Pop Smoke was an entertainer hailing from Brooklyn, New York. The twenty-year-old rapper’s life and career was cut short during a heinous act of violence in February 2020. Before his untimely death Pop Smoke was considered to be apart of XXL magazine’s “Freshman Class 2020”. 50 Cent (also a New Yorker) often endorsed Pop Smoke’s music and became the executive producer of his final project. Pop Smoke has also collaborated with an array of artists, including Roddy Rich, Chris Brown, and Quavo of the Migos.
The deluxe edition of Shoot For The Stars, Aim For the Moon became available to fans on July 20, 2020. The thirty-four track album mostly contains heavy-based bangers. After the short but sweet intro “Bad B**ch From Tokyo” comes “Aim for the Moon” featuring Quavo. The song’s theme is emphasized by layered drum machine effects. You will also find a cluster of edgy, ballad-like records such as “For the Night”. Lil Baby and DaBaby jointly advocate Pop’s choice to indulge in sensuality for a limited time. The guys all have glamorous images, hence needing to avoid being targeted for capital gains. Riffs from a Spanish guitar introduces listeners to “The Woo” which features 50 Cent and Roddy Rich. This moderato track will incite a two-step in young and old people alike. Lil Tjay provides auto-tuned vocals in “Mood Swings”, a love song dedicated to Pop Smoke’s hot-tempered girlfriend. She is alluring, voluptuous, and spoiled but he does not hesitate to fulfill her heart’s desires. “Dior” is not only a party anthem but also an ode to one of Pop Smoke’s favorite clothing designers. His sophisticated swagger and street demeanor entice women to act on their desires. Staggered basslines and synthetic instrumentals create the perfect backdrop. While in the “Hotel Lobby” Pop Smoke hears rumors of a plot to bereave him of his possessions. He is apprehensive but prepared to stand his ground. The aforementioned track explains the root of Pop Smoke’s “Paranoia”. He is joined by Young Thug and Gunna whose verses reveal similar concerns for their own well fair.
808 Melo produced the majority of the album, which explains it’s repetitious nature. Shoot For The Stars, Aim For the Moon was released on what would have been Pop Smoke’s twenty-first birthday. He will be remembered for his distinctive raspy voice, work ethic, and rapid rise to stardom.
Rating: 6.0/10
