BEHIND THE STITCH: ALANI
June 21, 2024
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February 19, 2025, marked five years since the tragic passing of Bashar “Pop Smoke” Jackson, the Brooklyn drill pioneer whose influence on hip-hop, to this day remains undeniable.
On July 26, 2019, Pop Smoke released his debut mixtape, Meet the Woo. This project took the world by storm, introducing the world to his distinctive sound and ultimately played a giant part in solidifying his place in hip-hop history. Before Meet the Woo, Brooklyn drill was still emerging from the underground. While artists like Sheff G and 22Gz were pivotal to the genre’s early development, it was Pop Smoke who took it to mainstream heights. His breakout single, “Welcome to the Party,” produced by UK drill architect 808Melo, became an instant street anthem. The track’s dark, ominous bass and gunshot-like ad-libs resonated deeply, not only in New York but across the globe. Tracks like “Dior” and “PTSD” further established his position in hip-hop, securing his place as one of the most exciting new voices in rap. The success of Meet the Woo paved the way for a sequel, Meet the Woo 2, released in February 2020, just weeks before his untimely passing.
His death in 2020 shook the music industry and in fact, the world, cutting short a meteoric rise that had only just begun. Yet, in the years since, his legacy has continued to grow, with posthumous releases, tribute projects, and a dedicated fan base ensuring that his voice and impact remain ever-present.
To commemorate Pop Smoke’s influence, a special fifth-anniversary edition of his debut mixtape, Meet the Woo, was released on August 16, 2024. The limited-edition vinyl, featuring a striking blue smoke-colored design, paid homage to the original 2019 project that introduced the world to the gravelly-voiced Brooklyn rapper.
The 2024 anniversary release served as a testament to the staying power of his music, reigniting conversations about his influence and reintroducing the project to a new generation of listeners.
Beyond official releases, fans have taken it upon themselves to honor Pop Smoke’s memory. Online communities and social media discussions have been flooded with ideas about creating tribute compilations and anniversary projects dedicated to his artistry. Some fans have suggested curating unreleased freestyles and remixes, while others have called for a collaborative project featuring artists who were inspired by his sound.
The Reddit community, in particular, has been abuzz with discussions about assembling a fan-made tribute album, compiling Pop Smoke’s rare tracks, alternate versions of his songs, and remixes that highlight his distinct energy. This grassroots effort showcases the deep connection fans still feel to his music and their desire to keep his legacy alive in a way that feels authentic and personal.
Despite his career being tragically short-lived, Pop Smoke’s impact on the music industry remains significant. His distinct voice, signature ad-libs, and unique fusion of UK drill production with New York swagger have influenced a new wave of artists. The continued celebration of his work, whether through official releases or fan-driven initiatives, proves that his artistry transcends time.
As the world reflects on five years without him, one thing remains clear: Pop Smoke’s legacy is far from over. With every song played, every tribute made, and every fan who continues to embrace his music, the Woo lives on.
