Michael Isaak doesn’t want to end up being the Wrong Version Of Me in his new single — showcasing today on Tinnitist.
The Egyptian-American indie-folk artist’s new single is a soul-bearing and introspective track that captures the fear of losing oneself in transition. Blending heartfelt lyricism with a raw sound, the single marks another step in Isaak’s evolution as an artist, maintaining his stripped-down vulnerability while amplifying his sound with the energy of a live band.
Written in the wake of Isaak’s decision to move to New York, the song wrestles with identity, change, and the unknown. “I was honestly pretty scared,” Isaak admits. “Last time I moved away, I became someone I couldn’t recognize. In a way, this song is a promise to myself to stay as real and genuine as I can be.”
This sincerity is visible in his confessional style lyricism, which unravels his experience of struggling to differentiate between expectations and realness. The chorus, “I never thought I’d be here, with the wrong person to believe, and I never wanted to leave from here, with the wrong version of me,” encapsulates the emotional weight of these realizations, reflecting on how external influences can distort our sense of self.
His authenticity extends to the recording process, in which Isaak collaborates once again with Charlie Hickey and Tyler Graham, also bringing his band to create an instantaneous, lively sonic experience. With Matt TC Lucas on drums and Will Martinez pushing boundaries with his “wacky pedals” on electric guitar, Wrong Version Of Me carries a rich, textured instrumentation palette. Produced by Hickey and Graham, this track maintains a balance between polished indie rock and the raw, unfiltered emotion that drives the song’s narrative. The self-written song is a defining moment in Isaak’s catalogue — one that is unmistakably him, musically and lyrically.
Originally from L.A. but now based in N.Y.C., Isaak is a rising artist who blends indie-rock, folk, and alternative influences with his deeply personal storytelling. His sound is shaped by his love for guitar-driven melodies and his Arabic heritage, creating a unique fusion that resonates with listeners. In 2024, he released a six-track EP, Forever Is A Scary Word, that took nearly two years to complete because of its intricate production and heartfelt lyricism. Featuring Arabic instrumentation by Abanoub Samir on “plane thoughts,” the project went on to receive over 100,000 streams, resulting in Isaak’s largest headline show to date in Los Angeles in July 2024.
Wrong Version Of Me is a raw and intimate exploration of selfhood, transformation, and self-doubt wrapped in a lush indie soundscape. He captures the fear of losing yourself while chasing something that no longer feels right. It’s an anthem for anyone who’s ever questioned who they are, offering catharsis with every note.
Check out Wrong Version Of Me above, hear more from Michael Isaak below, and find him on his website, Instagram and TikTok.
