Nothing holds more weight than a promise, according to Yung Pooda. Byron Lynn Nettles, Jr, also known as Yung Pooda, is a Texas native rapper with big and bold dreams to take over music.
Pooda chose to turn his life around and dedicate it to music with the battle between life and art. The rapper took the time to speak with rolling out and let us know what is next for him personally and career-wise.
In general, what led you to music?
The love for it. My passion. I was born in music. From my grandfather being in a Zydeco band to my dad being a DJ and producing locally in my hometown, there has always been music around me. Looking back, [it] makes sense that I became a product of my environment by getting into music.
Let’s talk about your latest single. What was the inspiration behind it?
For “Chicken and Grits,” Cool and Dre sent the track, and it immediately stood out to me. The beat reminded me of some real dirty south stuff. The way those 808’s hit you just brought me straight to home. I wanted to connect that sound with the track’s concept, so I caught myself asking what reminds me of the south the most, and the rest is history. My goal was to create something that would hit in the club and make a feel-good track amid these crazy times. Though the club may not be open for a while, good music shouldn’t stop. It felt like the right moment, the right track, and the right time for me to drop this. Once Dreamdoll came through and added another dimension, it made it only right to pull the trigger on it.
What affirmations do you repeat to yourself that contribute to your success?
I wake up in the morning, and I thank GOD. I tell myself every day that I am blessed; I am healthy; I am wealthy; I am strong. We have to speak these things in existence. Manifestation is key.
How do you live life to the fullest?
By being present.
Name three books, works, performances, or exhibits that changed how you view life and/or yourself.
Off the rip, Think and Grow Rich, I Ching (Chinese Philosophy), and it’s hard to say the last one because there [are] so many, but The Study of Nature – Getting Back to Self.
What is next for you?
You can expect my debut project, Vivid Pictures, out soon and more music before the drop. Expect great music all-around — production, features — I’m coming full force.
