Friday Feature: Tarishi M.I.D.N.I.G.H.T Shuler

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I was instantly captivated by his voice. Who was this spirited, sexy, mysterious man who could put shoes on words and make them take a walk.   His lyrical incantations quickly swept me to a place.  I do not know where I was. I am  lost in a magical swirl of something wonderful. A real poet, model, actor and real artist.  He takes you to a place painted by words.   Words that draw scenes and situations. That’s power.

“They say that the grave has no remembrance of me. So when I go six feet deep will I have any memories of me?…I’m still alive and I know not of death. And right now, death knows not of me“.

Tarish Schuler is known as Legend of M.I.D.N.I.G.H.T.  He instantly portrays the charm of moonlight and the mystery of how words can be used to empower and dis-empower. His soulful incantations portray a world where words become faces mirroring each other, reflecting.  The tune resumes and once more, Tarishi takes us someplace new.  I could listen him all day long. Find him on Facebook.

First off – can we have a little background information – Where you live? How old you are? What motivates you? Inspires you?

I was born in New Haven, CT but right now I currently live in West Haven. I am 34 years old. But don’t tell anyone [Laughing out loud].
What motivates me? People, I’m motivated by the people. Whether it’s connecting with one another or encouraging them do better for themselves.
What inspires me? Oh that’s easy, mainly The Most High/GOD & life. That is what basically defines me. Life and everything about it inspires me as well.

Did reading a poem first spark the desire to write poetry or was it an experience?

Well to be truthful, I started as an emcee. I was and still am a huge fan of “The Roots” after hearing this poem on their second album I was like “Wow” I wrote poetry to myself but as the years went on poetry grew more and more on me. I soon found myself being a part of this movement of spoken word. And I meet a lot of great people along the way.

Your poetry has Jazz influence. Not only do you invoke the aura of Miles, Coltrane, Parker, etc. in your written word you also use jazz or bluesy tones in your performances. How did you come across all of this?

Wow! Thank you! I am humbled. Those are some great musicians you just mentioned. I thank you. I enjoy listen to Jazz. And I have some Miles and Coltrane albums. It all started ever since I saw “Mo’ Better Blues”. From there I had a love and appreciation for jazz.

You are many things. You are an actor, a musician, a poet. How do you balance different roles in your life?

[Smiling] Well I really can’t take credit for begin a musician since I don’t play any instruments. I can strike a few piano keys and read sheet music but one day I will learn how to play an instrument. So I guess the only hats I’m wearing would be actor, model, and poet. I must say, it can get difficult at times. What I try to do is, not put too much on my plate. Focus on one thing at a time and when the task is done move on to the next. Like I said I try and sometimes I forget that. [Laughter]

I know there is a meaning behind your name. Tell us about it:

My birth name is Tarishi and that is Swahili for “messenger”. My pseudonym is M.I.D.N.I.G.H.T. and it’s an acronym which stands for “Messiah Is Dominant Now Inspired God Helps Tarishi”.  Like I said earlier The LORD is my main inspiration.

Are you currently working on anything?

Yes, I’m currently working on a few things. I just did a photo shoot earlier this month. I’m in a fashion show in the end of this month and I’ll be in Springfield, MA this month performing at the Indie Soul Festival, I’m working with NuRevealed Photography on an up incoming calendar, and some more photo shoots.  To be honest I don’t like mentioning things until they happen. But I’m putting it all out there. I’ll leave it in God’s hands and pray for completion.

Are there poems that are meant to be read in silence, perhaps a silent meditation on meaning, that don’t need to be read out loud?

Of course. And to me those are the best ones. Those types of poems are very intimate and personal. And when you I do get the chance to share them it’s like therapy. It’s poetry. [smiling]

What is the best advice you have ever been given?

Hmmm. That’s a tough one. Hmmm…the first thing that comes to mind is. “Always put GOD first & don’t stop”

Which artists do you admire?

Wow! There’s some many …. You know the best way I can answer that question for you is. I admire any artist that is being true to themselves. And if you are an artist for a better tomorrow, I truly admire you and your work. Because what we artists do is a lot of hard work.

What is your best attribute?

Ooh. From what I was told, I have a good spirit. So to everyone that saw attribute in me I thank you. As for me, I would like to say I am very easy going.

Favorite lyric from a song?

Wow! I can’t answer that one.

What are your future goals?

Be successful in all that I do. While on this path help others I meet become successful too. Write a book and see the world.

Word you live by?

Treat others how you would like to be treated. Onelove & Selah.

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