Isaiah Rashad’s 32 gold teeth are beaming. As he sits down for lunch in New York City, the Top Dawg Entertainment rapper exudes a sense of genuine contentment. “I’m grateful as fuck,” he says, pausing to capture a photo of his meal with a playful nod to his mother’s habits. At nearly 35 years old, Rashad is in a reflective space, balancing the release of his third studio album, IT’S BEEN AWFUL, with a newfound appreciation for the path that brought him here.
Reflecting on the Journey
Originally hailing from Tennessee, Rashad admits he once envisioned a life behind the scenes. “I got a gang of friends who make music too, I kind of assumed that I would end up doing what he does,” he says, gesturing to his manager. His gratitude extends to his creator, his family, and the community that supported his rise. This humility has defined his career, allowing him to maintain a deep, protective connection with his fanbase since his early projects like Cilvia Demo and The Sun’s Tirade.
Everybody knows I’m grateful. To the universe, to my creator, to the people that helped me get this shit off the ground.
On IT’S BEEN AWFUL, Rashad tackles the heavy realities of substance abuse and addiction with unflinching honesty. Yet, he balances this darkness with moments of profound joy, such as his recent experience watching Man of Steel. He describes the film’s protagonist as a “realistic Superman” who chooses the light, a metaphor that resonates with his own life choices.
A Family Affair and Creative Evolution
The new album is deeply personal, featuring production from his brother, Timothy Vance. The siblings, who grew up playing instruments together in Tennessee, have come full circle. Rashad’s creative reach extends beyond music; he is currently curating an art exhibit for his brother and remains focused on supporting his daughter. “This is for my kid. Deadass,” he notes.
When asked to categorize his life, Rashad surprises with the genre “Indie Horror,” though he acknowledges the coming-of-age elements reminiscent of films like Juno. He cites the whimsical, alt-pop sensibilities of that era as an inspiration for tracks like “BOY IN RED,” which features a contribution from SZA. Despite the weight of his lyrics, the record remains infused with emotional warmth and empathy.
Looking Ahead
As he approaches his birthday, Rashad remains uninterested in grand celebrations, preferring to focus on his personal growth and “made-up religion” of self-check-ins. His gold teeth serve as a permanent reminder of his heritage and the distance he has traveled. Ultimately, Isaiah Rashad is a man who has learned to navigate the darkness while keeping his eyes firmly fixed on the light.
All that little ’07, ’08, super alt, white girl music. I like that kind of shit.
