Rashad Thomas’ latest release I Was Promised There’d Be Gold is a Columbus one-man choir from who arrived ahead of the schedule in underground R&B. Rashad Thomas is a local beat maker who produced songs for famous people like Jack Harlow. Rashad’s family includes J. Sands of 90s indie rap pioneering rap duo J-Rawls’ Lone Catalysts. Rashad made hip hop with underground Columbus rap cats P. Black, LE, Fly Union and Rashad’s Elevator Music crew. Rashad can sing. Rashad can compose. Rashad can rap.
The beginning of "I Was Promised There’d Be Gold” is about Rashad’s diaspora and relationship with Christ. Rashad’s album’s first several songs travels from 90s boom-bap into almost house music with R&B vocals. “Larry’s Lament” blares horns until Rashad raps and croons into an almost Screw Up click bass and symbol debouch. “The Craft” segues from church into pedestrian life.
If you want sex music without thinking about Christ…I recommend “Like We Young.” If you want sex jams with monogamy I would try “Ribbons.” I don’t know if “Ribbons” is about marriage. “Boom” finds Rashad singing love with muse lust which Jodeci would impress by your boo. Perhaps “Ribbons” is about marriage because “Still In Love.” is a slow swoon about continued care.
“Courage” brings back Rashad’s 90s sounding rap production with singing. “Who” shows Rashad needs love. Rashad singers can’t stand around crushing without some reciprocation. During “Feathers” Rashad confesses perhaps he disappoints a lady but Rashad still cares about a lady who cares about Rashad. “Make Believe” almost sounds like he is discussing with his lady Rashad understands his various productions for Puff, Rick Ross, Jadakiss, and Harlow implied Rashad was destined for superstar status. Maybe “Feathers” was about a lady believing in her loved ones’ potential and finding the music industry had other plans.
Rashad’s new album is distributed by New York City back pack label Fat Beats. Rashad Thomas’ 2026 release showcases a talented Columbus creative who exists somewhere between New Edition, and Frank Ocean.
I wouldn’t say I’m in love with Rashad. I’m heterosexual. I’ve chilled with Rashad. We’re cool. I prefer white women.
Rashad’s music still possesses accolades and stature. Rashad music is filled with artistic prowess. Rashad isn’t R. Kelly. I won’t create a list of R&B superstars who I find embarrassing. I would say Rashad in 2026 should be proud of his body of work.