Bashar Barakah Jackson, known professionally as Pop Smoke, was an influential American rapper and songwriter whose career, though tragically cut short, left an indelible mark on the hip-hop scene. Born on July 20, 1999, in Brooklyn, New York, Pop Smoke rose to prominence in 2019 with his distinctive sound that blended elements of hip-hop with the UK drill genre. His breakout singles "Welcome to the Party" and "Dior" garnered widespread acclaim and helped establish him as a leading figure in the burgeoning Brooklyn drill movement.

Pop Smoke's journey into music began in earnest when he was introduced to the world of music production through his friends. His unique voice and charismatic delivery quickly caught the attention of notable figures in the industry. In April 2019, record producer Rico Beats connected him with Steven Victor, who would become an essential figure in his career. This introduction led to Pop Smoke signing a recording contract with Victor Victor Worldwide and Republic Records. His debut mixtape, "Meet the Woo," released in July 2019, showcased his talent and set the stage for his rapid ascent.

Following the success of his first mixtape, Pop Smoke released his second mixtape, "Meet the Woo V. 2," on February 7, 2020. The project debuted at number seven on the Billboard 200, marking his first top-10 album in the United States. Unfortunately, just twelve days after the mixtape's release, Pop Smoke's life was tragically cut short when he was murdered during a home invasion in Los Angeles on February 19, 2020. His untimely death shocked fans and the music industry alike, sparking an outpouring of grief and tributes.

In the wake of his death, the music he left behind continued to resonate. Fellow New York rapper 50 Cent took on the role of executive producer for Pop Smoke's posthumous debut studio album, "Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon," which was released on July 3, 2020. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, making it one of the most successful posthumous releases in hip-hop history. With all 19 tracks entering the Billboard Hot 100, the album featured hit singles such as "For the Night," featuring DaBaby and Lil Baby, and "What You Know Bout Love."

The legacy of Pop Smoke continues to flourish with the release of his second posthumous studio album, "Faith," in 2021. His contributions to the music world have not only influenced a generation of artists but have also redefined the sound of hip-hop, particularly through the lens of Brooklyn drill. Pop Smoke's life, though brief, remains a testament to his talent and the profound impact he had on the genre, ensuring that his artistry endures beyond his years.