New York, NY – Puerto Rican-born artist and truth-teller Chris Oledude has released his latest single, “White Lie: Carolyn’s Story,” a bold and intense exploration of the Emmett Till tragedy, timed to coincide with Black History Month in the United States. The track delves into a speculative perspective of Carolyn Bryant, the white woman whose false accusation led to the brutal murder of 14-year-old Emmett Till in Mississippi on August 28, 1955. Through raw lyrics and a compelling beat, the song confronts enduring racist attitudes that persist in American culture, echoing from the Civil Rights era to contemporary movements like MAGA.
“White Lie: Carolyn’s Story” highlights the ongoing battle for equality and free speech, underscoring how acknowledgment of America’s racist history is under threat. Originally inspired by a friend’s poem, the song came to Oledude in “violent waves,” with lyrics and melody crafted by Christopher R. Owens (ASCAP) a/k/a Chris Oledude, alongside contributions from singer-songwriter Lindsey Wilson. The arrangement was also prepared by Oledude. Lead vocals feature longtime collaborator Dr. Wendy A. Ward with Lindsey Wilson, backed by Elijah Dixon Owens and Oledude. Ad lib parts were added by Wilson and Oledude, while electric guitar was performed by Oledude’s brother, actor Geoffrey Owens (known for his role as Elvin on The Cosby Show).
Vocals and guitar were recorded at Steve Addabbo’s Shelter Island Studio in Manhattan, engineered by Ray Aldaco. The mix was completed by Mark Dann at his Woodstock studio. An accompanying devastating video, originally released in 2022 and created/edited by Oledude using NCH Videopad software, amplifies the song’s message. Oledude envisions a future orchestral accompaniment to the video to further elevate its impact.
In Oledude’s words: “February is Black History Month in the United States. Acknowledgement of America’s problems with equality is now a cultural weakness—and a political battle is underway to protect free speech AND the truths about the racism and violence that formed this nation. ‘White Lie: Carolyn’s Story’ is a wild attempt to present a perspective possibly held by the white woman who lied about a teenage Black boy, Emmett Till, and got him killed in 1955. The intensity of this piece is real—and the listener will like the beat, but also need to listen a few times to take in the lyrics. I am proud of this work. There is a devastating video that was made for this and one day, I hope to have an orchestra accompanying that video! Help us spread the word that truth is truth—and truth cannot die.”
The single pays tribute to Emmett Till’s mother, Mamie Till, whose courage turned her son’s murder into a catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement, preceding the Montgomery Bus Boycott by months. It serves as a reminder that the “tree of liberty” is often watered with the blood of innocents, urging listeners to confront historical and ongoing injustices.
Available now on all major streaming platforms, “White Lie: Carolyn’s Story” blends Oledude’s signature old-school pop, funk, and R&B influences with urgent social commentary, making it essential listening for these times.
