In a new joint statement, Pop Smoke’s family and his former manager Steven Victor have announced that they will continue to honor the late rapper’s legacy with posthumous music releases throughout this year. Pop’s full-length album and a documentary about his life are both reportedly in the works.
“Bashar ‘Pop Smoke’ Jackson — so genuine, bright, loving, and so full of promise. A rare soul, wise beyond his yeas whose smile, voice, mere presence would brighten the room,” the statement from Victor and the Jackson family read. “He was all the things one could hope for in an artist, friend, leader and partner. Pop’s passing leaves us all broken hearted with a wound that will never heal.”
“The public show of support and grief, by everyone touched by Pop during his lifetime, has provided some semblance of comfort during these difficult times for his family, friends and colleagues,” it continued. “Throughout the next year we will be sharing new music, as we continue to work to build Pop’s legacy. In conjunction with his estate we will be making formal announcements on his foundation and music projects. We love him so much and miss him dearly.”
Victor previously revealed to Complex that he has had a hand in developing both Pop’s posthumous album and his documentary.
“I’m working really, really hard on this Pop Smoke album,” he told the outlet. “And I’m working on a documentary for him, too. And his foundation.”
Pop’s posthumous LP was first announced back in March by 50 Cent, who said he’d be taking on the role as executive producer to finish the project. The New York-bred multi-hyphen subsequently recruited the likes of Roddy Ricch and Post Malone for the album, although no features have been confirmed.
Pop was tragically killed in a home invasion back in February. The 20-year-old rapper’s forthcoming posthumous release will follow his Meet the Woo and Meet the Woo 2 projects. See the full statement from Victor and Pop’s family below.