It takes a certain grit to make it out of Mobile, AL. With a population just shy of 200,000 people, its denizens often find themselves stuck in “The Port City” for generations beset by a high crime rate and minimal opportunities. Nevertheless, Li Rye lifts himself beyond the boundaries of his hometown through unfiltered storytelling, unnerving bars, and undeniable melodies. Rather than accept the limitations of his surroundings, the rapper consistently aims much higher. Generating millions of streams and views on his own and landing a deal with Gucci Mane’s The New 1017, he amplifies the voice of his city on his forthcoming 2023 debut and much more to come.