2022 hit album Blue Water Road....

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Ghostface Killah's 'Set the Tone' Album Boasts Star-Studded Lineup

May 18, 2024

Ghostface Killah, the legendary member of the Wu-Tang Clan, is gearing up to drop his highly anticipated solo album, "Set the Tone," and the lineup looks nothing short of...

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“No Hard Feelings”: The Chainsmokers' Electrifying Return

May 18, 2024

The Chainsmokers emerge with a new EP, "No Hard Feelings," consisting of a mix of their past and future sounds. The hit-making duo's latest project is a revisitation of their roots...

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Sony Music Slams AI Tech Giants for Unauthorized Use of Stars' Songs

May 16, 2024

Sony Music, the world's largest music publisher, has taken a significant stance in the ongoing debate over artificial intelligence (AI) and copyright. Recently, Sony has sent letters to major tech...

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Pete Ganbarg Launches Pure Tone Records: A New Venture with Atlantic Records

May 16, 2024

In a significant move for the music industry, Pete Ganbarg, renowned for his A&R expertise, has announced the launch of Pure Tone Records in a joint venture with Atlantic Records...

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Why The Killers ‘Mr. Brightside’ Has Remained on the Charts for a Decade and Counting

May 16, 2024

Released in 2003 and re-released in 2004, The Killers' "Mr. Brightside" quickly became a defining anthem of the early 2000s, propelling the band to global superstardom...

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Pop Smoke: A Rising Star Taken Too Soon

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Photo Source: NY Times

Pop Smoke had a brief but impactful career. Born Bashar Barakah Jackson on July 20, 1999, in Brooklyn, New York, Pop Smoke quickly rose to prominence as a dynamic and versatile rapper, blending elements of drill, hip-hop, and trap to create a sound that was unique and never heard before. Sadly, Pop’s life was cut short on February 19th, 2020, when he was killed in a home invasion by a robber looking to steal his chains.

Pop Smoke burst onto the scene with his breakout single "Welcome to the Party" in 2019, which showcased his gritty lyrics, deep voice, and unique flow. The track became an anthem of sorts for a new generation, propelling him into the spotlight and setting the stage for what would become a promising career. His music, often characterized by its raw energy and aggressive beats, spoke to the realities of street life, creating a sense of authenticity that listeners connected with.

Pop Smoke's debut mixtape, "Meet the Woo," was released in 2019 and solidified his place as a rising star. Its success paved the way for the sequel, "Meet the Woo 2," which dropped in early 2020 and showcased his evolving sound and artistic growth. He passed away a few weeks after the release of his second studio album. After his death, the album “Shoot for the Stars, Aim for The Moon” was released on July 20th, 2020. The album “Faith” was then released on July 16th, 2021, no new music by Pop Smoke has been released since.

With Pop Smoke’s trademark deep voice and charismatic presence, he effortlessly embodied the essence of modern hip-hop culture. His ability to mix his tough exterior with vulnerability in his lyrics created a versatile artist who resonated with a wide range of fans.

In his short time in the spotlight, Pop Smoke managed to achieve what many artists aspire to accomplish over a lifetimeAs we remember Pop Smoke, it's important not only to celebrate his music but also to reflect on the potential that was tragically snuffed out. He serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the moments we have.

Pop’s impact on the music industry was short but immense. His music has inspired millions and even started a new sound to drill rap. His legacy will forever be remembered by others as they continue to use Pop’s influence to carry through their music.