FM News
Happy Birthday to the Late, Great Pop Smoke
By Shane Farias / FM Hip Hop
Bashar Barakah Jackson, otherwise known as Pop Smoke, would be 22 years old today if not for a tragic incident last year. His music, however, is still making waves among the charts and his massive fanbase. For the better part of the day, fans of the rapper have been spreading love and support throughout social media platforms.
Source: MirrorUK
Tragedy shakes Hollywood Hills — and the world
The Brooklyn emcee was murdered in February of last year while staying at a Los Angeles Airbnb. According to reports, Jackson was shot by home invaders who are believed to have seen his address on social media. Apparently, Pop was finishing up the final recordings for his debut album when the tragic event took place.
Pop Smoke should still be here for his birthday 😩❤️🙏🏽
— IG _GoDannie (@_GoDannie) July 20, 2021
According to reports, police were made aware that Jackson had shared images, as well as his address, on social media. They also said that it “was an angle” in the murder investigation.
Pop Smoke’s up-and-coming status as a “drill artist” continues to rise, despite his passing. Drill rap, which originated in Chicago, is a popular genre that focuses on crime, nihilism and daily violence. The genre is also quite popular in the UK, and Jackson was among a handful of artists at the top of the list.
Pop Smoke’s mom, #AudreyJackson said we OUTSIDE for her son’s birthday! 🗽
She also shared a few words on what #PopSmoke day is all about. 💫
His legacy will live on forever! 🕊 pic.twitter.com/RlZjCC9QpY
— HOT 97 (@HOT97) July 21, 2021
The release of ‘Meet the Woo 2’ — Pop’s second mixtape — came only two weeks prior to his untimely death. Shortly after this, his manager Steven Victor, along with 50 Cent, assembled his debut album ‘Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon’ in his honor.
The record hit No. 1 on the Billboard 200, making Pop Smoke the first rapper to debut posthumously at the top of the chart. His follow-up ‘FAITH’ is the second posthumous collection of recordings to fulfill the rapper’s legacy.
May you rest in peace, Pop.
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