Isaiah Rashad has unveiled the complete tracklist and official artwork for his highly anticipated forthcoming album, It’s Been Awful. Set for release next month, the project marks a significant return for the Chattanooga rapper, serving as the official follow-up to his critically acclaimed 2021 LP, The House is Burning. The new album is a substantial offering, featuring a total of 16 tracks, including the recently released single “Same Sh!t.” The project also boasts a carefully curated selection of guest features, highlighting a blend of established stars and rising talents.
A Star-Studded Collaboration List
It’s Been Awful is set to feature a concise yet impactful lineup of collaborators. Among the notable names gracing the album are Grammy-winning singer-songwriter SZA and multifaceted artist Dominic Fike, both of whom have previously collaborated with Rashad. The album also introduces emerging artist Julian Sintonia, signaling Rashad’s continued commitment to supporting new voices in the music landscape.
The inclusion of SZA on the track "Boy in Red" is particularly noteworthy, extending a fruitful creative partnership between the two artists. This collaboration marks their sixth joint effort, building upon a history of successful tracks such as "West Savannah," "Ronnie Drake," "Stuck in the Mud," "Pretty Little Birds," and "Score." Their previous collaborations have been celebrated for their complementary styles and thematic depth, suggesting that "Boy in Red" will likely continue this trend.
Dominic Fike’s appearance on the track "Cameras" further solidifies the album’s appeal, bringing together two artists known for their genre-bending approaches to music. Fike, who has also seen considerable success in recent years, adds another layer of diverse artistry to the project.
Album Details and Release Information
It’s Been Awful is scheduled for a May 1 release, distributed via TDE/Warner Records. The announcement was accompanied by the reveal of the album’s striking artwork, which hints at the introspective and potentially emotionally charged themes that may be explored within the project. The full tracklist provides a comprehensive look at the album’s scope:
Isaiah Rashad – It’s Been Awful (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 release of It’s Been Awful comes after a period of anticipation from Rashad’s fanbase, who have been eager for new material since the success of The House is Burning. That album, released in July 2021, was hailed for its raw lyricism, distinctive production, and Rashad’s signature laid-back yet profound delivery, solidifying his position as a unique voice in contemporary hip-hop.
Artistic Influences and Sonic Direction
In a previous interview with VICE last year, Isaiah Rashad offered insights into the creative forces shaping It’s Been Awful. He cited a diverse range of musical inspirations, including the iconic Southern hip-hop duo OutKast, the legendary Prince, and the contemporary R&B artist Fousheé.
Rashad specifically highlighted Fousheé as a significant muse, stating, "The biggest inspiration for me was Fousheé." He also spoke about his deep appreciation for Prince’s catalog, mentioning that he had "If I Was Your Girlfriend" on repeat for an extended period. He further elaborated on the influence of Atlanta-based artists, noting the impact of "this girl PLUTO from Atlanta" and another artist named BunnaB on the latter portion of the project.
The rapper’s artistic references to OutKast’s seminal albums, Stankonia and The Love Below, suggest a desire to explore more expansive and experimental sonic territories. "I’m touching more [OutKast’s] Stankonia and The Love Below more than anything else," Rashad stated. He also expressed gratitude for the creative freedom granted for this project, noting, "Top [Dawg] made compromises for the creativity on this one, so I appreciate it." This suggests a potentially more liberated and artistically driven direction compared to previous works.
Describing the album’s sound, Rashad painted a vivid picture of a "sultry southern mix mixed with a deep sense of intimacy." He elaborated on the sonic palette, mentioning influences ranging from "twangy rock and psychedelia to tender intimacy to the kind of trunk-rattling you’d only hear down south." This description indicates a rich and varied musical landscape, promising an auditory experience that is both deeply rooted in Southern musical traditions and open to broader stylistic explorations.
Context and Anticipation Surrounding the Release
The announcement of It’s Been Awful arrives at a pivotal moment for Isaiah Rashad. Following the critical and commercial success of The House is Burning, which debuted at number 17 on the Billboard 200 chart and garnered widespread critical acclaim, expectations for his next project are exceptionally high. The album was lauded for its vulnerability, with Rashad addressing themes of addiction, personal growth, and his relationship with fame. Its success not only solidified his fanbase but also attracted new listeners drawn to his authentic storytelling and distinctive musical style.
The interim period since The House is Burning has seen Rashad engage with his audience through live performances and occasional singles, maintaining a presence while hinting at new creative endeavors. The release of "Same Sh!t" served as an early indicator of the album’s direction, offering a glimpse into the lyrical and sonic themes that fans can expect.
The collaboration with SZA, in particular, carries significant weight. Their previous joint tracks have often been highlights of their respective albums, demonstrating a remarkable chemistry that resonates deeply with fans. SZA’s own recent success with her Grammy-winning album SOS further amplifies the anticipation for any new collaboration.
Dominic Fike’s involvement adds another layer of intrigue. Fike, known for his genre-defying music that blends rock, pop, and hip-hop elements, has carved out a unique niche in the music industry. His inclusion alongside Rashad suggests a potential fusion of styles that could lead to unexpected and compelling musical moments.
The Significance of TDE and Warner Records Partnership
The release of It’s Been Awful under the TDE (Top Dawg Entertainment) banner, in partnership with Warner Records, is also a significant factor. TDE has a proven track record of nurturing and promoting artists with distinct voices and artistic visions, including Kendrick Lamar, SZA, and ScHoolboy Q. This partnership suggests that Rashad has been afforded substantial creative control, aligning with his own statements about the label making "compromises for the creativity on this one." The backing of a major label like Warner Records also indicates a broader reach and marketing push, potentially exposing Rashad’s music to an even wider audience.
Broader Implications and Fan Engagement
The unveiling of the tracklist and artwork for It’s Been Awful has generated considerable excitement across social media platforms and hip-hop forums. Fans have been dissecting the song titles, speculating about potential themes and collaborations, and sharing their anticipation for Rashad’s return. The artist’s ability to foster such a dedicated and engaged fanbase speaks to the authenticity and emotional resonance of his music.
The album’s release is not just a personal milestone for Isaiah Rashad but also a significant event for the contemporary R&B and hip-hop landscape. His unique blend of introspective lyricism, soulful melodies, and Southern-infused production has cemented his place as an artist who consistently delivers thoughtful and impactful music. It’s Been Awful promises to be another chapter in his artistic journey, offering a deep dive into his experiences and creative evolution. The anticipation surrounding this release underscores Rashad’s standing as one of the most compelling voices in modern music.
