Profiling Mark Masri: La Voce

Mark Masri

When you see the work of an emotional painter, it evokes an emotional response. That is art. When you emotion-laden vocals, it evokes an emotional response. Art again.

Mark Masri has been developing the art of incomparable vocals since the age of five when he first started performing. As a piano player, songwriter and producer, he built his career writing music for film, TV and other singers. Having witnessed his Gilda’s Club “It’s Always Something” show performance, when he stood in for an unwell Jann Arden at the last minute, Tempo is convinced that Mark is poised to break into international stardom. He was sensational.

Hear LA VOCE – his 2010 album released by EMI Music Canada – in which he co-wrote all but one of the original songs – and you’ll be equally convinced. Or, click on the video above to hear his oustanding performance of The Face.

While many will tout his undeniable tall, dark and handsome appeal, his voice is most memorable – unforced, tender, passionate and evocative, and hard to pigeonhole in one particular genre. He has been honing his craft with church congregations (his father is a Minister) over several decades As the son of a Lebanese father and a Scottish mother, he is at ease performing songs in six languages, and has been winning the hearts of American audiences for over two years.

Now it’s OUR turn, Canada.

To give a little more insight into Mark,we talked with this gentle spirit who possesses massive vocal talent about his career.

What do you think makes you unique?

I am fortunate to have emotional connectedness. This connection with soulful interpretations creates an atmosphere of romance and inspiration – especially with multi-lingual singing. The listener can escape into the emotion when not being distracted by the literal meaning.

From where do you draw your inspiration?

A big part of this is my faith. Growing up in the church has been a life principle paradigm that I adopted. That inspires me as a performer. When it comes to the topic of love, much of my inspiration comes from my ability to love my son Lucas in the most extraordinary way, and of course I love my wife dearly. I also draw, from time to time, on pain, loss or searching that we all experience at some time.

What do you consider to be your biggest achievement?

My biggest achievement has been fathering our 6-year old son Lucas. I have no clue if I am doing it right, but he is an amazing and most important part of our lives.

How have your interests changed as you mature both in years and in your music?

In my younger years I wanted to do bubblegum pop. However, my voice has always had a bigger sound more suited to lush, big ballad material. As I’ve grown as a musician, I have come to terms with this. It’s truly amazing to arrive at the place where I am now – writing and performing the music most suited for the instrument that I have.

How would others describe you?

As a performer, I’ve been described as dreamy, passionate and a vocal sensation. Personally I’m not the most patient person, and I do get bored quickly. My wife tells me I can be naïve and too trusting, and that I need to have my eyes wide open and be realistic in certain situations.

What do you want to achieve in life as you look ahead?

I want to use the platform that I have and the opportunities that I have been given to make a difference in the world in any number of ways. It’s a real privilege as an artist to help causes that I believe in, including mental health and children affected by AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa, and

also to challenge others to get involved and to have an impact.

How do you balance your professional and personal life?

It’s tough during a six-week tour to get time at home with my wife and Lucas. But I do need to make a concerted effort not to do everything that’s offered to me professionally if I am to keep a balance. I am thankful to have time off between engagements and to focus on my home life. We may decide to expand our family. And I want to build my career, collaborate with other great artists, and do a worldwide arena tour. I’ll have to work at maintaining balance.

How would you like your story to inspire others?

The story of dreams coming true never gets tired, and I’m just another example of that. I feel that a large part of my dream is now unfolding for me. It takes perseverance, sticking with it, and being the best you can be.

What is your favourite career highlight?

It’s a combination of working with the great and hard-working David Foster and sharing the stage to sing with Olivia Newton John.

What’s one thing about you that few people know?

I am somewhat of a home handyman. It’s really therapeutic for me to do home renovations.

Mark Masri: 2011 Appearances Canada