Your new single “Did You Run?” has been described as a modern folk masterpiece. What inspired the creation of this track, both lyrically and musically?

A: It came from a moment in time when something happened to me that was pretty unexpected and changed my life forever. It made me contemplate my understanding of myself and the universe. The lyrics are inspired by the battle of trusting my inner truth or falling prey to fear and deception.

The song features intricate guitar work and a blend of Western psych melodies. How did you approach the instrumentation to achieve that haunting yet expansive sound?

A: I was taking guitar lessons from this Hungarian guy and he showed me a different way to position my fingers with the d minor chord. This allowed me to move my ring finger. Then I just put on a capo and moved it around the fretboard until it felt good.

Coming off your debut EP Boxes in 2024, how do you feel “Did You Run?” reflects your evolution as a band?

A: I’m pretty excited about it. I think Boxes did the job for where I was at as a musician for the time but there’s still a lot of room for growth. I think Did You Run was a step in the right direction. 

You’re based in Little Chute, Wisconsin—a place not typically known as an indie-folk hub. How has your hometown influenced your music and identity as a collective?

A: It’s definitely been an unusual experience. I didn’t grow up playing music therefore many people don’t know me that way. It’s been humbling but also it’s kept me grounded. I’m glad to be from a wholesome community of people. Don’t sleep on Wisconsin musicians though. There’s definitely an untapped hub of talent. 

The press release mentions your “seamless chemistry” as a band. Can you share a bit about how you all collaborate during the songwriting and recording process?

A: Honestly, since this song has been released the band is no longer working together and I’m riding solo. My process is pretty simple. I play something until it feels good and then I make up lyrics that make sense to what I’m feeling. Pretty much all my music is from personal experience.

“Did You Run?” is said to capture the complexities of human emotion. What story or feeling were you hoping to convey to listeners with this track?

A: Did you run from your fears or did you face them? 

Your music blends roots-rock tradition with indie innovation. Which artists or genres have been the biggest influences on your unique sound?

A: I grew up listening to a large variety of music. Pink Floyd, Neil Young, Be Good Tanya’s, Dire Straits, Nick Drake. I also love Irish music and the Irish people in general. 

With 2025 just beginning, what’s next for Isiah & The New People? Are there plans for a new EP, album, or tour following this single?

A: There’s a studio in town that has an Aengus/API Custom 30 Channel recording console but it’s getting shipped in late July. My plan is to record an album before it leaves for London. I just started working on it and it feels really good There’s plenty of work to do but I feel confident it’ll be a jump up from Boxes. 

How has the response from your growing fanbase impacted your approach to making music, especially with a song as emotionally resonant as “Did You Run?”?

A: Nothing yet. As much as I have a growing fan base I still live in Little Chute and nobody gives a shit who I am at the local Piggly Wiggly. In all seriousness though it’ll be a challenge to remain open and vulnerable as an artist as more people are able to peer into my life. I plan to stay true to myself and make music I can be proud of. I know I have another level to hit and if more people are going to be listening to my stuff then I want to make sure I put my best foot forward everyday. If my fanbase is growing then I need to grow too.

For those new to your music, what do you hope they take away from their first listen to “Did You Run?” and your work as a band overall?

A: I hope they view me as an honest person and they keep me on their radar. I’m excited to grow as a musician and also as an artist. I love cracking jokes so I hope they are able to get to see a different side of me as well. I think this next album will be a step up. Hoping to hit the road thereafter. Thanks to anyone that supports me along the way.