Nicki Minaj, 50 Cent, Quavo, & YG Pay Tribute to Pop Smoke

Pop Smoke died at the age of 20 in a home invasion robbery.

In the wake of his murder in Los Angeles on Wednesday morning, the hip-hop community has taken to social media to mourn the devastating loss of one of hip-hop’s most promising newcomers.

Nicki Minaj, who collaborated with the Brooklyn MC on the remix to “Welcome to the Party,” paid tribute to her friend along with a cryptic reference to his killers in her caption. “The Bible tells us that jealousy is as cruel as the grave. Unbelievable. Rest In Peace, Pop,” she wrote.

50 Cent also honored the young MC, who The New York Times hailed as “Brooklyn Rap’s Homecoming King.” “R.I.P to my man Pop Smoke, No sympathy for winners. 🕊God bless him,” said 50.

Ludacris reflected on a rising star gone too soon and called for an end to the violence. “Man Come On I don’t even know dude but he was just getting started in this Rap Game,” he said. “I was definitely interested in seeing his Growth. Too many young lives with so much potential being taken away. This Shit has to stop 🛑 🙏🏽 R.I.P. Pop Smoke.”

Quavo, who recently collaborated with Pop on his Meet the Woo 2 track “Shake the Room,” also shared a recent text message conversation they had. “Got To Kno This Kid!” said the Migos rapper. “Very Talented Humble Respectful And Appreciative Always Ask Questions Big Sponge To Knowledge Fast Learning Young Boss And The Huncho Was Here To Share That Anytime You Called Me! R.I.P.”

Another friend of Pop’s, Tyga, recalled their last conversation. “Damn bro just talked to u.💔Can’t believe it.you was on yo way. You was a real star bro. Yo energy was crazy. We needed ur energy n sound! Rest In Peace broski.”

Pop Smoke also received love from the West Coast including YG. “You was jus getting started!” said the Compton MC, while Snoop Dogg added, “damn I’m hurt all ova again.”

Others including Nas, The Game, Meek Mill, Gunna, and Swae Lee shared their condolences and disbelief over his death. See some of the tributes below.