French Montana and Max B Are Back: Why “Smoking pt. 2” Hits Different
The “Coke Wave” isn’t just a nostalgic memory—it’s alive and well in 2026. French Montana, who holds the title of one of the most successful African-born artists in hip-hop history, just dropped his latest single, “Smoking pt. 2” and it feels like a genuine homecoming.
Reuniting with his right-hand man, the legendary Max B, and bringing in heavy hitter Rick Ross, French has crafted a track that feels less like a calculated industry move and more like a victory lap for the crew.
More Than Just a Track
If you caught the recent VERZUZ battle between French and Ross, you already know the energy between them is unmatched. Instead of letting that momentum die down after the stream ended, they headed straight to the studio to capture that same lightning in a bottle.
The real magic here, though, is the return of Max B. The “Silver Surfer” has been the backbone of French’s sound since the beginning, and hearing them trade bars again takes you right back to the grit of the mid-2000s New York scene. It’s rare to see artists revisit their roots without it feeling forced, but this is the real deal.
The Vibe
“Smoking pt. 2” is one of those records that’s perfect for a late-night drive or a smoke session. It isn’t trying to be the most complex song on the charts; it’s just smooth, confident, and unapologetic.
French nails the hook, Max brings that signature flow that fans have been waiting years for, and Rick Ross adds that heavy, luxury-rap weight that he’s mastered over the last decade. It’s an anthem about staying true to your day-ones and enjoying the fruits of a long career.
What’s Next?
This single is a major piece of the puzzle for French’s upcoming project, Wave Gods 2: Cosmo Brothers. After a strong run of singles earlier this year, it’s clear French is moving with a specific vision for his independent label, Coke Boys Records. He’s managed to stay relevant by not chasing trends, but by doubling down on the sound he helped create.
“Smoking pt. 2” is officially out on all streaming platforms. If you’ve been rocking with the Coke Boys since the Coke Wave mixtapes, this one is going to be on heavy rotation for a while.













