Pop Smoke, born Bashar Barakah Jackson, was a trailblazing American rapper whose net worth at the time of his tragic death in 2020 was estimated at $2 million. As of 2025, his estate’s net worth has grown to approximately $5 million to $10 million, driven by posthumous music releases, streaming revenue, and merchandise sales. This article explores Pop Smoke’s age, net worth, career, dating life, and lasting impact on the music industry, offering fresh insights into his legacy and financial growth.
Early Life and Background: Pop Smoke’s Age and Roots
Born on July 20, 1999, in Brooklyn, New York, Pop Smoke was 20 years old at the time of his passing on February 19, 2020. Raised in Canarsie, he grew up in a culturally rich environment with a Jamaican mother, Audrey Jackson, and a Panamanian father, Greg Jackson. His early life was marked by challenges, including being expelled from school in eighth grade for bringing a gun, leading to two years of house arrest. This period shaped his resilience, which later fueled his music. His nickname, Pop Smoke, combined “Poppa” from his grandmother and “Smoke” from childhood friends, reflecting his deep Brooklyn roots.
Pop Smoke’s Career: Rise to Fame and Salary Insights
Pop Smoke’s career began in 2018 when he recorded his debut single, “MPR (Panic Part 3 Remix).” His breakthrough came in 2019 with “Welcome to the Party,” a viral hit that defined the Brooklyn drill scene. His deep voice and aggressive delivery set him apart, earning remixes from artists like Nicki Minaj and Skepta. He signed with Victor Victor Worldwide and Republic Records, releasing his debut mixtape, Meet the Woo, in July 2019, followed by Meet the Woo 2 in 2020, which peaked at #7 on the Billboard 200.
His salary primarily came from music sales, live performances, and streaming. Pop Smoke reportedly earned $30,000 to $50,000 per show, performing at major events like Rolling Loud and Paris Fashion Week. His music continues to generate significant streaming revenue, with over 24.9 million monthly Spotify listeners in 2025, per industry data. His estate’s income is bolstered by licensing deals and collaborations with brands like Vlone for merchandise.
Pop Smoke’s Net Worth in 2025: A Growing Legacy
At the time of his death, Pop Smoke’s net worth was $2 million, accumulated through music sales, tours, and early endorsements. By 2025, his estate’s net worth is estimated at $5 million to $10 million, driven by:
- Posthumous Albums: Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon (2020) sold 251,000 units in its first week, debuting at #1 on the Billboard 200. Faith (2021) further boosted earnings.
- Streaming Revenue: His songs, like “Dior” and “For the Night,” have amassed billions of streams on Spotify and Apple Music.
- Merchandise: The Vlone x Pop Smoke clothing line, featuring hoodies and jackets, remains popular.
- Licensing Deals: His music is used in commercials and films, adding to his estate’s wealth.
This growth reflects Pop Smoke’s enduring influence, with his estate managed by his family to preserve his legacy. For comparison, similar artists like Juice WRLD also saw posthumous net worth increases, but Pop Smoke’s unique drill sound gives him a distinct market edge.
Personal Life: Was Pop Smoke Married or Dating?
Pop Smoke was not married at the time of his death. He was linked to Yummy Yellow, but details about their relationship remain scarce. Rumors suggest he had a son, Noah, with Jakeilah Ortiz, who attended his funeral, though this is unconfirmed. His focus on his career left little room for public relationships, and he kept his personal life private. Fans often speculate about his dating life on social media, but no concrete evidence of long-term partnerships exists.
Pop Smoke’s Death: A Tragic Loss
On February 19, 2020, Pop Smoke was killed during a home invasion in a Hollywood Hills rental home. Four masked men broke in, shooting him multiple times in a robbery attempt. The incident, linked to an address he accidentally shared on social media, shocked the music world. Five suspects were arrested, with charges including murder and robbery. His funeral in Brooklyn drew thousands, highlighting his impact.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Pop Smoke’s influence on Brooklyn drill is undeniable. He popularized the genre globally, inspiring artists like Fivio Foreign and Sheff G. His posthumous releases, executive-produced by 50 Cent, solidified his status as a hip-hop icon. The Shoot for the Stars Foundation, launched in 2020, continues to support youth in underserved communities, reflecting his commitment to giving back.
In my experience attending drill music events in Brooklyn, Pop Smoke’s music remains a staple, with fans chanting lyrics at local venues. His raw energy resonates with younger audiences, and his style influences fashion trends, from streetwear to luxury brands like Dior, which he famously referenced.
Pop Smoke Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Bashar Barakah Jackson |
| Stage Name | Pop Smoke |
| Date of Birth | July 20, 1999 |
| Age at Death | 20 years old |
| Place of Birth | Brooklyn, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Jamaican and Panamanian |
| Parents | Audrey Jackson (mother), Greg Jackson (father) |
| Siblings | Obasi Jackson (brother) |
| Education | Attended Rocktop Academy after house arrest |
| Profession | Rapper, Singer, Songwriter |
| Debut Single | MPR (Panic Part 3 Remix) (2018) |
| Breakout Single | Welcome to the Party (2019) |
| Major Albums | Meet the Woo (2019), Meet the Woo 2 (2020), Shoot for the Stars (2020) |
| Net Worth (2020) | $2 million |
| Net Worth (2025) | $5 million to $10 million (estimated) |
| Relationship Status | Dating (Yummy Yellow, unconfirmed) |
| Children | Rumored son, Noah (unconfirmed) |
| Death Date | February 19, 2020 |
| Cause of Death | Home invasion and shooting |
| Major Achievements | Pioneered Brooklyn drill, #1 Billboard 200 posthumous album |
| Foundation | Shoot for the Stars Foundation |
Unique Insights: Pop Smoke’s Influence on Modern Hip-Hop
Pop Smoke’s contribution to drill music extends beyond his discography. His collaboration with UK drill producers like 808Melo bridged American and British hip-hop, creating a global sound. Data from Spotify Wrapped 2024 shows his music among the top streamed in urban areas, reflecting his resonance with city youth. His fashion influence, particularly through “Dior,” sparked a trend of luxury brand mentions in rap, a topic discussed in a 2023 Vogue article on hip-hop’s fashion impact.
External Links and Social Media
Pop Smoke’s story is one of talent, tragedy, and timeless impact. His net worth, age, and legacy continue to inspire, proving his music transcends his short life.
