How the St. Louis Rapper Created the Legendary “Pop, Lock & Drop It” Dance Anthem Before His Tragic Death: Huey

#NOLAZINE - During the mid-2000s, when Southern and Midwest hip-hop were dominating clubs and radio stations, one St. Louis rapper introduced a record that would become an unforgettable part of hip-hop history. Huey, best known for his smash hit “Pop, Lock & Drop It,” created a dance anthem that had people across the country moving.

Born Lawrence Franks Jr. on January 1, 1989, Huey grew up in St. Louis, Missouri, where he developed a passion for music at an early age. His breakthrough came in 2006 with the release of “Pop, Lock & Drop It,” a record that quickly gained popularity through local radio, clubs, and dance culture.

By 2007, the song had become a nationwide sensation, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and introducing Huey to millions of listeners. The record's catchy hook, infectious beat, and signature dance made it one of the most recognizable hip-hop songs of its era.

The success of the single helped propel his debut album, “Notebook Paper,” released in 2007 through Hitz Committee and Jive Records. Although Huey continued recording music, he struggled to duplicate the massive mainstream success of his breakout hit.

However, his contribution to hip-hop culture was undeniable. Long before TikTok dance challenges became popular, “Pop, Lock & Drop It” had teenagers and adults learning choreography, recording dance videos, and competing on dance floors across America.

Sadly, on June 25, 2020, Huey was fatally shot outside a home in Kinloch, Missouri, at just 31 years old. His death shocked fans who remembered him as one of the artists responsible for creating a defining soundtrack of the 2000s.

Although his life was tragically cut short, Huey's music continues to live on. Nearly two decades after its release, “Pop, Lock & Drop It” remains a nostalgic favorite at parties, celebrations, and throwback events.

Huey's story is another reminder that an artist doesn't need dozens of hit records to leave a lasting impact on music history. Sometimes one unforgettable song is enough to influence an entire generation.

Nolazine wants to know: Do y'all remember when “Pop, Lock & Drop It” first came out in 2006–2007? And do y'all think Huey gets enough recognition for creating one of the biggest dance anthems of the 2000s? 🕊️🎶