Photos by Erick Perez
Isaiah Rashad arrived in Charlotte, NC for his “Lil Sunny’s Awful Road Trip Tour“. The Tennessee native sold out The Fillmore with fans excited to hear the performance. The tour highlights Isaiah’s most recent album release, “IT’S BEEN AWFUL.” Alongside him supporting is Alemeda, a creative young pop-rock singer that is signed similar to Rashad to Top Dawg Entertainment and Warner Records. The rapper also known dearly as Zay, played a mix of his best hits throughout the years from multiple successful critically acclaimed album projects.
To kick off the set, Isaiah performed “THE NEW SUBLIME,” the intro track to his newest album, “IT’S BEEN AWFUL.” Producing a lo-fi like melancholic sound and lyrics that cut deep. In a twisted way it’s a mellow soothing track that dives into Rashad’s personal traumas and spiritual reflection. He would continue with two more songs from the latest album performing “M.O.M” and “SCARED 2 LOOK DOWN” before rewinding time for a moment.
One of Rashad’s most iconic projects is the 2016 album, “The Sun’s Tirade.” The rapper lit up the venue with cheers as he played “Free Lunch.” A groovy, jazzy sound with light guitar riffs that mixes perfectly with a confident lyrical delivery. Afterwards came “Park” a track off the same album. The energy exploded through the roof with this one. The high-energy, fan favorite song provides an aggressive sharp lyrical delivery that gave the fans a boost of adrenaline. Everyone in attendance began head-nodding, bouncing in excitement, and singing lyric for lyric along with Rashad.
The list could go on and on with popular hits that he played but it wouldn’t be an Isaiah Rashad show without the infamous, “Heavenly Father.” A track that widely launched Rashad’s career becoming one of his most notorious anthems featuring SZA off his 2014 debut album, “Cilvia Demo.” An iconic song that resonates with a lot of fans as Rashad shares the raw unfiltered vulnerability of his life through the lyrics. It explores themes such as drug culture, depression, and the experience of an absent father all while maintaining faith. Honestly, it’s a beautiful touching song that paved the deep connection that fans feel with Rashad.
Outside of the amazing performance, the main thing that stood out is the unique bond Isaiah Rashad has with the fans. The Chattanooga artist was the man of the hour yet genuinely shared the moment with everyone in attendance. From openly having a conversation with fans before doors officially opened, walking down the pit mid performance to vibe with the front row, and even bringing a pair of fans to share the stage for a song. Additionally, Rashad gave his own time post show to take pictures and sing vinyls to every fan that awaited outside. It’s a genuine ride or die fanbase that he’s built throughout the years not only through his music creativity but his unique storytelling lyricism that fans can relate to.
For more Isaiah Rashad and tour info click HERE.