The Storyteller

Brandon Isaac, a Cincinnati native, is a multifaceted storyteller, teaching artist, and performer passionate about fostering creativity and healing through the arts. His musical journey started at nine, influenced by his stepfather’s eclectic taste in ‘90s hip-hop and alternative rock, including artists like Coldplay and Linkin Park. This diverse exposure broadened Brandon’s appreciation for various genres, inspiring his own artistic endeavors.

Over the past decade, Brandon has honed his craft, performing in diverse venues across the Midwest and East Coast, from local bars to comedy clubs. His experiences, including overcoming the tragic loss of his best friend, have deeply shaped his art and teaching philosophy. As the Storytelling Director at WordPlay Cincy, he channels these experiences to uplift and mentor young artists, emphasizing the transformative power of storytelling and self-expression.

Beyond his work with WordPlay Cincy, Brandon has collaborated with various organizations, including Xavier University, The University of Cincinnati, Hamilton Public Defenders Office, The Pearl (an AI-powered tool designed to guide individuals through life’s emotional challenges with empathy and insight), The Poetry Foundation, and the Contemporary Arts Center. He leads workshops that integrate storytelling with visual and audio arts, demonstrating his dedication to community engagement and social justice. Brandon’s efforts aim to create inclusive spaces for artistic exploration, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment for all.

Musically, Isaac draws inspiration from artists like DOOM, Yasiin Bey, Nas, KA, Elzhi, and Common, as well as shoegaze rock bands. His approach mirrors that of an abstract expressionist painter, embracing a formless quality that allows his creativity to flow freely. His albums, including “Evolution Of Existence” (2022), “Another Level of Existence: Mastery Of Acceptance” (2024), and “The North Star: Introspection” (2025), explore themes of personal growth, self-acceptance, and the balance between love and power.

In the future, Isaac aspires to become a traveling youth arts advocate, with the ultimate goal of establishing spaces where young artists can freely express themselves through multimedia art. By seamlessly blending hip-hop and artistic education, he aims to empower the next generation to discover and share their voices.