Reynand Wu
Isaiah Rashad, the critically acclaimed Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE) artist, has officially unveiled the comprehensive tracklist and accompanying artwork for his highly anticipated new album, It’s Been Awful. Scheduled for release next month on May 1 via TDE/Warner Records, the project marks a significant return for the Chattanooga, Tennessee native, serving as the long-awaited successor to his critically lauded 2021 album, The House Is Burning. The upcoming record is set to feature 16 tracks, including the recently released lead single, "Same Sh!t," and boasts a curated selection of guest appearances from prominent artists such as SZA and Dominic Fike, alongside emerging talent Julian Sintonia.
A Return Marked by Anticipation and Artistic Evolution
The announcement of It’s Been Awful has ignited considerable excitement within the hip-hop community, especially given Rashad’s history of meticulously crafted projects and significant gaps between releases. His discography, though not extensive in quantity, is celebrated for its profound introspection, distinctive Southern sonic textures, and raw lyrical honesty. Fans and critics alike have eagerly awaited new material, viewing each release as a thoughtful chapter in his ongoing artistic narrative. The three-year interval since The House Is Burning has only amplified this anticipation, positioning It’s Been Awful as a pivotal moment in his career.
Rashad’s journey within TDE has been marked by a unique blend of critical acclaim and periods of relative quiet. He first garnered widespread attention with his 2014 debut EP, Cilvia Demo, which showcased his intricate storytelling and laid-back yet potent delivery. This was followed by his debut studio album, The Sun’s Tirade, in 2016, a project that further solidified his reputation for crafting atmospheric, deeply personal narratives exploring themes of addiction, mental health, and self-discovery. A five-year hiatus followed before The House Is Burning arrived in 2021, a period during which Rashad openly addressed personal struggles, including substance abuse and mental health challenges. These candid disclosures have fostered a deep connection with his fanbase, who often find solace and resonance in his vulnerability. The title It’s Been Awful itself subtly hints at a continuation of this introspective journey, suggesting a period of difficulty that may have profoundly influenced the album’s thematic core.
Deep Dive into the Tracklist and Collaborations
The 16-song tracklist for It’s Been Awful reveals a thoughtful construction, balancing solo explorations with carefully selected collaborations. The inclusion of the lead single "Same Sh!t" at number three suggests its foundational role in setting the album’s tone, offering listeners an early glimpse into Rashad’s current artistic direction.
The SZA Connection: A Prolific Partnership Continues
One of the most anticipated features is SZA’s appearance on "Boy in Red." This collaboration marks the sixth time Rashad and SZA have joined forces, underscoring a deep artistic synergy that has consistently yielded compelling results. Their previous joint efforts include tracks like "West Savannah" and "Ronnie Drake" from Cilvia Demo, "Stuck in the Mud" from The Sun’s Tirade, and "Pretty Little Birds" and "Score" from The House Is Burning. Each collaboration has highlighted their complementary styles—Rashad’s contemplative flow often finding a perfect counterpoint in SZA’s soulful, emotive vocals. Given SZA’s meteoric rise to global superstardom with albums like Ctrl and SOS, her presence on It’s Been Awful not only elevates the album’s profile but also promises a continuation of their cherished musical dialogue. "Boy in Red" is poised to be another testament to their enduring chemistry, potentially delving into themes of love, vulnerability, or introspection that are characteristic of both artists’ work.
New and Unexpected Voices: Dominic Fike and Julian Sintonia
Beyond SZA, the album introduces listeners to two other distinct voices. Dominic Fike, an alt-pop sensation known for his genre-bending sound and infectious melodies, features on "Cameras." Fike’s unique blend of indie rock, hip-hop, and pop sensibilities could introduce an intriguing dynamic to Rashad’s typically more grounded Southern sound. His involvement aligns with Rashad’s previously hinted-at exploration of "twangy rock and psychedelia," suggesting a broader sonic experimentation on the album. This collaboration indicates Rashad’s willingness to push beyond traditional hip-hop boundaries, embracing a more eclectic musical landscape.
Julian Sintonia, an emerging artist described as an "up-and-comer," contributes to "Do I Look High?". The inclusion of newer talent like Sintonia often signifies an artist’s desire to incorporate fresh perspectives and sounds into their work, potentially offering a raw or experimental edge that complements Rashad’s established style. These carefully chosen features suggest that while It’s Been Awful will undoubtedly bear Rashad’s signature sound, it will also venture into new collaborative territories, enriching its sonic tapestry.
The Full Tracklist:
- The New Sublime
- M.O.M
- Same Sh!t
- Boy in Red (feat. SZA)
- Supaficial
- Scared 2 Look Down
- Happy Hour
- Do I Look High? (feat. Julian Sintonia)
- Ain’t Givin’ Up
- GTKY
- Cameras (feat. Dominic Fike)
- Act Normal
- 10 States Away
- Nuthin 2 Hide
- Superpwrs
- 719 Freestyle
The Creative Genesis: Inspirations and Sonic Landscape
In a revealing interview with VICE last year, Isaiah Rashad provided invaluable insights into the creative wellspring for It’s Been Awful, citing an eclectic array of influences that underscore the album’s expected diversity. He specifically highlighted Fousheé, Prince, and OutKast as pivotal inspirations, alongside newer artists like PLUTO and BunnaB from Atlanta.
Rashad’s admiration for Fousheé, a contemporary artist known for her genre-fluid approach blending R&B, rock, and alternative sounds, suggests a leaning towards modern experimentation and raw emotionality. His deep dive into Prince’s discography, particularly having "If I Was Your Girlfriend" on repeat for months, speaks volumes about his pursuit of tender intimacy, sophisticated songwriting, and boundary-pushing musicality. Prince’s ability to seamlessly fuse funk, soul, rock, and pop while exploring complex themes of love, desire, and identity aligns perfectly with the "sultry southern mix" and "deep sense of intimacy" Rashad aims for.
Crucially, Rashad also referenced the profound impact of OutKast, stating, "I’m touching more [OutKast’s] Stankonia and The Love Below more than anything else." This statement is particularly significant for a Southern hip-hop artist. Stankonia (2000) is revered for its audacious genre-bending, experimental production, and socially conscious lyricism, pushing the boundaries of what Southern rap could be. The Love Below (2003), André 3000’s half of the Speakerboxxx/The Love Below double album, is a masterpiece of artistic freedom, shedding traditional hip-hop structures for a whimsical, soulful, and deeply personal exploration of love and music. Drawing inspiration from these two iconic OutKast albums suggests that It’s Been Awful will be a project rich in sonic innovation, bold thematic choices, and an uninhibited artistic spirit, moving beyond conventional genre classifications.
Rashad further elaborated on the album’s sound, describing it as "a sultry southern mix mixed with a deep sense of intimacy. Everything from twangy rock and psychedelia to tender intimacy to the kind of trunk-rattling you’d only hear down south." This vivid description paints a picture of an album that is simultaneously rooted in his Southern heritage yet unafraid to explore expansive sonic territories. The "twangy rock and psychedelia" elements could manifest through distorted guitars, hazy synthesizers, and experimental song structures, echoing influences from artists like Prince and the more adventurous sides of OutKast. The "trunk-rattling" aspect assures listeners that despite the experimental flourishes, the album will retain the hard-hitting, bass-heavy grooves characteristic of Southern hip-hop, designed for immersive listening.
The Role of Top Dawg Entertainment
An interesting note from Rashad’s VICE interview was his acknowledgment that "Top [Dawg] made compromises for the creativity on this one, so I appreciate it." This statement offers a rare glimpse into the collaborative dynamic between an artist and their label, especially one as prominent as TDE. It suggests that Rashad was afforded significant artistic freedom and support to pursue his unique vision, even if it meant venturing into less commercially conventional sounds. For an artist known for his distinct and often introspective style, having a label that champions creative integrity over strict market demands is invaluable. This autonomy likely allowed Rashad to fully explore the diverse inspirations and sonic landscapes he described, resulting in an album that is genuinely reflective of his artistic ambitions.
TDE, founded by Anthony "Top Dawg" Tiffith, has a reputation for nurturing unique talents and fostering artistic independence, contributing to the success of artists like Kendrick Lamar, SZA, ScHoolboy Q, and Jay Rock. While the label has undergone significant changes in recent years, including the departure of Kendrick Lamar, its commitment to artist development and quality output remains a cornerstone. It’s Been Awful will undoubtedly contribute to TDE’s evolving legacy, showcasing their continued ability to support artists who defy easy categorization.
Anticipation and Broader Implications
The release of It’s Been Awful on May 1 is more than just another album drop; it represents a significant cultural moment for Isaiah Rashad and his dedicated fanbase. Given his track record of crafting projects that resonate deeply with listeners, often exploring themes of struggle, resilience, and personal growth, this album is expected to continue that tradition. The title itself, "It’s Been Awful," suggests a direct confrontation with past difficulties, offering a raw and honest reflection that many listeners find therapeutic and relatable.
In an era where music consumption is often driven by rapid releases and fleeting trends, Rashad’s deliberate pace and commitment to artistic depth stand out. His albums are not merely collections of songs but cohesive, immersive experiences designed for repeated listening and deep engagement. It’s Been Awful is poised to solidify Rashad’s position as a singular voice in contemporary music, an artist who transcends genre labels to deliver authentic, impactful narratives.
Furthermore, the album’s eclectic influences and genre-blending approach could serve as a testament to the continued evolution of Southern hip-hop, demonstrating its capacity for innovation and its interconnectedness with broader musical movements. By incorporating elements of rock, psychedelia, and alternative pop alongside his signature "trunk-rattling" Southern sound, Rashad contributes to the ongoing dialogue about what hip-hop can be, challenging preconceived notions and expanding its artistic horizons.
As May 1 approaches, the music world eagerly awaits to immerse itself in the intricate tapestry of It’s Been Awful. With its star-studded features, deeply personal inspirations, and promised sonic diversity, the album is set to be a compelling addition to Isaiah Rashad’s acclaimed discography, offering listeners another profound journey through the mind of one of hip-hop’s most introspective and innovative artists.
