3 Reasons Why Isaiah Rashad Is A Musical Genius
Last time the world and the BET Hip Hop Awards heard from Isaiah Rashad was in 2016, when he released his critically acclaimed debut studio album, The Sun’s Tirade.
He was one of the many performers to grace the stage, showcasing “Tity and Dolla” for the Atlanta crowd in what was an electric performance.
Well, the TDE labelmate is back.
The 30-year-old Chattanooga, Tennessee native released his much anticipated sophomore album, The House Is Burning, this past July 30, featuring Lil Uzi Vert, SZA and others, ending his five year hiatus.
And the project was well received. THIB debuted at No. 7 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking his first ever Top 10 project (The Sun’s Tirade peaked at No. 17 in 2016) and further solidifying his already impeccable discography.
Here’s a look into his musical greatness and what makes him so valuable.
Went Toe To Toe With Kendrick
It goes without saying that Kendrick Lamar is one, if not, the greatest to ever pick up a mic. He makes superstar rappers sound like mere mortals and has already cemented himself on the Mount Rushmore of hip hop.
And Isaiah Rashad matched him bar for bar.
The collaboration took place on a track called “What’s Wrong” on Isaiah’s The Sun’s Tirade. Not known for his lyrical chops, the feat shows how there is no limit to what the Tennessee native can do in the booth.
Rashad’s sound is unlike most mainstream rappers today who incorporate heavy 808’s, trap-inspired production in their music.
Much like the introspection of his songwriting, Rashad’s ear is eclectic as well, electing to go with heavy synths, jazzy notes, horns, and other instrumentation that has a more soul feel than anything.
The House Is Burning featured Kenny Beats, Devin Malik, Kal Banx, among others on the production side of things, who all helped deliver a cohesive project that takes you on a joyride of emotions.
Just check out the soothing chords and drum pattern of his single, “Wat U Sed”.
Songwriting Ability
Isaiah Rashad’s talent really shines in his songwriting. He is not beholden to a particular structure and lets the vibrations dictate his flow.
He has verses that aren’t really rapping or singing, per say, but rather this easy-going talking — venting almost — in a addicting cadence and tone that eases you into the fabric of his words.
This verse is a perfect example:
“I’ve been asking questions, where’s the love? And they don’t give me answers, just a check.
And they don’t know my history as a child, because I was busy cutting myself.”
Gripping lyrics that are completely uninhibited by the expectations of industry trends.
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His sophomore project elicited the same brilliance. In “Headshots”, the third track on the album, he raps:
“Weed couldn't settle my fire, couldn’t cover my pain, pain, pain” he croons.
