_naturallymari3, Mar 31, 2021
Hello Beautiful people, welcome back to my channel! If
you’re new here welcome welcome welcome! Today I’ll be showing you how I
achieved these pop smoke braids. I’ll also be showing how I achieved the
stitched look. This is my first attempt at pop smoke braids, so please leave me
feedback on how you think I did! All items used are below in the description,
any questions or request drop them in the comments. I hope you enjoy this
video, see you next time.
ITEMS USED
Black Panther Edge Control local beauty supply
Shine and Jam Magic fingers- local beauty supply
Rat Tail Comb or edge brush with comb - local beauty supply
or Amazon
Rubber Bands
Rat Tail comb
Lotta body mousse
****
Edited by Azizi Powell
This post presents selected comments from the discussion threads of a 2021 YouTube video and a 2024 YouTube podcast. These two YouTube examples present some opinions from Black American men about that population wearing their hair in Pop Smoke braids (or in that braiding styles with other names before they were called "Pop Smoke" braids.)
Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2025/11/comments-about-black-american-men.html for Part I of this pancocojams series. This post also presents selected comments from that podcast's discussion thread of Black American men discussing that population wearing their hair in locs (dreads/dreadlocks) hairstyles.
The content of this post is presented for historical and socio-cultural purposes.
Thanks to King Brill and thanks to all those who participated in this discussion, particularly those whose comments are quoted in this pancocojams discussion thread.
****
These quotes about this unisex hairstyles are given in no particular order. Numbers are added for referencing purposes only.
Quote #1
From https://www.ulahair.com/art/a-comprehensive-guide-to-pop-smoke-braids-a0160.html?srsltid=AfmBOoolfGB5ZL9Oxg4KFFhNIiXbdxaACaRhzas1NkCy2tSQs3ZC5Mv0 A Comprehensive Guide To Pop Smoke Braids [no publishing date given]
..."Pop Smoke was an American rapper known for his unique style and distinctive look. One of the prominent aspects of his appearance was his hairstyle, commonly referred to as "Pop Smoke braids" or "Pop Smoke hairstyle."
Pop Smoke typically sported a hairstyle that the hair is closely woven to the scalp in rows with a signature middle part. Pop Smoke Braids are often long and thin, extending down to the shoulders or beyond. Pop Smoke Braids typically come in 4 groups on each side of the head.
The braids were a key part of Pop Smoke's aesthetic and became one of his signature looks. Many fans and admirers of his style have also adopted similar braided hairstyles as a tribute to him."..
**
Quote #2
From "AI Overview" November 21, 2025
"Pop Smoke braids are a style of cornrows, typically
featuring eight jumbo braids arranged with a center part—four braids on each
side—named after the late rapper Pop Smoke. This unisex style can be worn with
or without hair extensions and is considered a protective style that requires
less daily grooming and can help prevent hair breakage.
Structure: The style typically consists of eight large
braids, four on each side of a distinct middle part.
Variations: You can get them with or without extensions,
with or without beads, and in different lengths.
Origin: The name comes from the late rapper Pop Smoke, who
popularized the style.
Maintenance: It is a protective hairstyle that reduces daily
styling time and can help reduce hair breakage.
**
Quote #3
From AI Overview [November 22, 2025-results for my question "What are the differences between Pop Smoke braids and box braids?]
"The main difference is that Pop Smoke braids are a specific
style that often incorporates chunky, neat cornrows with a symmetrical, defined
look, while box braids are a broader category of individual braids that are
sectioned into squares on the scalp. Pop Smoke braids are a variation inspired
by the late rapper's signature style, and they can include other braiding
techniques like twists or variations in partings, whereas box braids are the
classic, individual plaiting style.
Box braids
Definition: A catch-all term for individual braids created
by sectioning the hair into four-sided or "box" shapes on the scalp
and then braiding extensions with the natural hair.
Characteristics: Can be any size, color, and length; they
have a distinct knot at the root where the braiding begins.
Variations: Can be styled in various ways, such as in a
ponytail, bun, or half-up/half-down style.
Pop Smoke braids
Definition: A specific style that has become a cultural
phenomenon, often featuring chunky, neat cornrows, symmetrical parts
(frequently with a center part), and defined sections.
Characteristics: Known for a clean, structured, and
sometimes elongated face-framing effect.
Variations: Modern interpretations can include creative
partings, different braiding techniques (like twists), and colorful extensions,
but they are rooted in the original cornrow-based style that was inspired by
the late rapper.
Connection to the rapper: The style is a tribute to the late
rapper Pop Smoke and is associated with hip-hop culture"
****
SELECTED COMMENTS FROM THE DISCUSSION THREAD FOR VIDEO #1
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LABIwST6d8I
These comments are given in chronological order based on their publishing date, except for replies. Numbers are added for referencing purposes only.
2021
1. @eljae507
"They call them pop smokes now, in my era they were called
gangstas. Oh well time changes, they still fresh tho 💯"
**
Reply
2. @Naturallymari3
"Right times have changed! Thank you so much!"
**
Reply
3. @teaminfiniti4105
"Yeah all respect to Pop, but I was thinking the same thing.
It's more of a name change, because history always repeats itself. Respect to
the Woo!"
**
Reply
4. @theblakbleach
"long before these were the"pop smokes" they were
the Xzibit's..... X been rocked these"
**
Reply
5. @Naturallymari3
"@theblakbleach I’m aware, there are ton of others before
Xzibit that also rocked them…🤷🏾♀️"
**
Reply
6. @teaminfiniti4105
"@theblakbleach Funny thing is, I have a pic of my uncle from
the late 60"s, early 70's and he had them. Braids are braids"
**
Reply
7.@samanthacaine5029
"@theblakbleach .....I REMEMBER THEM AS LIL FLIP BRAIDS..."
**
Reply
8. .@everythingj3882
"@theblakbleach say it LOUDER FOR THE PEOPLE IN THE BACK!!. 💯"
**
Reply
9. @lovellbinns86
"🔥🔥🔥 they call em pop smoke braids but in my
earlier days these was the Xzibits lol."
**
Reply
10. @nardo34480
"Or lil flip... they millennial what you expect"
**
11. @kendrickdawson1053
"Pop smoke braids I guess.. I'm from a different era so when
I see those braids I thank of LIL FLIP from Houston TX.."
**
Reply
12. @marcusrobinson2965
"Lil Flip was the 1st to rock them braids."
**
Reply
13. @randelldickerson6147
"Actually X- zibit the west coast rapper had that hairstyle
first. It was one of my favorites.."
**
14. @USOMACKIN83
"In my generation these were Xzibit braids"
**
Reply
15. @antoniologan5043
"That's what I was going to say I used to rock them braids
when exhibit was out we called him Vivid braids"
**
Reply
16.@DeeSlimVision
"We always called these west sides in VA"
**
Reply
17. @Igotit4cheep,2024
"Wea I'm from they called southsides"
**
18. @fungalcream3814
"Some of the crispiest braids i ever seen"
**
Reply
19.@__Naturallymari3
"Thank you so much!! ❤️"
**
20. @kellyatairu137
"Great job! R.I.P Pop Smoke 💙"
**
Reply
21. @Naturallymari3
"Thank you so much! ❤️"
**
22. @braidsbyfauvefrancine8296
"He definitely rocked these braids 👌"
**
23. @ZachariaYonis
"no idea who pop smoke is but it reminds me of Xzibit braids"
****
2022
24. @bushidobrown6707
"Pop smoke? naw dem the Lil Flips, flip had dem forever"
**
25. @87longhairdontcare
"Shout out the OG XZIBIT for those braids. Pop
who?"
**
26. @unknownterror18
"Good Braiding skills"
**
Reply
27.@Naturallymari3
'Thank you so much! ❤️"
28. @d1wav, 2023
"
**
29. @MRwilliejoyner, 2024
"Baltimore been rocking this style before pop smoke was born"
****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #2-5 Hairstyles You Should Give Up To Look More Mature
AI-generated video summary:
"King Bril honestly shares five hairstyles to avoid for a more mature look. The grooming expert offers opinions based on personal experience, conversations with others, and observations from HR professionals. Discover styling tips and tricks to maximize one's hair potential."
-snip-
Read my editorial notes in Part I of this pancocojams series about the overwhelming negative reactions most commenters had to this podcast. Some of those reactions are found in these comments in this post's compilation.
****
SELECTED COMMENTS FROM THE DISCUSSION THREAD FOR VIDEO #2
Numbers are added for referencing purposes only.
2024
1. @jasonp5438
"Take away from this;
1. conform to society’s idea of what beauty is
2. hide your identity
3. Please others"
**
Reply
2. @RealRamRamInThecut
"@BloodLeopard-rm8wg facts I’m from nyc out here people do not care how you dress how you look as long as you don’t stink it’s whatever everyone pretty much mind their business he gives off middle off America little town energy"
**
Reply
3. @iPlatano07
"Yeah just dont get mad when someone judges the way your hair
looks😂"
**
Reply
4. @baddnewz8779
"@RealRamRamInThecut Washington state is the
same , I can say its performance over image as it should be."
**
5. @SeveredWorldLore
"This stuff doesn't matter unless you're trying to please
the whyit man. If you're predominantly with your brothas and sistas then you
can rock whatever you want. Naturally, not everyone woman is going to like
every look and perception is more so based on stuff like personality and
interests. Don't conform and fight against the system my brothas."
Reply
6.
"👏 ❤"
**
Reply
7.@jasonp5438
"This."
**
Reply
8. @lenatunji
"Why’d you click the video than"
**
Reply
9. @DrummerBoyPeace
" @lenatunji Because I
saw a black man talking down on black hairstyles while many people would
consider his hairstyle unprofessional too"
-snip-
The podcaster King Brill, wears his hair in locs.
**
Reply
10. @lenatunji
" @DrummerBoyPeace So you just came to cry? Very immature."
**
11. @vrj40
"As long as your brothsas and sistahs are owning the
companies where you will be making a living, of course you don't have to change
a thing.😊"
**
12. @jussjay95
"THE CROWN ACTIS MEANT FOR US #stayunapologeticallyblack"
**
13. @Mr_Bawon
"Agreed 100% with hair dye and especially white chalk. I
somewhat agree and disagree with pop smoke braids"
**
14. @Dontatme25
"Im a do me bruh..😂".
**
15. @outside-scamming
"Them not messing wit the pop smoke braids is crazy"
**
Reply
16. @voornaamachternaam5745, 2025
"ITS ORIGINALLY A GRANNY HAIRSTYLE REMEMBER !"
**
17. @judah2427
"The locks will always be dread by our enemies due to the red
coats trying to colonized Cush."
**
Reply
18. @KingBril
"locks are here to stay."
**
Reply
19. @tyrellspeed771
" @KingBril
So are pop smoke braids. Men can look mature with pop smoke braids in
their 30's, 40's, and 50's. Depends on how he has it styled."
**
20. @tyromt-p6111
"U do know most people do there hair for them
selfs its like saying to a girl with a
weave to stay natural because ur opinions everyone one else😂
but the whit chalc i do agree is something for a kid"
**
Reply
21.@ultragrimx
"Nah that white chalk hair line stye gotta be a local thing.
Ive never seen or heard of anyone honestly doing that or going out in public.
But i agree with the rest of the styles especially the last tip. In corporate
world you have to maintain it properly or you will get the side eye looks."
**
Reply
22. @chrisaisu1618
"Same, when and where
was wearing a white chalk hair line a thing"
**
Reply
23. @ultragrimx
"@chrisaisu1618 I dont think it ever was a thing. Dude who is
a rapper started doing that goofy sh-t* and people made it seem like it
was something."
-snip-
*This word is fully spelled out in this comment.
**
Reply
24. @rashodlewis2918
"That chalk will wash off once you wash your face
and hair. "
**
25. @rocking_will117
"Counter Disclaimer: Do what you want with your hair however,
if your walking around looking like a clown because "I can wear whatever I
want" expect people to treat you as such."
**
Reply
26. @BloodLeopard-rm8wg
"For me life is too short to care what people think, because
at the end of the day it just shows their shallowness and judgmental
personalities, honestly I love doing me and having people show who they are
and how they really feel, that way, I
can avoid them. Not saying that this is you. But I refuse to be a chameleon."
**
Reply
27. @Rockout_clem
"Imagine worrying about what ppl opinions are"
**
28. @naserrari
"i don’t get haircuts or lineups at all & yet i stay
getting compliments on my hair, even from yt ppl"
**
Reply
29. @RealRamRamInThecut
"Facts same when you walk around confident with your head
high people respect that if you notice people that judge the most are always
weak minded people they know who to
judge and not judge"
**
Reply
30. @RealRamRamInThecut
"@naserrari I feel bad for young guys that look up the
people like him 🤦🏽♂️"
**
Reply
31. @KingBril
"different guys got different rules"
**
Reply
32. @KingBril
"@naserrari @realraminthecut i ain't even mention an afro
nor the crispness of a line up ?? most of these tips came from women and yall
mentioning white people. My corporate homies are black.what are you even
talking about. I been representing for BLACK HAIR for years now dont talk like
im some conformist dawg ."
**
Reply
33. @bwill1268
"Honestly same,when I just wash my hair out and comb it out,
going a couple months with out getting a cut or braids, I still get compliments"
**
Reply
34. @TeeJohnson-bv1mj
"So now women determine how we wear our hair 😂😂
Bro women are wearing wigs and weave and if you taking advice from women who
ain’t black on black hair you’re weird KINGBRI. Keep rocking y’all Hair fellas. He would never tell a Hispanic man
or white man or Indian man that"
**
Reply
35. @MB2.0, 2025
"Congrats on saving boatloads of money but you're the
exception bruh 😂😂😂😂😂😂"
**
36. @nnenne4
"I definitely agree with the hair dye. It's not appealing to
me but hey I'm old school."
**
37. @Drawnswordz
"What about the dreaded pineapple man bun?!?! 🍍
😢"
**
38. @mopessos
"Yeah nbs out of all the videos ive seen I think you just
needed some content and made this video.
To all my black brothers wear whatever hair style you want
and learn how to communicate with people that is the only issue."
39.
"I got the Frederick Douglas 😂😂😂"
**
40.@Sheeporino
"I agree that the hair dye is not professional. Also I feel this way towards women too, equality fym"
**
41. @nichsster
"Understandable but ima do what ever with
my hair even if im in a corporate setting ill just make it maintained"
**
42. @thescepterofjudah12
"What I do with the Pop Smoke hairstyle
now (which was the same hairstyle I got in the very early 80's as a child) is
have the stylist link braids into one or two braids to the back. It's more
compact, and looks very mature. It also makes you look as if you have a low
hairstyle. Its funny that you made this video, because I am making the decision
this coming September to grow my hairline back to a full length. I have no
gripes whatsoever with these recommendations!"
**
Reply
43. @MaicanMemesMW10, 2025
"Link as in tie with a hairband? I wanna
get the pop smokes but tie back into a low ponytail type style"
**
44. @816to305
"I’m getting old lol. Y’all call them pop
smokes? I still call them Melo’s!"
**
Reply
45. @yofreak410leek5
"People frome Baltimore was wearing the
breads like pop smoke befor he came out"
46.
"Bruh how does a Ceasar make one look immature? In my opinion
Locks and long hair in general on anyman looks extremely immature. At the end
of the day wear your hair as you see fit. "
**
Reply
47. @japizi
"lol this whole video was cap😭😂"
-snip-
"cap"= a lie; not true
**
48. @Leandre22_02
"You can do whatever you want to do for there’s no rules to
what you want to do with your hair"
Reply
49.
"Young men, you may be bald one day, enjoy your hair whilst
God has blessed you with it. There will be a day it will be gooonnnee😂"
**
Reply
50. @quentinfreeman7516
"Remember, you can do whatever you want, but other people can
also feel how they choose to feel about it, and that might effect you
positively or negatively 😂 "
**
51. @gasbabyzoeja7862
"I’m from south fl u dye your hair down here we gon start
thinking u sugary but dats just where im from"
**
52. @asapq9435
"Bet so the big fro with curls still good and mature? ☝🏽😂"
**
Reply
53. @sludgepls
"👀 we're safe for now"
**
Reply
54. @KingBril
"A well kept curly fro with the fade never
failed... maybe at 40 its too much but idk"
**
55. @Cj-144
"Pop smokes ain no way"
**
56. @dexkato7329
"Hollywood wants black men to rock a Jay-Z hairstyle.
However, corporate America prefers to hire black men who cut their hair like
Obama. At the end of the day, the choice is 100% yours"
**
57.@MaicanMemesMW10
"I think the pop smoke braids only look juvenile/immature is if the braids too short or you don’t have any facial hair, otherwise they are goated especially if you can tie it back into a low ponytail"
**
58. @slimthizzle11
"Imagine being part of the community, where u get to dress
and act the way u want, refer to yourself as anything you can dream, then you getting denied because of a hair
style. As long as it's clean and neat, who tf cares. That old ass narrative.
They need to scrap it. Since the world
is so big on individuality..or is that only for a specific group of ppl 😒...
This shi-t* weird."
-snip-
*This word is fully spelled out in this comment.
**
Reply
59. @KingBril
"I feel you dawg but remember, you watched this video knowing
you were going to get someones opinion."
**
Reply
60. @slimthizzle11
"@KingBril I'm not
speaking to you directly. More so to "H.R" 😅🤦🏿♂️....
they can go to hell with that narrative today and age."
-snip-
"H. R." = "Human Resources" office in organizations/corporations
**
Reply
61. @KingBril
" @slimthizzle11 ahh i got you. It’s the mindset of
“professional” and not the actual advice that’s not aligning right?"
**
Reply
62. @slimthizzle11
"@KingBril
yes, I do believe looking professional is key, but let's not act like
that "professional" look wasn't set in place to legally discriminate
against black and brown ppl. So that's why I don't really feel that idea. As
long as the person is hygienic and hairstyle neat, I don't think it should
matter, with the exception of certain professions. That's all I'm saying."
**
63. @tmavibes
"Don’t dye your hair, god didn’t make your hair hot Cheeto
red, green blue blonde, or orange. Only way you have blonde is if your
Caucasian or have leprosy, lebrosy in the Bible is pale skin or yellow hair,
Leviticus 13th chapter."
**
Reply
64. @rg50InFaMouc
"I grow blonde hair and I’m black. Soo not really"
**
Reply
65. @tmavibes
"@rg50InFaMouc yes really. Be not ignorant"
**
Reply
66. @rg50InFaMouc
"@tmavibes how am I being ignorant. I didn’t ask to be
born with blonde hair and melanin in my skin. I want to be white because I
naturally grow blonde hair? Like I said no not really. Living testament. Be not
delusional"
**
67. @damarkomoore5236
"Not a fan of this bril ngl…"
-snip-
"ngl"= "not gonna lie"
**
Reply
68. @KingBril
"The only option was to lie to yall and say
" no one will judge you based on your hairstyle" "
****
2025
69. @sw-hn4ok
"He's telling the truth. Grow up and get your hair cut or Style Like a
Man!"
**
Reply
70. @sw-hn4ok
"ONLY BLACK MEN walk around with their
hair in pigtails, the same style as a little girl 😂😅🤣😁"
This concludes Part III of this pancocojams series.
Thanks for visiting pancocojams.
Visitor comments are welcome.
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