Today we’d like to introduce you to Tarli.
Tarli, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
The quick version of my story is that I immigrated from Liberia to the U.S. in the ’90s as a child. Growing up, I played the piano and cello, which were the cataylist for my career. Even though I don’t have vivid memories of life in Liberia, I realized I was different from the other kids around me. My parents spoke their dialect at home, cooked traditional foods that no one in my neighborhood had ever heard of, and had cultural values and rules that didn’t always line up with what my peers experienced. At the same time, I was constantly told by my parents to assimilate into American culture, which created a tension I couldn’t ignore.
As I got older, I started to feel like I was living in two separate worlds. One as a first-generation refugee, trying to honor my roots, and one as a Black man in America, trying to fit into a society that didn’t always understand me, nor did I understand it. That’s when I started getting into hip-hop. I had a friend who let me listen to a Busta Rhymes CD, and from there, I was hooked. I began to write my own lyrics, and at first, it was something to do when my friends and I would hang out, and after a while, it became a way to cope with the shift in my personal life and family dynamic.
Fast forward a bit—two name changes and four groups later—and here I am, Tarli, the leader of The Tribe, an artist collective that brings together talent from across different backgrounds and genres. Music has been the thread that has kept me grounded through it all, and now it’s how I share my story and my experiences with the world.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey hasn’t been easy. When I first told my family I wanted to make hip-hop music, they urged me to reconsider—they had envisioned me becoming a pastor. Despite their concerns, I decided to pursue my passion, even though it meant doing everything on my own. From recording and writing to finding gigs, pressing CDs, and drafting press releases, I had to figure it all out myself.
Living in Shoreview at the time added another layer of difficulty. It wasn’t exactly a hub for hip-hop, and getting out to Minneapolis, where the scene was thriving, was a challenge. So, I made the most of what I had. I performed wherever I could—at high school events, talent shows, house parties—anywhere that gave me a chance to share my music.
By the time I started performing full-time in the Twin Cities, things had started to pick up. The Shoreview Press, a local publication, highlighted my first group, D-Mine, and we even got a few offers to play at the Slice of Shoreview Festival. Instead of letting my location or lack of support hold me back, I used those challenges as fuel to prove everyone wrong and carve my own path.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
First and foremost, I’m a Hip-Hop Artist; I’ve been a proud part of the vibrant Twin Cities hip-hop scene for over a decade—my stage name is Tarli—formerly known as EL.i.BE—draws inspiration from my Liberian roots. It comes from my middle name, given by my mother’s tribe, and means “successful journey.” That theme runs deep in my music, reflecting my experiences as a first-generation refugee navigating life in America.
Musically, I take cues from artists like J. Cole, Isaiah Rashad, Mick Jenkins, and Jay Rock, crafting lyrics that explore the complexities of the immigrant experience, the struggles, and the triumphs.
I’m also an artist manager and the founder of The Tribe, a collective of talented artists and DJ/producers that includes Graydon Francis, IAMKAYE, MidiEvil, Diatonic, Stefan Wolf, and myself. While I specialize in writing, recording, and setting up shows, I also wear a lot of hats, like executive producing and recording engineer for Graydon and IAMKAYE, directing music videos, and more.
There are so many things I’ve accomplished that I’m proud of, but my top three stand out:
TV placements – I have 28 songs featured in shows across MTV, VH1, Disney+, and more.
Performances – Performing alongside artists like Mac Lethal, Libianca, and Prof has been a huge highlight.
Building chemistry within The Tribe – For over a decade, we’ve toured, performed, and written songs together, forging a bond that has made The Tribe feel like family. Each artist brings their own unique flavor to the mix, and the synergy we’ve built creates live performances that are truly one-of-a-kind.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Invest in and believe in yourself.
This is everything. As an artist, entrepreneur, or manager, if you don’t believe in what you’re bringing to the table, no one else will. You have to put the time energy, and resources into yourself and your craft. Whether it’s developing your skills, or even just learning the business side of things, the investment y u make in yourself shows others that you’re serious. That belief in yourself is what makes people want to work with you—it’s magnetic. If you’re not willing to bet on yourself, why would anyone else?
Surround yourself with hardworking and supportive people.
Your circle can make or break you. Having people around you who share your drive and vision is critical. In my experience, it’s not just about having talented people in your corner—it’s about having people who work hard and genuinely believe in what you’re doing. As an artist manager, I’ve seen firsthand how much of a difference it makes to have a solid, reliable team willing to do the work. Collaboration, accountability, and support are everything when you’re building something. Find people who inspire you to level up, and don’t be afraid to cut ties with those who hold you back.
Talent opens doors, but hard work takes you where you want to go.
The truth is that talent is just the starting point. I’ve come across so many crazy talented artists, but the one who stand out are the ones willing to grind for it. Whether it’s staying consistent, taking risks, or finding ne ways to innovate, hard work is what sets you apart. I’ve learned that hard work isn’t just about putting in the hours— t’s about being strategic and always moving forward. In this industry, you can’t rely on talent alone.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tarlimusic.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tarli_music
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Tarlimusic/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tarlimusic
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/tarli_music
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/thetribemn/
