Today we’d like to introduce you to Eric (Mahalicci) Tolbert
Hi Eric (Mahalicci), so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Growing up wasn’t the easiest, my family did the best they could. I was born and raised in Akron, Ohio. Me and my mother moved from property to property til we could find something stable; and weekends were with my Dad. I was her only child, so I often found comfort outside of my family. That comfort was through art and music. As a child I would sit there for hours, drawing and making up songs not knowing it would eventually take me somewhere great. As the years went on and I got older, I fell more and more into the role as a creative. My skills and talents increasing by every body of work I produce. Through accidents, through trauma, through life I continued to follow my dreams no matter where I was. To this day, I am now getting recognized for the artist that I am. And I appreciate everybody that wants to see me succeed. Akron has tons of hidden talent, and I am merely one of them. I plan to continue my journey and follow my dreams because if I don’t who will?
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Every one of us has their own battles with life. I’ve been in numerous accidents, situations, and scenarios that I couldn’t make up even if I tried. The physicality is only one side to it, and your mind is the other; which can be a struggle to keep solid at times. It doesn’t matter where you came from, no matter what happens to you, you can never lose sight of your main goal. Everyone has the ability to grow, learn, and maintain what they truly desire in this world.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m going to respond to this question with 2 answers because I can do more than one thing.
On the art side, I specialize in abstract realism, and photorealistic portraits. I can take a picture of you, and produce the very same image on paper; Or if you have an idea for a piece, I could bring it to life exactly how you intended it to be.
I would love to sell my art one day, or even contract some commissions because that only builds up your portfolio as an artist. When we get to the music, that’s a whole different ball game. From a young age, I’ve always enjoyed playing instruments. When I was in the orchestra, I played the viola, violin, piano, and recorder. Today, I mix and master songs out my bedroom for a hobby. I’ve been making music since 2018, and I’m just now starting to get recognized for my efforts. Music is always something I could fall back on; something I never get tired of. I plan on releasing everything that I’ve created within the past 5 years or so before the end of the year. I hope and pray that it goes well with the public because I know this is something I was meant to do. My dream is to be a famous artist, and musician.. and I will do just that.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
The people who deserve the most credit is my late Uncle Steve, and his son aka my cousin Steve Jr for specific reasons. My uncle Steve got me into art one day when I’ve always had an interest in art, but one day he caught me, told me to sit down and draw a single figure. I memorized that figure and began drawing more and more. Expanding my horizons, and making me learn the art of patience while spending hours learning an art form. My Uncle Steve ended up falling ill with multiple myeloma, and passing away at the age of 50. I continue to draw til this day. Now if we switch it over to music, my story starts in 2018 when Steve Jr. sent me some music software for my birthday (mixcraft pro studio 8) in 2018. At first I had no idea what I was doing, but eventually I caught on and began making songs. One thing led to another and now I’m getting recognized for my work in more ways than one. I am forever thankful for their influence in my life because without them, I have no idea where I would be in this world.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mahalicci?igsh=MTAwb2oyaW4zMmlnZQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/AHDNhFitwBqYpscx/?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@mahalicci?si=JGs6QgB4hR4KBtDo
- Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/VrZ9kP3rdPSB54Fx9
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@mahaliccitv?_t=8myucdSemPz&_r=1
