Josef Tarrak-Petrussen: They see us as drunks, nobodies, arctic monkeys—but we are Tupilak!!

A Greenlandic rapper and theatre maker known under the stage name Tarrak (in Greenlandic “shadow”), he was born in Nanortalik, Greenland. His mother is Greenlandic and his father is of Moroccan origin. Tarrak creates exclusively in his native Greenlandic language (kalaallisut), thereby emphasising the importance of language for identity while also contributing to its preservation and contemporary cultural expression. In 2016, he released his debut album FxGxS, which sparked considerable controversy in Greenland. In particular, the track Tupilak became a major hit. It addresses linguistic conformity and discrimination, critically targeting social conditions and racism. This openness and engagement have brought him significant attention and popularity in Greenland and Denmark alike, while also opening debate about his relationship to home and his own identity.

He has been awarded by the Greenlandic government for his work. In his music, he explores themes of colonialism, identity, and social pressure. His sound is also distinctive: alongside rap, he incorporates elements inspired by nature and biodiversity, which he creates using his own voice.