.png)
October 5, 2023
Few hip-hop projects have managed to retain their timeless quality to the same extent that Drake and Future's "What a Time to Be Alive" has. This 2015 album's release...
Read more.png)
October 5, 2023
The Sonder group is a rare find in the world of modern R&B. Producer's Atu, Dpat, and lead vocalist Brent Faiyaz make up the band Sonder, which spins a captivating musical story...
Read more.png)
October 5, 2023
Resentment" stands out among emotional ballads and provides listeners with a musical haven in which to confront and work through their own inner issues...
Read more
October 4, 2023
What makes Alan Walker's music so special is its ability to evoke a profound sense of nostalgia. His songs are often associated with the 2010s, a time when many people were just enjoying their youth..
Read more
October 2, 2023
This year, we shine a spotlight on The Snotty Nose Rez Kids, a dynamic, ultra-talented, Indigenous hip-hop duo whose music and activism spreads the message of truth and reconciliation through rap.
Read more.png)
September 29, 2023
Madison Beer's journey began in the most modern of ways: on the internet. Born on March 5, 1999, in Jericho, New York, Madison was introduced to music at a young age...
Read more.png)
September 29, 2023
After a long two year wait since the release of her first breakout album “Sour”, Olivia Rodrigo is back with her sophomore album, “GUTS.” Olivia Rodrigo has been a revelation in the music...
Read more
September 29, 2023
Throughout the show, the trainees trained rap, dance, and vocal skills through a variety of battles. On April 20, 2023, the nine members of ZEROBASEONE (ZB1) were announced....
Read more.png)
September 27, 2023
The highly awaited sophomore album from Lil Tecca, the 21-year-old hip-hop sensation, is called "TEC," and it's safe to say that it demonstrates the artist's development and professional maturity...
Read more.png)
September 27, 2023
Drake and SZA, has recently swept the globe with their most recent single, "Slime You Out." This unique and intriguing song has already attracted a lot of attention...
Read more
September 25, 2023
What sets Laufey apart is her unique fusion of jazz, folk, and pop elements, creating a sound that resonates with both jazz enthusiasts and a younger audience...
Read more
September 25, 2023
For the past few months, K-pop fans have turned to the new reality competition that is America 2 Korea (A2K). The show’s premise involves contestants earning “stones” ...
Read more.png)
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.
