July 30, 2025
In a surprising twist, the Demon Hunter K-pop soundtrack has claimed the top spot on the UK charts, reflecting the growing influence of the genre beyond its South Korean origins. Meanwhile, the...
Read moreJuly 30, 2025
This week's noteworthy tale: The 1962 B-side song "Pretty Little Baby," a decades-old deep cut by pop icon Connie Francis, has gone viral on TikTok, exposing a new generation to a voice from the...
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First, he gave us heartbreak. Then he gave us the high notes. Now, The Weeknd is giving world tour energy and yes, it’s cinematic, chaotic, and somehow still deeply romantic. From House of Balloons...
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There’s always that one song. The one that hits the speakers, and suddenly everyone’s doing choreography they didn’t know they knew. That song, right now, is “Rock Your Body Now.” It didn’t just...
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When JENNIE released “Like JENNIE,” it wasn’t just a comeback, it was a lesson in effortless power. Soft but sharp, understated but unforgettable, the track doesn’t ask for attention. It just...
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He’s mysterious. He’s moody. He disappears for years and then shows up like nothing happened with bangers. Yes, Bryson Tiller is officially on a world tour, and if you’ve ever whispered...
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The Elevator Boys, Jacob, Julien, Bene, Tim, and Luis, just dropped “California”, their most personal track to date. They are well-known for their charm and choreography, but this time they..
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Drake has done it again, dropping a new track that has sent fans into a frenzy. This time, the Canadian rap icon has teamed up with UK artist Central Cee for a collaboration that blends their...
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A distinctive new release is bringing people from different generations and places together in a music world that has been altered by technology upheavals and cultural differences. The 59-year-old...
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The psychedelic music project led by Kevin Parker debuts first track since 2020's The Slow Rush. Australian musician Kevin Parker has unveiled "End of Summer," the first new Tame Impala single in...
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The experimental rock group Xiu Xiu formally declared that they would be removing their music from Spotify in response to the platform's investment in artificial intelligence (AI)-powered combat...
Read morePhoto 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.