Issa Rae: A Digital Guru

Deon Egenti

Issa Rae built an empire off the internet. She is one of the leading Black women in Hollywood right now and you can pinpoint where it started. She brought something organic, funny, and more importantly, honest. It’s one thing to make great content, but to make relatable content is a whole different story. Issa was able to provide all of those stories whether it was from her or other creators who were trying to make a name for themselves on her platform. She has provided multiple opportunities for young Black creators to tell their own stories. However, this would not be possible at all if Issa Rae wasn’t able to tell her own. We’ll be taking a look at Issa’s journey as a digital guru and the milestones in her career that made her who she is today.

The Mis-Adventures of Awkward Black Girl

None of Issa Rae’s success would be possible if it wasn’t for The Mis-Adventures of Awkward Black Girl. A comedy web series created by and starring Issa Rae which premiered on their Youtube channel in 2011. The show is about the life of J as she socializes with co-workers and love interests who place her in awkward situations. Issa Rae was inspired to create The Mis-Adventures of Awkward Black Girl in January 2009 while working at New Federal Theatre in New York City. Neglecting the idea for two years, Issa Rae’s interest sparked back after reading an article by Leslie Pitterson talking about the absence of black women portraying nerd characters on screen. She then called on friends to shoot the first episode. The show received rave reviews and it was popular all over social media. To fund the rest of the season, Issa Rae and producer Tracy Oliver decided to start a Kickstarter account to raise money. They were able to raise 56,269 dollars. Afterward, the second season started on Pharrell’s i am OTHER Youtube channel, it won a Shorty Award for Best Web Series, and Issa was featured on Forbes 30 Under 30 Entertainment List.

Issa Rae Presents

Following the success of Awkward Black Girl, Issa launched her own production company called “Issa Rae Presents.” It allows writers, directors, and producers of color to have their work seen by thousands of people through our monthly showcase, #ShortFilmSundays. The production company also provides content such as “A Sip…” which is an event where Issa interviews some of the biggest Black creators in the entertainment industry. Finally, they provide all behind-the-scenes content of what Issa is doing. This is just another example of using a digital platform to provide access and opportunity.

Insecure

The show which took her to new heights. The HBO comedy series, created by Issa Rae and Larry Wilmore, is partially based on Awkward Black Girl and it has been viewed by hundreds and thousands of people on average. It was critically acclaimed by fans and critics alike. From the relatable scenes about relationships to the amazing song choices for every season, Insecure showcases what it’s like to be a Black woman in Inglewood, CA. Although the show is, unfortunately, ending with its fifth and final season, we will never forget the laughs and memories the show brought us. It was must-see television every Sunday on HBO.

Raedio

In 2019, Issa Rae launched Raedio with Atlantic Records. They kicked off the partnership by releasing “Kinda Love’’ by TeaMarrr who is their first signed artist. Raedio helps artists and creators execute their ideas at the highest level. The label also is a platform to line up acts with film and television projects, commercials, podcasts, and other endeavors. In 2020, Yung Baby Tate released her EP “After The Rain’’ through her partnership with the label. Her song, “I Am” featuring Flo Milli, has been blowing up on TikTok. The label is looking to have a promising year at the rate it’s going.

Hoorae Production Company

In 2020, Issa Rae launched her newest media production company named Hoorae. Hoorae will house all of her multi-media production companies. It will also include her show “Insecure” and the HBO sketch series “A Black Lady Sketch Show.” Additionally, Hoorae will be producing several more HBO and HBO Max shows while adding projects scheduled to appear on Netflix, Universal in collaboration with Monkeypaw Productions, and Spyglass.

WarnerMedia

As if 2021 couldn’t get any bigger for Issa, she has signed a five-year overall deal with WarnerMedia, expanding their relationship from previous projects. This new eight-figure deal is exclusive to WarnerMedia for all forms of television, including. HBO, HBO Max, and Warner Bros. Television. The new agreement also includes a first-look deal for film projects for Warner Bros., HBO Max, and New Line. These projects will be created with Rae’s media company, HOORAE.

There is no mountain that Issa Rae can’t climb. Her empire is stronger than ever and her platform continues to grow immensely. She is pushing the community forward with her involvement in television, film, and music. The legacy continues to build as the digital guru, Issa, continues to shine in all aspects.