What’s Crackin (feat. Takeoff)

Pop Smoke's 'What’s Crackin' (feat. Takeoff)' is a raw and unfiltered glimpse into the harsh realities of street life and the unwavering loyalty that binds those within it. The song's repetitive chorus, 'Pull up, what's crackin'? / Pull up, what happened? / A lot of guns and automatics,' sets a tone of constant vigilance and readiness for conflict. This refrain underscores the ever-present threat of violence and the need to be prepared for any situation, a common theme in the genre of drill music, which Pop Smoke was a prominent figure in.

The verses delve deeper into the personal experiences and mindset of the artists. Pop Smoke's lines, 'Tell my shooters call me FaceTime / 'Cause we already done faced time,' highlight the intersection of technology and street culture, where communication is crucial for survival. The mention of 'Free D-Nice, he doin' state time' reflects the reality of friends and associates being incarcerated, a frequent occurrence in their environment. Pop Smoke's loyalty to his crew is evident as he declares his willingness to provide protection and support, 'You need the blicky, you can take mine.'

Takeoff's verse continues the narrative of street life, emphasizing the consequences of crossing them, 'Pick up that fire and I'm blastin' / It wasn't no need to hit 'em with the ratchet / So, fuck it, I smack 'em.' His reference to 'I'ma go Kanye 'bout mine' suggests a fierce determination to defend his own, drawing a parallel to Kanye West's outspoken and assertive nature. The imagery of 'My jewelry's too cold, you catchin' pneumonia / I took the beat and I gave it corona' uses contemporary references to convey the impact and dominance they wield in their world.

The song is a testament to the gritty realities of street life, where loyalty, readiness for conflict, and the pursuit of respect and survival are paramount. It paints a vivid picture of the environment that shaped Pop Smoke and Takeoff, offering listeners a window into their world through powerful and evocative lyrics.