Pop Smoke’s Family Opens Coffee Shop ‘Pop’s Place’ in Brooklyn
Pop Smoke’s family is brewing up a new venture in Brooklyn, transforming the late rapper’s legacy into a tangible community space. Announced earlier this week, Pop’s Place, a coffee shop, is slated to open soon in the Canarsie neighborhood, offering a place for fans and locals alike to connect and remember the artist.
The initiative, spearheaded by Pop Smoke’s brother, Obasi Jackson, aims to honor his memory and give back to the community that nurtured his early talent. Jackson shared the news on Instagram, announcing that Pop’s Place is currently seeking experienced baristas “ready to be part of something special.”
A Community Hub Rooted in Remembrance
The coffee shop isn’t simply a business endeavor; it’s deeply connected to the Shoot for the Stars Foundation, the nonprofit organization launched in Pop Smoke’s honor. According to reports, Pop’s Place will contribute to the foundation’s efforts, furthering its mission within the Brooklyn community. Pop Smoke’s mother, Audrey Jackson, and entrepreneur Jasmine Smith are also actively involved in bringing the project to life, demonstrating a family-wide commitment to preserving his legacy. You can find more details about the Shoot for the Stars Foundation on Instagram.
The choice of Canarsie is particularly significant. It’s the neighborhood where Pop Smoke, born Bashar Barakah Jackson, grew up and where his musical journey began. Establishing Pop’s Place there feels like a deliberate act of returning home, embedding his memory within the fabric of the community that first embraced his artistry.
Pop Smoke’s Rise and Untimely Loss
Bashar “Pop Smoke” Jackson burst onto the drill music scene in 2019 with a distinctive deep voice and raw, energetic delivery. Tracks like “Dior” and “Welcome to the Party” quickly gained traction, propelling him to national prominence. He released his debut mixtape, Meet the Woo, in 2019, followed by his critically acclaimed debut album, Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon, in July 2020 – released posthumously after his tragic death.
Pop Smoke’s life was cut short on February 19, 2020, when he was fatally shot during a home invasion in the Hollywood Hills. The case drew significant media attention, and ultimately led to the conviction of several individuals. Corey Walker, considered the oldest participant in the crime, received a 29-year prison sentence, while the 15-year-old triggerman was sentenced to 50 years to life, though subject to California’s juvenile detention laws. The details of the case, as reported by XXL, underscore the senselessness of his loss and the ongoing pursuit of justice.
Beyond the Music: Maintaining a Cultural Impact
Even after his death, Pop Smoke’s influence has remained potent. His music continues to resonate with fans, and his estate has overseen the release of additional posthumous tracks and projects. The opening of Pop’s Place represents another layer in the effort to solidify his legacy, moving beyond music to create a lasting physical presence in his hometown.
This isn’t the first time the Jackson family has actively worked to preserve Pop Smoke’s memory. Obasi Jackson has been vocal about the need for greater support from the music industry, expressing frustration over perceived lack of engagement from certain figures. He recently spoke on a podcast about the need for more support for the “tandem” – a reference to the collective efforts surrounding Pop Smoke’s estate and legacy.
Industry Response and Continued Tributes
The announcement of Pop’s Place has been met with widespread enthusiasm online, with fans celebrating the initiative as a fitting tribute to the late rapper. Hypebeast highlighted the opening as a significant moment for the family and the Canarsie community. Hip-Hop Wired also covered the story, emphasizing the coffee shop’s connection to the Shoot for the Stars Foundation. Read more on Hip-Hop Wired.
The Source also reported on the opening, noting the significance of the location in Brooklyn and the family’s dedication to honoring Pop Smoke’s spirit. Find the full story at The Source.
The opening of Pop’s Place isn’t just a business venture; it’s a testament to the enduring power of Pop Smoke’s music and the unwavering commitment of his family to keep his memory alive. It’s a space designed to foster community, provide opportunity, and honor the legacy of a young artist who left an indelible mark on the music world.
What’s next for Pop’s Place? The coffee shop is actively hiring, and an official opening date is expected to be announced soon. The Jackson family and Jasmine Smith are focused on creating a welcoming and vibrant space that reflects Pop Smoke’s energy and spirit, solidifying his place in the heart of Canarsie for years to come.