Pop Smoke’s brief but impactful career left a lasting impression on the world of hip-hop. His distinct voice and pioneering approach to Brooklyn drill music made him a star in his own right. Although his life was tragically cut short in 2020, his music continues to resonate with fans worldwide. Here are the top 10 songs by Pop Smoke that define his legacy and solidify his place in hip-hop history.
1. “Dior” (2019)
“Dior” is one of Pop Smoke’s most iconic tracks and is widely considered a drill anthem. The song, with its infectious beat and catchy hook, became a staple in Pop Smoke’s catalog. Released as part of Meet the Woo, “Dior” captured the rapper’s swagger and elevated him to mainstream success. The song’s impact was immense, earning millions of streams and becoming one of his signature tracks.
2. “What You Know Bout Love” (2020)
A departure from the hard-edged drill sound, “What You Know Bout Love” featured Pop Smoke experimenting with a more melodic approach. The song became a crossover hit, showcasing his versatility and broadening his appeal. With its smooth production and Pop Smoke’s signature baritone vocals, the track reached the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100, further cementing his status as a major figure in rap.
3. “For the Night” feat. Lil Baby & DaBaby (2020)
Featured on Shoot for the Stars Aim for the Moon, “For the Night” was a star-studded collaboration that became one of Pop Smoke’s most successful singles. The track brought together Lil Baby and DaBaby alongside Pop Smoke, creating a banger that resonated with both drill fans and mainstream audiences. The song’s success on the charts, peaking at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100, made it one of his most iconic tracks.
4. “Welcome to the Party” (2019)
As one of Pop Smoke’s breakout singles, “Welcome to the Party” introduced his signature drill sound to a wide audience. The track’s hard-hitting beat and aggressive delivery made it an instant hit. It was a key moment in Pop Smoke’s career, earning him recognition as one of the pioneers of the Brooklyn drill scene. “Welcome to the Party” remains one of his most recognizable songs to this day.
5. “Mood Swings” feat. Lil Tjay (2020)
“Mood Swings,” featuring Lil Tjay, was one of the standout tracks from Shoot for the Stars Aim for the Moon. The song’s blend of smooth melodies and catchy hooks made it a commercial success, with the track reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. It also became a fan favorite, showcasing Pop Smoke’s ability to blend his drill roots with a more radio-friendly sound.
6. “Christopher Walking” (2020)
“Christopher Walking,” a track from Meet the Woo 2, was another major hit for Pop Smoke. The song is known for its hard-hitting production and Pop Smoke’s signature vocal delivery. “Christopher Walking” became a fan favorite and showcased his consistency in producing bangers that stayed true to the drill genre while appealing to a broader audience.
7. “Aim for the Moon” feat. Quavo (2020)
“Aim for the Moon,” featuring Quavo, was one of the standout collaborations on Meet the Woo 2. The song was a perfect blend of Pop Smoke’s drill sound and Quavo’s melodic touch, creating a hit that appealed to fans of both artists. The track’s catchy hook and infectious beat helped it chart on the Billboard Hot 100, further solidifying Pop Smoke’s position in mainstream rap.
8. “Gatti” feat. Travis Scott (2020)
Pop Smoke’s collaboration with Travis Scott on “Gatti” was a standout moment in his career. The song, which appeared on JackBoys (Travis Scott’s compilation album), brought together two of hip-hop’s biggest stars. “Gatti” blends Pop Smoke’s drill roots with Travis Scott’s signature production, creating a track that became an instant hit and further solidified Pop Smoke’s presence in the rap scene.
9. “Something Special” (2020)
“Something Special” from Shoot for the Stars Aim for the Moon is a standout track that shows Pop Smoke’s ability to balance hard-hitting drill beats with emotional depth. The song’s introspective lyrics and smooth production showcase his versatility and ability to create songs with substance. “Something Special” became a fan favorite, with many praising its emotional resonance.
10. “The Woo” feat. 50 Cent & Roddy Ricch (2020)
“The Woo” was one of the most anticipated collaborations of 2020, featuring legends 50 Cent and Roddy Ricch alongside Pop Smoke. The track, which appeared on Shoot for the Stars Aim for the Moon, was a perfect fusion of Pop Smoke’s drill style and the contributions of 50 Cent and Roddy Ricch. “The Woo” became a chart-topping hit, and its smooth, catchy vibe made it one of the standout tracks on the album.
Pop Smoke’s music continues to inspire and influence artists across genres. His ability to blend drill music with mainstream appeal, while staying true to his Brooklyn roots, made him a standout in the rap game. These top 10 songs are a testament to his talent and lasting impact on the world of hip-hop.
