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Pop Smoke’s meteoric rise in the hip-hop scene was as impactful as it was brief. His distinctive voice and drill beats left an indelible mark on the genre. I’m diving into his discography to rank his albums, exploring the legacy of a rapper gone too soon.
From his breakout mixtape to posthumous releases, Pop Smoke’s work has resonated with fans worldwide. I’ll break down each album, considering the hits, deep cuts, and overall impact. Join me as we celebrate the music of this gone-but-never-forgotten icon.
1. Meet the Woo
When it comes to Pop Smoke’s discography, “Meet the Woo” undoubtedly holds a special place. Released in July 2019, this debut mixtape not only showcased his raw talent but also cemented his role in bringing New York’s drill movement to the forefront of hip-hop. ‘Meet the Woo’, from its hard-hitting tracks to its gritty lyrics, captures the essence of the streets of Brooklyn, giving listeners a front-row seat to the life that Pop Smoke was all too familiar with.
Tracks like “Welcome to the Party” became anthems, not only in New York City but across the globe. The fusion of UK drill production with Pop Smoke’s unique delivery created a sound that was fresh, energetic, and unapologetically brash.
Here’s what stood out from “Meet the Woo”:
- “Welcome to the Party” for its viral impact and cultural wave
- “Dior” for showcasing Pop Smoke’s versatility and fashion sense
- “Hawk Em” for its aggressive tone and memorable lines
Let’s not forget the significance of production value. 808Melo, a UK-based producer, provided the perfect canvas for Pop Smoke’s artistry to thrive. The beats were uncompromisingly raw, mirroring the hustle and drive that characterized Pop Smoke’s rise in the industry.
My personal favorite, “PTSD”, reveals a deeper layer of the artist, the human beneath the persona, wrestling with the impact of his tumultuous past. It’s tracks like these that demonstrated Pop Smoke’s potential to transcend the traditional expectations of the drill genre.
“Meet the Woo” was more than just an introduction to an artist; it was a cultural reset in the hip-hop community. It brought a sound from across the Atlantic and blended it with Pop Smoke’s gravity-defying voice to create a phenomenon. The project, while aggressive and raw, also allowed glimpses of vulnerability and the promise of what was to come. Each track offered a different shade of the artist, painting a complex picture of a star in the making.
2. Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon
Following the raw energy of “Meet the Woo,” Pop Smoke’s debut studio album “Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon” marked a pivotal moment in his career. The album released posthumously on July 3, 2020, was a showcase of what was and what could have been. It painted a broader artistic palette for Pop Smoke and displayed an impressive range that few artists achieve so early in their careers. The album is an eclectic mix of sounds that further established Pop Smoke’s influence in the hip-hop industry.
“Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon” features a star-studded lineup of guest appearances, including the likes of Quavo, Lil Baby, and DaBaby. These collaborations allowed for a fusion of styles and proved that Pop Smoke could hold his own alongside industry heavyweights. The track “For the Night,” which features Lil Baby and DaBaby, soared to impressive chart positions and became a fan favorite.
The seamless blend of drill anthems and melodic tunes in the album mirrors Pop Smoke’s versatile approach to music. Tracks like “The Woo” featuring 50 Cent and Roddy Ricch, have further solidified Pop Smoke’s legacy, garnering significant airplay and streams. The production quality, coupled with Pop Smoke’s unique voice, made the album not just a collection of songs but an immersive auditory experience.
Despite the times of sorrow following Pop Smoke’s untimely passing, “Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon” serves as a testament to his talent and potential. The commercial success of the album, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200, reverberated Pop Smoke’s impact far beyond Brooklyn, reaching a global audience that continues to grow.
Tracks from the album have not only charted domestically but internationally, highlighting the global appeal that Pop Smoke’s music possesses. The album’s success echoed the sentiments of fans and critics alike—Pop Smoke was a generational talent who left an indelible mark on the world of music.
3. Faith
Pop Smoke’s second posthumous album, “Faith,” surfaced on July 16, 2021, and it undoubtedly stirred the hip-hop scene with its arrival. While it teeters on the edges of the artist’s ethos, the project is an embodiment of the potential paths Pop Smoke’s music could have tread. I find “Faith” to be a profound nod to the future that could’ve been — a blend of ambition and homage.
The album’s roster reads like a who’s who of the music industry. Kanye West, Pusha T, Kid Cudi, and Pharrell Williams are just a few of the heavy hitters who appear. “Faith” also highlights rising stars like 24kGoldn and showcases the versatility found in the late artist’s creative partnerships. These collaborations, as indulging and varied as they are, paint a rich tapestry of what Pop Smoke’s continuing evolution in music might have looked like.
- “Tell The Vision” features Kanye West and Pusha T in a track that brilliantly weaves together verses underscored by Pop Smoke’s unmistakable vigor.
- “Woo Baby” pairs Pop Smoke with Chris Brown for a melodic loop that’s both catchy and resonant.
- And then there’s “Demeanor”, featuring Dua Lipa, which offers a pop-infused vista, further highlighting the eclectic range of Pop Smoke’s artistic reach.
This breadth of artistry resulted in “Faith” peaking at number one on the Billboard 200. However, I’ve noticed a divide in fan reception. Some praise the album for its exploration and experimentation, while others feel the features and production lean away from what Pop Smoke’s core fans loved about his earlier work.
Underneath the collaborative expanse, what’s clear is the foundation of Pop Smoke’s sound. The gritty, vibrant New York drill essence that propelled him to fame still pulses through tracks like “Beat the Speaker” and “Brush Em”, maintaining a connection to his roots amidst the exploration of new territory. “Faith” is a complex layering of potential futures, a simultaneous celebration of what was and a wistful glance at what might have been.
4. The Woo (with 50 Cent & Roddy Ricch)
When you’re diving into Pop Smoke’s discography, “The Woo” with 50 Cent & Roddy Ricch is a track that stands out for its magnetic pull. It’s not just a song – it’s a moment. Featured on Pop Smoke’s posthumous album “Shoot for the Stars Aim for the Moon”, “The Woo” captures the essence of Pop Smoke’s unique sound while merging seamlessly with the signature styles of 50 Cent and Roddy Ricch.
“The Woo” hit the charts with undeniable force, peaking at number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100. It became a fan favorite, and its commercial success is a testament to the cross-generational appeal Pop Smoke had begun to master.
Key Aspects of “The Woo”:
- Catchy hooks that resonate with listeners
- A compelling collaboration between artists
- Lyrics that balance braggadocio with vulnerability
The production of “The Woo” deserves a nod as it weaves rich beats with melodic lines, creating an atmosphere that’s both celebratory and introspective. This track exemplifies how Pop Smoke was adept at integrating elements from different genres – in this case, R&B influences – into his predominantly drill-centric catalog.
While exploring his artistry through this song, it becomes clear that Pop Smoke had an innate ability to bring together different sounds and audiences. One might speculate that “The Woo” could have been the gateway to even more mainstream success had his career not been prematurely cut short.
As I dissect the depth of this track, it’s crucial to note how the featured artists, 50 Cent and Roddy Ricch, contribute to its storytelling, adding layers to the narrative and complementing Pop Smoke’s rugged delivery. Their contribution is not just an addition – it’s an integration that elevates the entire piece.
Overall, “The Woo” stands as a sturdy pillar in Pop Smoke’s musical legacy, showcasing his potential to innovate within the genre while respecting its roots. It’s a musical blend that comes from a place of profound talent, and it continues to echo in the hearts of many.
5. Conclusion
Pop Smoke’s albums are a testament to his enduring legacy and the indelible mark he left on the music industry. “The Woo” is just one example of his innovative approach to blending genres, and it’s clear why this track resonates so deeply with fans. His work continues to impact artists and listeners alike, proving that Pop Smoke’s influence will be felt for years to come. As I reflect on his discography, it’s evident that his music wasn’t just about the beats—it was a movement, a moment in time that will forever be etched in hip-hop history.