Today Houston rapper and lyricist Yung Pooda delivers his heavy-hitting, stand-alone single for "Lies Told." The lyrically-charged, Cool & Dre produced track addresses today's most pressing issues in America and incites a powerful reminder to amplify Black voices and keep Black power, strength, and beauty at the forefront.

Referencing "Lies Told," Pooda says "I was inspired to speak truth immediately after I listened to the baseline and the sample. I needed to touch what's going on in the world—and what has gone on for far too long, in my own way. After the death of Trayvon Martin, that really put a lot in perspective for me as a Black man in America to use my voice and champion Black empowerment. The fight is far from over and I am here to be a voice for my people." 

Check out the single and interview below.

With the pandemic going on, how has your day-to-day changed when it comes to searching for creativity and recording music?

I can say it caused me to tap deeper into my creativity. Being quarantined caused me to get back into reading and other things. Plus, I have more time to meditate, pray, and make plans. It's all perception—I try to focus on finding the positivity in adverse situations.

Who were some of your inspirations then and now?

I've always been inspired by legends like Lil Wayne of course, OutKast, Bob Marley, Michael Jackson, Beethoven, and Gucci Mane.

For anyone that doesn't know you, how would someone describe Pooda?

I would describe myself as a spiritual visionary who creates art through emotions. I also would say that I'm a God-fearing king who's fascinated with the nature of life. I'm unique, different, special, one of a kind, a diamond in the rough in physical form. I put on for my people, most of all.

What can fans expect on your forthcoming project, Vivid Pictures?

They can expect a true body of art and somewhat of a life guide. Expect messages and melodies that open the mind and broadens a one-way of thinking. 

How did connecting with Cool & Dre come about?

Cool & Dre have always been close friends with my label. They are like family. So when I signed to It's A 10 Records they were, in a sense, already waiting on me. Once they sent me the first pack of beats I knew it was destined

What's the plan after you release your debut?

To accomplish the impossible or at least what "people" think is impossible.

If fans can take away one lesson for music, what would that be?

I told the truth. My truth.