Isaiah Rashad Confronts His Truth on ‘It’s Been Awful’

At the center of Isaiah Rashad’s third album, It’s Been Awful, lies the track “Act Normal.” The song serves as a direct response to a viral 2022 incident involving the leak of private tapes, a moment that forced the Chattanooga-raised artist into an unwanted public spotlight. Rather than retreating, Rashad uses the project to confront his past, his family history, and his own evolving identity.

Now 34, the rapper—whose 2021 effort The House Is Burning reached the Top 10 on the Billboard 200—approaches his latest work with a newfound sense of transparency. In an era where many artists curate their public personas, Rashad leans into the uncomfortable. He addresses his sexuality with a candidness rarely seen in mainstream hip-hop, navigating the nuances of being sexually fluid while maintaining a monogamous relationship.

A Sonic Evolution Rooted in Tradition

Sonically, It’s Been Awful remains faithful to the signature sound that defined Rashad’s earlier work: slushy, atmospheric beats and filtered melodies. He describes them as “slow-ass beats,” a style masterfully crafted by producers like Julian Sintonia, Hollywood Cole, and Mario Luciano. The album is steeped in the influence of Southern hip-hop, with frequent nods to Outkast’s ATLiens and Aquemini eras. Rashad’s ability to blend these warm, nostalgic textures with modern, introspective lyricism creates a soundscape that feels both classic and contemporary.

The album also features a notable collaboration with SZA on “Boy in Red,” a track that channels the spirit of Prince. This, alongside guest appearances from artists like Dominic Fike, highlights Rashad’s quiet but significant influence on a generation of musicians who admire his flow and his commitment to authentic songwriting.

Honesty as an Artistic Resolution

Throughout the 16-track, 54-minute project, Rashad grapples with themes of substance abuse, family trauma, and the isolation that often accompanies fame. On tracks like “Scared 2 Look Down” and “10 States Away,” he explores the toll of his personal struggles, offering a raw look at his path toward sobriety. While he doesn’t provide easy answers, his willingness to be flawed—as he admits on “Supaficial”—is what makes the album resonate.

For listeners who have followed his journey from the shadows of Top Dawg Entertainment to his current status as a singular voice in rap, It’s Been Awful is a testament to his growth. He is no longer just a protégé or a peer; he is an artist pushing the boundaries of the genre, proving that the most powerful stories are often the ones we are most afraid to tell.