Pop Smoke, born Bashar Barakah Jackson, quickly rose from the streets of Brooklyn to become one of the most influential figures in hip-hop.
Known for his distinct voice, hard-hitting beats, and a unique blend of drill and trap music, Pop Smoke’s impact on the music industry is undeniable.
His legacy continues to grow even after his tragic death at a young age. In this article, we’ll dive deep into Pop Smoke’s real name, biography, net worth, and family, offering a comprehensive look at his life and the lasting impact he left on the world.
Pop Smoke Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Bashar Barakah Jackson |
| Date of Birth | July 20, 1999 |
| Place of Birth | Brooklyn, New York City, USA |
| Date of Death | February 19, 2020 |
| Occupation | Rapper, Songwriter |
| Active Years | 2018–2020 |
| Genres | Hip Hop, Drill |
| Labels | Victor Victor Worldwide, Republic Records |
Pop Smoke Real Name: The Story Behind the Stage Name
Pop Smoke’s real name was Bashar Barakah Jackson. Born on July 20, 1999, in Brooklyn, New York City, Pop Smoke’s name carried significant cultural weight.
His first name, Bashar, translates to “bringer of good news” in Arabic, which is fitting given his meteoric rise to fame. Barakah means “blessing,” which perhaps foreshadowed the massive impact he would have on the music world.
The name “Pop Smoke” was a natural evolution of his persona. He adopted “Pop” as a tribute to his love of music and his desire to make an impact, while “Smoke” came from his earlier lifestyle.
This stage name not only helped define his image but also became synonymous with the gritty energy he brought to drill music.
Early Life and Biography: From Brooklyn to Global Fame
Pop Smoke’s early years shaped the rapper he would become. Raised in Canarsie, a neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York, he was influenced by the sounds and culture of the area.
Growing up in a predominantly Caribbean community, Pop Smoke was exposed to reggae, dancehall, and hip-hop from a young age, all of which played a role in his unique sound.
His father, Greg Jackson, was from Jamaica, and his mother, Audrey Jackson, played a crucial role in his upbringing.
Pop Smoke had a brother, Obasi Jackson, with whom he shared a strong bond. He grew up listening to a variety of artists, but it wasn’t until he was introduced to UK drill music that he found his musical niche.
During his youth, Pop Smoke was heavily involved in basketball and even played the sport in high school. However, as he got older, he turned his focus to music.
His journey into the rap world started with making beats on his own. In 2018, after a brief stint in the street life, he began to record and release tracks, which would later define his career.
Pop Smoke’s Rise to Fame: Breaking Out with Drill Music
Pop Smoke’s journey into the music industry began when he released his debut single, “Welcome to the Party”, in 2019. The track became an instant hit, catching the attention of major players in the music industry.
The success of “Welcome to the Party” catapulted Pop Smoke into the mainstream and introduced the world to Brooklyn drill—a subgenre of rap that blends aggressive beats with hypnotic melodies.
Pop Smoke’s sound was heavily influenced by UK drill music, a genre known for its dark, minimalistic beats and street-centric lyrics.
However, Pop Smoke brought his own flavor, incorporating a distinct blend of Brooklyn drill that made him stand out in the music scene.
His deep, gravelly voice and unique delivery captivated fans, and his music quickly resonated across the globe.
In July 2019, he released his debut mixtape, Meet the Woo. The project earned critical acclaim, with tracks like “Dior” becoming anthems for the drill movement.
Pop Smoke’s sound was fresh, aggressive, and relatable to fans who were drawn to his street-smart lyrics and heavy beats.
Collaborations with Major Artists
Pop Smoke’s rise was further accelerated by collaborations with some of the biggest names in hip-hop. Artists like Nicki Minaj, Skepta, Quavo, and A Boogie wit da Hoodie quickly took notice of his talent.
His collaborations with these artists helped expand his audience and solidified his place in the rap scene.
One of the standout collaborations was with 50 Cent, who became a key figure in Pop Smoke’s career. 50 Cent not only helped Pop Smoke refine his sound but also served as an executive producer for his posthumous album, Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon, ensuring his legacy lived on after his untimely death.
Pop Smoke’s Net Worth: A Rising Star with Exponential Growth
Pop Smoke’s career took off in a short span of time, and so did his earnings. By the time of his death, his net worth was estimated at $2 million. However, his posthumous earnings and music releases have contributed to a significant increase in his wealth.
Pop Smoke Net Worth Over the Years
Here’s a breakdown of Pop Smoke’s net worth over the years, showcasing his rapid rise in the music industry:
| Year | Net Worth (approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2020 | $2 million |
| 2021 | $4 million |
| 2022 | $5 million |
| 2023 | $7 million |
| 2024 | $10 million |
Pop Smoke’s income came from various sources: his music sales, streaming royalties, merchandise, and even touring.
Despite his tragic death in February 2020, his albums, especially Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon, continued to dominate the charts, contributing to his growing net worth.
Pop Smoke’s Family: A Close-Knit Support System
| Family Member | Name |
|---|---|
| Mother | Audrey Jackson |
| Father | Greg Jackson |
| Brother | Obasi Jackson |
Pop Smoke’s family was incredibly important to him throughout his life. His mother, Audrey Jackson, and father, Greg Jackson, supported him from a young age, and their influence on his career cannot be overstated.
His brother, Obasi Jackson, also played a crucial role in his life, and Pop Smoke often expressed how much his family meant to him.
Though Pop Smoke was thrust into the limelight at a young age, he remained close to his family, who continued to honor his legacy after his passing.
His mother has spoken about her pride in his achievements, and his family continues to support his posthumous music releases and estate.
Pop Smoke’s Death: The Tragic Loss of a Rising Star
On February 19, 2020, Pop Smoke was tragically murdered in a home invasion at a rental property in Los Angeles, USA.
The news shocked the world, as Pop Smoke was only 20 years old. His death was ruled a homicide, and the circumstances surrounding his passing remain a point of heartbreak for fans and family alike.
The aftermath of his death brought forward a surge of tributes from fellow artists and fans who recognized the tremendous potential he had.
The incident also sparked conversations about gun violence and the dangers of living a street-influenced life, even after achieving success.
Pop Smoke’s Legacy: Music and Impact
Pop Smoke’s legacy is cemented through his contributions to hip-hop and drill music. His blend of hard-hitting beats, aggressive lyrics, and catchy hooks made him one of the most exciting new artists of his time.
He was able to seamlessly merge Brooklyn drill with mainstream hip-hop, and his influence continues to reverberate through the industry.
His debut posthumous album, Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon, was released in July 2020 and debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart.
The album featured several hit singles, including “What You Know Bout Love” and “Mood Swings”. His second posthumous album, Faith, was released in July 2021, further solidifying his place as a pioneer of the modern drill movement.
Pop Smoke’s Impact on Drill Music and Hip Hop
Pop Smoke’s influence on drill music cannot be overstated. His contributions helped bring the genre to a global stage, and he was recognized as a leader in the movement.
His ability to blend the aggression of drill with the melodic elements of trap music inspired a new wave of artists to follow in his footsteps.
His music remains timeless, with tracks that are frequently streamed and remixed by up-and-coming artists. Pop Smoke’s influence is also seen in the rise of drill music across the world, particularly in cities like London, where UK drill music has been gaining international attention.
Fun Facts About Pop Smoke
Here are some lesser-known facts about Pop Smoke:
- Pop Smoke’s favorite artist was 50 Cent, and he often cited him as a major influence.
- He was deeply connected to his Caribbean roots, often incorporating Jamaican influences into his music.
- Despite his rise to fame, Pop Smoke remained grounded, always referring to his upbringing and the struggles he faced on his way to success.
- His signature deep voice and delivery became instantly recognizable in the hip-hop world.
Frequently Asked Qeustions
Pop Smoke Net Worth: How Much Was He Worth at the Time of His Passing?
Pop Smoke’s net worth was estimated at around $2 million at the time of his death in 2020. Since then, his estate has continued to grow, reaching $10 million in 2024 due to posthumous music releases and streaming.
Pop Smoke Real Name: What Was Pop Smoke’s Real Name?
Pop Smoke’s real name was Bashar Barakah Jackson. He chose the stage name “Pop Smoke” to represent his Brooklyn roots and the impact he hoped to have in the music industry.
Pop Smoke Net Worth 2023: What Was His Net Worth in 2023?
In 2023, Pop Smoke’s net worth had risen to approximately $7 million. This increase was driven by continued streaming success and the release of posthumous albums.
Pop Smoke Place of Birth: Where Was Pop Smoke Born?
Pop Smoke was born in Brooklyn, New York City, USA, on July 20, 1999. His upbringing in Brooklyn deeply influenced his unique style, especially in drill music.
Pop Smoke Date of Birth: When Was Pop Smoke Born?
Pop Smoke was born on July 20, 1999. His early years in Brooklyn, New York, set the stage for his rapid rise in the music industry before his tragic passing in February 2020.
Conclusion
Pop Smoke may have been taken too soon, but his legacy in the music world continues to grow. From his breakout hit “Welcome to the Party” to his posthumous albums, his contributions to hip-hop and drill music have left a permanent mark.
Bashar Barakah Jackson, the young man from Brooklyn, will forever be remembered for his innovative sound, dedication to his craft, and the impact he made on the music industry.
Though his life was tragically cut short, Pop Smoke’s family, fans, and fellow artists continue to celebrate his life and music ensuring that his net worth and legacy continue to rise long after his death.