Isaiah Rashad has unveiled the complete tracklist and album artwork for his highly anticipated new project, It’s Been Awful, slated for release next month. This forthcoming album marks a significant return for the Chattanooga-born artist, serving as the official follow-up to his critically acclaimed 2021 release, The House is Burning. The project is set to feature a substantial 16 tracks, including the recently released single "Same Sh!t." The album’s guest features are notably curated, boasting appearances from Grammy-winning artist SZA, rising alt-pop star Dominic Fike, and emerging talent Julian Sintonia.
A Deep Dive into the "It’s Been Awful" Tracklist
The curated list of 16 songs on It’s Been Awful promises a diverse sonic landscape, reflecting Rashad’s evolving artistic vision. The inclusion of "Same Sh!t" as a pre-release single offers fans a tangible glimpse into the project’s sound. This track, known for its introspective lyrics and signature Rashad flow, has already generated significant buzz, setting a high bar for the remaining songs.
A key highlight of the tracklist is the reunion of Isaiah Rashad and SZA on "Boy in Red." This collaboration deepens an already fruitful artistic partnership, marking their sixth joint effort. Their previous collaborations, including "West Savannah," "Ronnie Drake," "Stuck in the Mud," "Pretty Little Birds," and "Score," have consistently been lauded for their chemistry and emotional resonance. The anticipation for "Boy in Red" is therefore exceptionally high, with fans eager to see how this dynamic duo pushes their creative boundaries once more.
Dominic Fike, a fellow artist known for his genre-bending music, is slated to appear on the track "Cameras." Fike’s inclusion suggests a potential fusion of styles, possibly incorporating elements of rock, pop, and hip-hop, which could add a fresh dimension to Rashad’s work. The presence of Julian Sintonia on "Do I Look High?" further indicates Rashad’s willingness to collaborate with burgeoning artists, potentially introducing new sounds and perspectives to his audience.
The full tracklist for It’s Been Awful is as follows:
- 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
Release Details and Anticipation
It’s Been Awful is officially scheduled for release on May 1 via Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE) and Warner Records. This release date positions the album for significant impact within the spring music calendar, following a period of considerable anticipation from Rashad’s dedicated fanbase. The album’s title, "It’s Been Awful," itself hints at a thematic exploration of personal struggles, introspection, and resilience, themes that have often been central to Rashad’s lyrical content.
The artwork for the album, which has also been revealed, offers visual cues that complement the project’s title and potential themes. While specific interpretations of the artwork are subjective, it is likely to be designed to evoke a particular mood or narrative that resonates with the album’s sonic and lyrical content.
Artistic Influences and Creative Process
In a revealing interview with VICE last year, Isaiah Rashad offered insights into the creative wellsprings that informed It’s Been Awful. He cited a diverse range of influential artists, including the iconic Southern hip-hop duo OutKast, the legendary Prince, and the soulful vocals of Fousheé.
Rashad specifically highlighted Fousheé as a primary inspiration for the project. "The biggest inspiration for me was Fousheé," he stated. This suggests a potential for soulful and emotionally resonant vocal performances within the album, possibly mirroring Fousheé’s distinctive style.
The influence of Prince is also evident, with Rashad mentioning his repeated listening to Prince’s 1987 hit "If I Was Your Girlfriend" for several months leading up to the album’s conception. This points towards an exploration of themes related to intimacy, relationships, and emotional vulnerability, possibly with a funk-infused or R&B undertone.
Furthermore, Rashad indicated that the album draws heavily from the sonic palettes of OutKast’s seminal albums, Stankonia (2000) and The Love Below (2003). These albums are renowned for their experimentalism, genre fusion, and distinctive Southern flair. Rashad’s intention to channel these influences suggests a project that embraces adventurous production and a broad spectrum of sounds, from the raw energy of Stankonia to the more melodic and theatrical approach of The Love Below.
The artist also expressed gratitude for the creative latitude granted by his label. "I would say Top [Dawg] made compromises for the creativity on this one, so I appreciate it," he remarked, implying a level of artistic freedom that allowed him to fully realize his vision for It’s Been Awful.
Sonic Direction and Thematic Depth
The sound of It’s Been Awful has been described as a "sultry southern mix mixed with a deep sense of intimacy." This description suggests a nuanced blend of regional influences and personal introspection. The project is expected to encompass a wide array of sonic textures, ranging from "twangy rock and psychedelia to tender intimacy and the kind of trunk-rattling you’d only hear down south." This eclectic approach indicates Rashad’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of his sound, incorporating elements that might surprise and delight his listeners.
The "sultry southern mix" likely refers to the deep-rooted musical traditions of the American South, which have profoundly influenced hip-hop. This could manifest in the use of soulful samples, gospel inflections, bluesy melodies, or a general laid-back yet potent rhythm. The "deep sense of intimacy" suggests lyrical content that delves into personal experiences, emotions, and vulnerabilities. This combination points towards an album that is both grounded in cultural heritage and deeply personal, offering a rich and multifaceted listening experience.
The mention of "twangy rock and psychedelia" hints at experimental production choices and a willingness to incorporate elements from genres outside of traditional hip-hop. This could translate into guitar-driven tracks, atmospheric soundscapes, or unconventional song structures. The "tender intimacy" aspect suggests moments of quiet reflection and emotional honesty, perhaps featuring stripped-down arrangements or raw, confessional lyrics. Finally, the reference to "trunk-rattling" implies that the album will also feature bass-heavy, high-energy tracks suitable for car stereos and club environments, a nod to the more energetic side of Southern hip-hop culture.
Context and Significance
The release of It’s Been Awful comes at a significant point in Isaiah Rashad’s career. Following the success and critical acclaim of The House is Burning, which was praised for its raw honesty and intricate production, expectations for his next project are understandably high. The House is Burning marked a triumphant return for Rashad after a five-year hiatus, addressing themes of addiction, recovery, and personal growth. The album solidified his reputation as a thoughtful lyricist and a distinctive voice in contemporary hip-hop.
The anticipation for It’s Been Awful is amplified by the artist’s reputation for delivering projects that are both sonically rich and emotionally resonant. His work often explores complex themes with a disarming sincerity, earning him a dedicated and passionate following. The extended period between albums, coupled with the artist’s consistent artistic evolution, contributes to the heightened interest surrounding this new release.
The involvement of TDE, a label known for nurturing and promoting unique artistic talents, further underscores the significance of It’s Been Awful. TDE has a proven track record of supporting artists like Kendrick Lamar, SZA, and ScHoolboy Q, allowing them creative freedom while achieving mainstream success. Rashad’s continued relationship with the label suggests a strong belief in his artistic trajectory and the potential of this new project.
Broader Implications and Fan Reception
The announcement of It’s Been Awful has been met with widespread enthusiasm from fans and critics alike. Social media platforms have been abuzz with discussions about the tracklist, the featured artists, and the potential sound of the album. The inclusion of SZA and Dominic Fike has particularly fueled excitement, as both artists are highly regarded for their individual contributions to the music landscape.
The album’s title, "It’s Been Awful," has also sparked conversations about the personal journey Rashad has undertaken. His candidness about past struggles has made him a relatable figure for many, and fans are eager to hear how he has processed and expressed these experiences through his music. This thematic depth, combined with his signature lyrical prowess, positions It’s Been Awful to be a significant artistic statement.
The album’s release on May 1 will undoubtedly be a major event in the hip-hop calendar. It provides an opportunity for Isaiah Rashad to further cement his legacy as one of the most compelling and authentic voices in the genre. The blend of established collaborators, emerging talents, and a clearly defined sonic vision suggests that It’s Been Awful is poised to be a landmark release, offering a compelling narrative and a captivating listening experience for fans old and new. The artistic integrity and emotional honesty that have come to define Rashad’s work are expected to be at the forefront of this highly anticipated project.
