From the streets to the studio, Mr. Popalot has been on a mission to make his mark in the music world, and he’s doing it with relentless passion. Raised on the sounds of legends like 2Pac, Biggie, Snoop Dogg, and E-40, his musical roots run deep. “When I was younger, I was always a fan of music,” he recalls, speaking on the artists that inspired him to pursue a career in hip hop. His journey began at just 15 years old, writing his first hook and verse while in a juvenile camp. His passion only grew from there, but it wasn’t until years later, at 19, when his first real taste of success came. His homies in the hood were vibing to his tracks, blasting them on their chirps, and he knew he was on to something. “It was hot!” he says with a grin.
By 2021, Mr. Popalot’s career truly took off. He met a younger homie in the neighborhood who insisted he jump on a track with him. “We started hanging out, he had his own studio, and I finally agreed to give it a shot,” he explains. What came next was the spark that ignited his drive to pursue music full-time. “I never looked back,” he adds.
When asked to describe his style, Mr. Popalot humbly likens himself to the iconic figures who shaped his sound—a blend of Suga Free’s slick delivery, Snoop Dogg’s laid-back flow, and E-40’s unique cadence. But above all, it’s his authenticity that shines through in his music. “I speak from the spirit,” he explains. “Everything I rap about, I’ve done and experienced. It’s all real, no fabrication. That’s what people want to hear.”
However, the road to success hasn’t been easy. Mr. Popalot has faced his share of challenges, including a fallout with a close rap partner. “I just had a situation where someone I trusted went behind my back and took down our mixtape,” he shares. Despite the setback, he’s determined to keep moving forward, using his experiences to fuel his creativity. Expect a “sneak diss” in the future, he warns with a laugh.
On a brighter note, his music video for “I Broke Her” is currently in rotation on BET Jams, a milestone that continues to push him towards bigger achievements. His second video, “Get the Money,” was also a success, proving that he’s just getting started.
Driven by the desire to make a difference, Mr. Popalot is also focused on giving back. “My first prison term opened my eyes. Seeing lifers who will never go home, I knew I had to change my path,” he says. Inspired to help at-risk youth, he’s working on launching his own mentorship program, already having registered the LLC. “I’ve got seven kids and one on the way—that’s all the motivation I need,” he adds.
While he’s grateful for the success he’s achieved, Mr. Popalot knows the fight is far from over. He’s learned to keep his circle small, surrounded by childhood friends who have always had his back. “Trust issues are real, man,” he admits. “And the haters are everywhere, especially the ones closest to you. But I’ve got my eyes open, always.”
Stay tuned for more from Mr. Popalot!
Check out his new single “I Broke Her” on all platforms!
Follow him on Instagram @mr.16th_letter
