YUNG POODA: Open Book

Let’s hop right into this latest single, “TROPHIES” — Tell me about this particular track; how did it actually come to fruition?

Man, one of my producers in Australia sent me over the beat and immediately it inspired me. Once you hear those horns, it naturally brings you to a champion-like state of mind. It was important for me to record a track like this because I feel like this is a great time to speak about the success I’m experiencing. I still have some ways to go, but it’s a def winning streak time for me.

As an emcee, when you sit down to pen your rhymes where do you draw your inspiration from?

From life and everything all around me. Nothing is off-limits, and it’s always best to draw inspiration from somewhere you feel connected.

“TROPHIES” is an It’s A 10 Records release — What are your future plans and / or goals for the imprint? And, besides yourself of course, who all else makes up the label’s artist roster?

I’m actually the only artist as of now on my label. It’s a blessing to receive my entire label support. We’re indie, but it’s definitely feeling like the big leagues over here.

Reflecting, tell me your whole inception into music — When did you become interested in it? And, how did it all begin for YUNG POODA?

Man, I was born into it. At the age of three, my favorite song was “Hip Hop Hooray” by Naughty By Nature. At nine, I wrote my first rap and at eleven I made my first song in the studio. There’s been nothing else as far as I can remember.

Now you’re a native of Orange, TX, correct? So growing up in ‘The Lone Star State,’ who all did / do you consider to be your strongest musical influences?

Growing up in Texas, I’d have to say OutKast, Lil Wayne and Michael Jackson were my big three as far as influences.

In having said that, how do you classify your overall sound and / or style?

Unique, eclectic.

Where does your moniker, Yung Pooda, originally derive from?

A childhood nickname! [laughs]

Switching gears here…

To date, what has been your greatest career moment(s), at least thus far anyway?

Honestly, I haven’t experienced my most significant career moment, but every day we’re getting closer to that.

What’s an average day like for you?

Chilling. Being lowkey. I’m usually having family time spending time with my daughter, or writing some new material.

Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…

My fans mean everything to me and I treat them as I would a friend. I’m an open book to my fans, and I try to be there for them as much as they show up for me.

What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?

Every aspect. From making the music to putting it out is always a favorite experience. I can’t say I have a least favorite because every element matters.

What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?

Have faith but put in the right amount of work to support it all.

Lastly, what’s next for Yung Pooda?

More music and content for sure. Coming in hot all summer long!

Is there anything I left out, or just plain forgot to mention?

Nah, we pretty much covered it all. Appreciate y’all for having me.

Any “closing” thought(s) for our readers?

Follow me on all social media platforms, @IamYungPooda, and check out my two tracks that’s going up “Trophies” and “Drop.”