Pop Smoke’s death continues to send ripples throughout the hip-hop community, with many still reeling over his stolen youth and promise. With , it’s likely that the circumstances surrounding his murder will only get clearer in time. While authorities work on piecing the narrative together, his label Republic Records have taken to social media to issue a statement on the artist’s passing. 

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“We are devastated by the unexpected and tragic loss of [Pop Smoke],” reads the statement. “Our prayers and thoughts go out to his family, friends and fans, as we mourn this loss together.” Mere weeks ago, Smoke dropped off Meet The Woo 2, a project that would go on to become his final album. In its first week, Meet The Woo 2 performed admirably, selling 36,000 album-equivalent units and sliding comfortably into the fourth spot on the Billboard charts. As is often the case, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Pop Smoke’s numbers rise following his murder — a bittersweet consequence to be sure. 

Alongside Pop Smoke, Republic Records is also home to Casanova, 9lokknine, Drake, , , Lil Wayne, Lil West, Metro Boomin, , , Rich The Kid, , , and many more.