Michael I-zayah: Cowboy From the Eastside — Redefining Genre, Breaking Limits
Michael I-zayah is not an artist who believes in staying inside one lane. With appearances in both mainstream and independent films, and a bold musical pivot into Country/Southern Soul, the rising multi-hyphenate is proving that versatility isn’t just a skill—it’s his identity.
Recently seen in the BET Plus holiday film Blended Christmas and the indie project 30-Year-Old Freshman (set to stream on Tubi), Michael continues to expand his creative résumé while simultaneously introducing fans to a new chapter of his musical journey. For him, acting and music are deeply connected forms of storytelling.
“Acting taught me how to embody different personalities and make them believable,” Michael explains. “It’s about learning the character and catching the audience’s attention. That same approach applies to my music. I’ve always had multiple sides creatively, and I’ve proven over the years that I can deliver across genres.”
Though his recent screen appearances are gaining attention, Michael’s acting roots go back much further. Before stepping into films, he performed in stage plays and later landed his first major on-screen lead role in Lit: The Movie in 2017, now available on YouTube and Amazon Prime. Each role, he says, sharpened his understanding of presence, timing, and emotional authenticity—tools he now carries into every studio session.
Balancing music and film is no small task, but Michael approaches it with discipline and intention. “It’s all about making time,” he says. “I’ve always loved acting—Broadway, stage plays, film sets. I was fascinated by the art of filming and the doors it could open for me long-term. Building a résumé with both independent and mainstream projects is important to me.”
A Surprising Turn Toward Country
Perhaps the most unexpected evolution in Michael I-zayah’s career is his move into Country/Southern Soul music—a genre shift that even surprised him.
“To be honest, I never thought in a million years I’d do country music,” he admits.
The transition began as a suggestion from a friend while shopping Michael’s music to record labels. While executives praised his versatility in rap, hip-hop, R&B, pop, and even rock-influenced records, they challenged him to explore country. Initially shocked, Michael leaned into what he’s always done best: experimentation.
“I’ve done almost every genre except country,” he says. “So I thought, why not? I’ll never know unless I try.”
That leap of faith led to a collaboration with producer KC Da Beatmonster, marking both artists’ first official step into country music. The result? A sound that blends Southern soul, country storytelling, and subtle trap elements—something entirely his own.
‘Wheels Fall Off’ & A New Sound Emerges
Michael’s current single, “Wheels Fall Off,” has quickly become a fan favorite, earning strong support and expanding his audience beyond expectations.
“It’s a romantic love story told in a country, Southern way,” he explains. “It’s feel-good music.”
While rooted in country, the track carries modern influences, making it accessible to fans across genres. Michael is optimistic about its future, even hinting at award recognition. “If it ever gets recognized at the Grammys, whether as Best Contemporary Country Song or Album, I’d be grateful just to be acknowledged.”
Encouraged by the response, Michael plans to continue performing the song and growing his country fan base organically—one show, one listener at a time.
‘Cowboy From the Eastside’
The upcoming EP Cowboy From the Eastside isn’t just a title—it’s a statement.
“I’m from the east side,” Michael says. “East Atlanta and East Buffalo, New York. So it fits me perfectly.”
The “cowboy” symbolism represents his embrace of country music, while the “Eastside” roots ground the project in his real-life journey. Living in Atlanta, a city where country artists are finding success alongside hip-hop and R&B acts, Michael sees no boundaries.
“If they can do it, I can do it too. There are no limits.”
Independence, Vision & What’s Next
Releasing the EP independently comes with challenges, especially financially, but Michael values the creative freedom it gives him. “Having control over my vision is important,” he says, while also sharing long-term goals of signing a major-label partnership through his independent imprint, Galaxy Music Group.
As for what comes after the country EP, Michael keeps it intentionally mysterious. “A different sound, a different look, and surprises people wouldn’t expect,” he says. “You just have to stay tuned.”
Defining Success & Building a Legacy
At this stage of his journey, success isn’t measured by numbers alone. “It’s about taking things one step at a time,” Michael explains. “Making better moves than the last and learning from my mistakes.”
Looking ahead, his vision is clear: impact, authenticity, and inspiration.
“I want people to know that I touched lives,” he says. “That I made my family proud, that my fans felt seen, and that someone who looks like me could relate. I want to be remembered as an artist who did it all, stayed true to himself, and showed others that their dreams are possible.”
With music, film, and fearless creativity driving him forward, Michael I-zayah isn’t just stepping into new territory—he’s redefining what it means to be an artist without limits.
