Groove, Vibe, Soul: Isaiah Rashad, Travis Scott, and Musiq Soulchild Light Up This Week

This week, we're diving into the eclectic sounds of three groundbreaking artists: Isaiah Rashad, Travis Scott, and Musiq Soulchild. Isaiah Rashad brings a soulful introspection to his tracks, blending Southern hip-hop with reflective lyrics that resonate on a deep level. Travis Scott, the modern-day rockstar, captivates with his genre-defying production and electrifying energy, pushing the boundaries of hip-hop with every release. And then there's Musiq Soulchild, whose smooth, velvety voice and heartfelt lyrics have made him a staple in neo-soul, crafting timeless tracks that speak to love, life, and everything in between. Together, these artists offer a rich tapestry of sound that spans genres and emotions, making this week's feature a must-listen for anyone looking to elevate their musical experience.

Dawn Delights by Isaiah

Isaiah Rashad

Isaiah Rashad, a pivotal artist within the Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE) roster, is known for his deeply introspective and southern-infused style of rap. Emerging from Chattanooga, Tennessee, Rashad quickly made a name for himself with his debut EP Cilvia Demo in 2014, which showcased his ability to blend personal struggles with sharp lyricism and smooth, laid-back production. His subsequent albums, The Sun’s Tirade (2016) and The House is Burning (2021), further solidified his reputation as a thoughtful and reflective artist, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.

In 2024, Isaiah Rashad has been teasing his fourth studio album, a follow-up to The House is Burning. Rashad has also been active on the collaboration front, featuring on SiR’s 2024 single "Karma," where his introspective verses complement the track's lush, introspective vibe​.

Isaiah Rashad’s music resonates with listeners due to its honesty and relatability. His lyrics often explore themes of mental health, addiction, and personal growth, making his music not just a listening experience but a therapeutic one for many fans. His ability to convey complex emotions with both vulnerability and strength has made him one of the most compelling voices in contemporary hip-hop.

For those who appreciate rap that goes beyond surface-level braggadocio and delves into the complexities of the human experience, Isaiah Rashad offers a deeply satisfying listen. His upcoming work is highly anticipated, and as he continues to evolve, Rashad remains a crucial voice in the ongoing narrative of Southern hip-hop.

Most Popular Albums:

• Cilvia Demo

• The Sun’s Tirade

My Favorite Album:

• The House Is Burning

My Favorite Songs:

• Free Lunch

• Claymore (feat. Smino)

Travis’s Afternoon Rodeo

Travis Scott

In honor of Days Before Rodeo being re-released, here’s Travis Scott, one of the most influential figures in modern hip-hop. Emerging from Houston, Texas, Scott quickly rose to fame with his signature blend of psychedelic beats, auto-tuned melodies, and high-energy performances. His early mixtapes, such as Days Before Rodeo and his debut album Rodeo in 2015, laid the foundation for what would become a unique and highly influential sound in the world of rap.

Scott's latest album, Utopia, released in July 2023, represents a continuation of his exploration of complex soundscapes and themes. The album, which features collaborations with industry heavyweights like Drake, Beyoncé, and The Weeknd, delves into themes of fame, isolation, and the pursuit of an unattainable ideal world. Utopia not only topped the charts but also set new benchmarks for what a modern rap album could achieve, blending elements of rock, electronic music, and traditional hip-hop.

In 2024, Travis Scott has kept the momentum going, with his Utopia - Circus Maximus tour becoming one of the highest-grossing rap tours of the year. This tour, characterized by its elaborate stage design and immersive live performances, has further cemented Scott's reputation as one of the most dynamic live performers in the industry. Additionally, Scott has hinted at new music, teasing a follow-up to Utopia inspired by his experiences on tour.

If that wasn’t enough, his label and brand, Cactus Jack, is a significant force throughout the hiphop industry. It is known for fostering new talent and pushing creative boundaries. Artists like Don Toliver, Sheck Wes, and Scott himself have released influential projects under Cactus Jack, contributing to its reputation for producing chart-topping hits and innovative music. Beyond music, Cactus Jack extends into fashion and culture, with collaborations and merchandise that resonate with a wide audience, solidifying its influence across multiple domains.

For those unfamiliar with Travis Scott, his music is an experience that transcends traditional genre boundaries, offering listeners a glimpse into a world where the lines between reality and fantasy blur. His ability to create immersive, otherworldly soundscapes makes him a standout artist in the contemporary music scene, and his influence continues to grow with each new project. Whether you're drawn to his chart-topping hits or his more experimental tracks, Travis Scott's discography is a testament to his creative vision and relentless drive to innovate.

Most Popular Albums:

• ASTROWORLD

• UTOPIA

My Favorite Project:

• Days Before Rodeo

  • This mixtape is what got me into Travis Scott years after its release. The production from WondaGurl, Metro Boomin, and Mike Dean (check out their credits on hit songs and albums!) make this mixtape a classic. There’s a reason Travis’ sound is so unique. The team he has always had around him has been amazing throughout his whole career. I personally take a lot of inspiration from the sounds of this mixtape. From the grungy drums and eerie vibes of “The Prayer” to a rager like “Mamacita”, this mixtape is amazing.

My Favorite Songs:

• Days Before Rodeo: The Prayer

• coordinate

Soulful Nights with Soulchild

Musiq Soulchild

As a revered figure in the R&B and neo-soul genres, Musiq Soulchild is known for his smooth, emotive voice and deeply relatable lyrics. Emerging from Philadelphia, Musiq Soulchild burst onto the scene in the early 2000s with hits like "Just Friends (Sunny)" and "Love," which quickly became anthems for a generation. His ability to blend traditional soul influences with contemporary R&B vibes helped define the neo-soul movement of that era.

In 2023, after a six-year hiatus, Musiq Soulchild made a triumphant return with the album Victims & Villains, a collaborative effort with renowned producer Hit-Boy. This project marked a significant shift in Musiq’s sound, incorporating more modern, hip-hop-inspired production while retaining the heartfelt lyricism that has always been his trademark. The album delves into themes of love, heartbreak, and personal growth, resonating deeply with listeners who have followed his career over the years .

What sets Musiq Soulchild apart is his timeless ability to connect with his audience on an emotional level. Whether he's crooning about the joys of love or the pain of a breakup, his music has a way of speaking directly to the heart. His work, both past and present, remains a staple for anyone who appreciates authentic, soul-stirring R&B.

For those new to his music, Victims & Villains is a perfect entry point, showcasing his evolution as an artist while still paying homage to the sound that made him a household name. As he continues to tour and release new music, Musiq Soulchild remains a vital and influential voice in the world of R&B, reminding us all of the enduring power of soul music.

Most Popular Albums:

• Soulstar

• Aijuswanaseing

My Favorite Album:

•  Juslisen 

My Favorite Songs:

• sobeautiful

• Halfcrazy

Playlist of the Week: 
‘90s West Coast Essentials

Get ready to cruise down memory lane with our 90s West Coast playlist, featuring iconic tracks from The Pharcyde, Dr. Dre, and 2Pac. This playlist is a sun-soaked journey through the heart of G-Funk, where laid-back grooves meet hard-hitting lyrics, and every beat tells a story of life on the West Coast. From The Pharcyde's smooth, introspective rhymes to Dr. Dre's groundbreaking production and 2Pac's raw, unapologetic verses, this collection captures the essence of a golden era. Plug in, turn up the volume, and let these West Coast legends remind you why 90s hip-hop is forever timeless.