Ian Isiah

Ian Isiah was already being himself even before it was cool to be yourself. At least that’s how the New Yorker puts it. Just what that means in musical terms, though, is not so simple to break down: His first mixtapes ranged from electro to hip-hop and R&B to experimental sounds; his debut album »AUNTIE« from last year was based on Prince-worshipping electro-funk and soul – music that’s fun but still has a serious agenda. So does Isiah’s digital work for Pop-Kultur: »Precious Lord« was shot in the historic location of Colonial Williamsburg, its idyllic atmosphere contrasted with spoken-word interventions and a piercing performance. It’s a piece that can literally be understood as a (sound) prayer, yet it deals with very material issues: solidarity and awareness of social injustices as they shape this world.