MARK MASRI'S LATEST
| News From Mark... - Monday, February 22, 2010 Mark's News From January and New Photos
January has been a busy month. First of all, I'm so excited that La Voce is now available though Green Hill Music, which distributes to a network of 10,000 gift stores in the U.S. and Canada. You can also order directly from www.MarkMasri.com. On May 4th, La Voce will be available on iTunes, Amazon and in record stores across the U.S. and Canada.
Last week, I did a new photo shoot with ace photographer John Ganun in L.A. at the legendary Capitol Tower. We shot both on the rooftop with the skyline of L.A. behind me, and in Capitol Studio A. So cool to be in the same studio where icons like Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland and Dean Martin made records. The day after we did our photo shoot, David Foster was in Studio A recording strings for the version of "Bridge Over Troubled Waters" with Andrea Bocelli and Mary J. Blige which debuted on the Grammy's to raise funds for Haiti. I downloaded mine - have you got yours? That recording was arranged and mixed by Jochem van der Saag, who also produced "Hold on" for me on La Voce. Bocelli and Blige did an awesome version, and anything we can do to help Haiti is important.
I met Foster in person a few nights later, when we both attended an event honoring Canadians who were involved in Grammy nominated projects. David was there for his work with Seal and Michael Buble, and I was there for my guest appearance on Jim Brickman's Grammy nominated album, Faith. Below you can see a photo with my beautiful wife Angela, Amy Sky, Warner's A&R executive and fellow Canadian, Jaymes Foster and her brother David.
I didn't get to attend the Grammy's, as I was performing in Cincinnati that night with the Cincinnati Pops orchestra. What a thrill and an honor to be in the historic Music Hall, with 3,000 enthusiastic symphony fans. Under the baton of Steven Reineke, who also conducts the New York City Pops at Carnegie Hall and Jim Brickman at the piano, Caruso has never felt better! Below is a photo of Steven with the Brickman cast - Jim, Anne Cochran, Tracy Silverman and myself backstage.
And finally, you can see a photo taken at Hugo Boss headquarters in Toronto, with the amazing Brian Bailey along side Hugo Boss Canada President, Les Minion. They helped style the clothes for the Capitol photo shoot and string of tour dates. Many thanks to Hugo Boss!
So that was my January. Will check back in at the end of February to fill you in on my concerts in Nashville, Sacramento, Toronto and more!
Mark
Jim Brickman, Anne Cochran, me, Tracy Silverman, Steven Reineke (Cincinnati backstage) |
Tracy Silverman, Jim Brickman, Anne Cochran,
me (Cincinnati with the Pops) |
Me, my wife Angela, Amy Sky, Jaymes Foster, David Foster |
Brian Bailey, Amy Sky, Les Minion, me
(Hugo Boss headquarters, Toronto) |
This is me from the L.A. rooftop photo shoot |
| MARK MASRI'S 'LA VOCE' NOW AVAILABLE! - Monday, February 01, 2010
LA VOCE means "the voice."
One listen to this collection of passionate and heartfelt songs, and it is clear that Canadian vocal sensation, Mark Masri, has been blessed with one of the great voices of our time. His virtuosic instrument soars effortlessly through Italian classics such as CARUSO,
BUONGIORNO PRINCIPESSA and LA PRIMA VOLTA. His soulful interpretations of such ballads as TRULY and FIX YOU, which glide over romantic orchestral treatments, create a new benchmark in elegance and sincerity.
But beyond the voice of the singer, LA VOCE is also the voice of a gifted writer. Masri's own compositions are finely crafted, personal works. TIME, a stunning duet with acclaimed American singer, Nita Whitaker, is a moving exploration of the fragility of life and the power of love. I OWE YOU is a simple letter of gratitude that could serve as an artful tribute to any mentor in one's life. A SONG CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE is a compassionate message of hope.
Another original, A MOTHER'S LOVE, was composed by EMI recording artist Amy Sky. In 2009, this beautiful collaboration with chart topping American pianist, Jim Brickman, was the soundtrack to a best-selling American Greetings Mother's Day E-card. The song will also be featured in a national Mother's Day campaign in 2010.
The initial focus track, HOLD ON, to be released to radio in January 2010, was produced by Los Angeles based recording ace Jochem VanderSaag (Josh Groban, Seal, Michael Buble, Celine Dion).
To round out this collection of international, orchestral pop, Masri sings in French (J'ATTENDRAI, a reworking of his hit song, THE FACE), Spanish (FRAGILIDAD, a collaboration with Latin superstar, Jon Secada, and Mediterranean guitarist, Pavlo, on Sting's FRAGILE), Hebrew and Arabic (EREV SHEL SHOSHANIM, a duet with Masri's co-producer, Amy Sky).
Compulsively listenable, this timeless recording will appeal to fans of all ages.
LA VOCE is a desert island disc for music lovers who seek gorgeous melodies and meaningful words, delivered by a breathtaking voice.
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| Mark Live in Buffalo, NY December 30, 2009 - Thursday, December 24, 2009 Mark will be performing in Buffalo, NY on December 30th, why not make it a road-trip? Here is a map to get you started. Visit the tour section for more details.
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| Exclusive Mark Masri Listening Party & Preorder Discount - Wednesday, December 09, 2009 |
| 'Christmas Is' - Friday, November 27, 2009 Mark sings 'Christmas Is' accompanied by Jim Brickman...
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| Mark on Tour Now in Beautiful World Christmas - Wednesday, November 25, 2009 Mark is now on the road for the Beautiful World Christmas Tour, and it's a show that you don't want to miss! Mark is performing with friends Jim Brickman and Anne Cochran as they perform fan favorites as well as some new material from their Beautiful World concert special, and much more! So, come out this holiday season and celebrate Christmas with beautiful music and wonderful people. We hope to see you out on the road! The upcoming dates for the tour are:
11/24/2009 - Oklahoma City, OK
11/28/2009 - Birmingham, AL
11/29/2009 - Chattanooga, TN
11/30/2009 - Huntsville, AL
12/01/2009 - Evansville, IN
12/02/2009 - Wabash, IN
12/03/2009 - Indianapolis, IN
12/04/2009 - Knoxville, TN
12/05/2009 - Columbus, GA
12/18/2009 - Toledo, OH
12/19/2009 - Cleveland, OH
12/20/2009 - Rochester, NY
12/21/2009 - Hershey, PA
12/22/2009 - Montclair, NJ
12/23/2009 - Frederick, MD
Click here for more information on tickets, venues and concert times at Mark's tour page. |
| Mark Masri's New Single, "The Prayer," Now on iTunes! - Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Right now you can visit the iTunes store to download the new single "The Prayer" from Mark Masri. This is a track you are definitely going to want to get your hands on, because it will not be appearing on his new album La Voce, which will be available in January 2010.
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| Mark Discusses 'Christmas Is'... - Tuesday, November 24, 2009 |
| Recap, Video, and Photos From 'The Battle of the Blades'... - Monday, November 23, 2009 On November 16, I had the privilege of singing TIME, a song from my upcoming cd LA VOCE, at an incredible event- the finale of CBC's The Battle of the Blades.
This past summer, my co-writer and co-producer Amy Sky and I had just finished recording the song with American singer Nita Whitaker as my duet partner. Nita tours with David Foster, and at one of their shows Amy had heard Nita do a spine- tingling version of THE PRAYER, so we thought she would be the perfect voice with me on TIME.
Shortly after we finished that recording, Amy was contacted by her good friend skater Barb Underhill, who was looking for a song that her daughter Samantha Gaetz could sing, during the Blades finale.
To add to the story, Barb and Sam wanted to sing a song in honor of Sam's twin sister Stephanie, who had passed away 16 years earlier. They have always felt Stephanie as a beautiful presence in their lives, and they wanted a song that would express to her that her passing, had taught them to appreciate the precious gift of time.
So as I sang at Maple Leaf Gardens with Sam, Barb skated not only with her Blades partner NHL star Ron Duguay, but also re-united with her world championship partner Paul Martini on ice for the first time in 11 years. Knowing this back story, it was emotional for all of us-and we were told that even the gang of ex- NHL players who were watching in the green room- were in tears!
Quite an evening.
Below is a video clip from the finale of CBC's 'The Battle of the Blades'.
Here are a few photos from the event.
Mark, Barb, Sam, Paul Underhill NS ex-NHL star Ron Duguay
Mark, Sam and Barb
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| Mark Shares Some Photos... - Friday, November 13, 2009
Mark and Jochem van der Saag Recording 'HOLD ON'
Mark, Amy Sky and Olivia Newton John in Santa Monica
Mark On Beach In Santa Monica |
| MARK ON BATTLE OF THE BLADES - Thursday, November 12, 2009
Make sure to catch the finale of BATTLE OF THE BLADES on CBC at 7 pm on Monday November 16th. I will be singing TIME, from my upcoming CD LA VOCE- as a duet with the talented vocalist Sam Gaetz. Sam's mom, Barb Underhill, was a competitor in Battle of the Blades, and though she got voted off earlier, she will return for the finale on Monday. Not only will she skate with her Blades partner Ron Duguay, but she will reunite with her World Championship pairs skating partner, Paul Martini. You can download this song for free at markmasri.com
I just returned from Los Angeles, where I had the privilege of working with studio recording ace, producer Jochem van der Saag. Jochem has worked with some of my favorite artists such as Celine, Seal and Andrea Bocelli, so it is such a real honor to have him produce my single from La Voce, Hold On.
I spent most of my time in LA in the studio but I did manage to take a walk on the beach, and to catch David Foster's Hit Man concert at the Gibson Amphitheatre. That man has written some incredible hit songs- and I was blown away by the performers including by friends, the Canadian Tenors, the luminous Deborah Cox, and the effortlessly soulful Brian McKnight. The revelation for me was hearing Charice sing live- maybe one of the most powerful singers on the planet- and only 17!
My co-producer on the rest of the La Voce CD, Amy Sky and I caught up with Olivia Newton- John for brunch in Santa Monica. She was in town on her way back from Australia. If you haven’t heard my duet with Olivia on “Every Time It Snows” from my CD Christmas Is - please check it out on iTunes.com!
Speaking of Christmas, I hit the road with Jim Brickman for his Beautiful World Christmas tour, in 21 cities starting Nov 18. See all my tour dates at markmasri.com. I will be blogging and tweeting from the road- so I'll talk to you very soon!
Til then
Love,
Mark
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| Message From Mark... - Wednesday, November 11, 2009
I just returned from Los Angeles, where I had the privilege of working with studio recording ace, producer Jochem van der Saag. Jochem has worked with some of my favorite artists such as Celine, Seal and Andrea Bocelli, so it is such a real honor to have him produce my single from La Voce, Hold On.
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| 'Christmas Is'... - Tuesday, November 10, 2009 
As a masterful songwriter, pianist, vocalist and producer, Mark is a man with the talent and passion to affect people. His music transcends generations with expressive lyrics, lush vocals and elegant delivery. With comparisons to Josh Groban, Andrea Boccelli and Luther Vandross, Masri is carving out a name for himself as a soulful musician with timeless appeal.
2008 and 2009 have been quite a ride for Mark, with honors like a Canadian Music Award nomination, a radio hit of "The Face" by Universal Music artist RyanDan, and now the re-release of an enhanced version of 2008's, Christmas Is... Last year this holiday favorite delighted listeners with many of the best-loved songs of the season like "O Holy Night" and "Ave Maria", along with some epic originals like "Holy Child". Album highlights are the breathtaking duet with Olivia Newton-John, "Every Time It Snows" and the title track, "Christmas Is..." featuring Jim Brickman. Other special guests include Amy Sky and the Canadian Children's Opera Company. "The songs on this record reflect my passion for the music of the season I love most!" says Masri. Green Hill Productions has re-issued the collection in 2009, with a new package containing a bonus DVD featuring interview footage with Mark, and three of his captivating performances from the Jim Brickman BEAUTIFUL WORLD PBS specials, filmed live at Niagara Falls.
Mark is prominently featured on Jim Brickman’s new PBS special, BEAUTIFUL WORLD, airing nationwide beginning in August 2009 and Mark is also thrilled to be joining the Jim Brickman BEAUTIFUL WORLD and Holiday Tour this year.
“Mark's rich and powerful voice transcends traditional boundaries of popular music and takes the audience away to a different time and place. They don't just listen, but are moved, and that is a rare gift.” - Jim Brickman |
| Canadian crooner Mark Masri releases Christmas album - Monday, October 19, 2009 CANADIAN songwriter, pianist, vocalist and producer Mark Masri, who has been a major hitmaker in his homeland, has released a Christmas project, 'Christmas Is.'. The title track features musical compatriot Jim Brickman while another song, "Every Time It Snows", is a duet with Olivia Newton-John.
Click HERE to listen to sample tracks and order your copy TODAY! |
| Mark Live In Concert Saturday October 17th... - Wednesday, October 14, 2009 Toronto East SDA Church is proud to present Mark Masri Live in concert this Saturday, October 17th at 7:30PM.
Location:
Global Kingdom Ministries
1250 Markham Road
Scarborough, ON
M1H 2Y9
Click HERE for ticket information.
Please contact 416.696.5353 for more information.
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| Enjoy Video of Mark Performing... - Thursday, August 27, 2009 |
| Behind the Scenes... - Thursday, August 20, 2009 Enjoy a sneak peek behind the scenes of last nights QVC 'Beautiful World' Special! Below Mark rehearses with Jim Brickman just prior to the show.
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| See Mark on QVC August 19 with Jim Brickman - Wednesday, August 12, 2009
On Wednesday, August 19th make sure you tune in to QVC to watch Mark Masri and Jim Brickman perform live on QVC! This special appearance will feature songs from the Beautiful World CD, which was recently recorded and filmed in Niagara Falls, Canada.
It is a performance you are not going to want to miss!
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| Mark Signs With Green Hill Music! - Monday, July 27, 2009 CANADIAN SINGER AND SONGWRITER SENSATION MARK MASRI SIGNS WITH GREEN HILL
Will Tour With Platinum Instrumentalist JIM BRICKMAN in Fall 2009
And Guest on Brickman’s PBS Special, BEAUTIFUL WORLD
NASHVILLE – As a masterful songwriter, pianist, vocalist and producer, Mark is a man with the talent and passion to affect people. His music transcends generations with expressive lyrics, lush vocals and elegant delivery. With comparisons to Josh Groban, Andrea Bocelli and even Luther Vandross, Masri is carving out a name for himself as a soulful artist with timeless appeal.
Nashville based Green Hill Music recently signed Masri to a three project sales and distribution agreement and will distribute the releases to the non-traditional, gift & specialty markets via their in-house team, and to general, international and digital markets through their traditional distribution partner EMI. “We are so excited to have Mark in the Green Hill family,” said Greg Howard, Vice President/General Manager of Green Hill Music. “He is one of the most exciting and talented new artists to come a long in a very long time. He is a perfect fit for our non-traditional market and our target demographic.”
The last couple of years have been quite a ride for Mark with honors like a Canadian Music Award nomination, major artist covers and now the release of his much anticipated Christmas album, Christmas Is. This soon to be holiday favorite features many of the best-loved songs of the season like “O Holy Night” and “Ave Maria” along with some epic originals like “Holy Child”.
Also featured on the holiday release is the intimate David Foster/Amy Sky production and arrangement of “Every Time It Snows”, a duet with Olivia Newton-John. Newton-John is also a Masri fan stating, “It is very exciting to be part of the debut of such a wonderful talent whose voice draws you in with such a depth of feeling and maturity from the very first note.”
A staple on tour with platinum selling pianist, Jim Brickman, Mark includes a guest performance with Brickman on Christmas Is. "Mark's rich and powerful voice transcends traditional boundaries of popular music and takes the audience away to a different time and place,” commented Brickman. “They don't just listen, but are moved, and that is a rare gift."
Other specials guests include Amy Sky and the Canadian Children’s Opera Company. “The songs on this record best describe my romance with the season I love most!” says Masri.
Masri’s forthcoming album, La Voce, (January, 2010), marks a musical journey and maturation that celebrates the full range of his talents. With songwriting credits on the majority of the tracks, Mark explores the power of human emotions including love, loss and everything in between. The romantic collection of traditional and contemporary Italian and English classics combined with powerful new compositions features Masri’s amazing vocals and tender interpretations.
"I am really excited about this new relationship with Green Hill Music and EMI, and I look forward to some amazing experiences together. Hopefully my music will transcend boundaries and paint a picture of the passion that inspires me."
Masri will appear on PBS stations nationwide beginning in August, 2009 as a featured performer on Beautiful World, the upcoming pledge drive concert special of platinum-selling crossover instrumental songwriter and pianist Jim Brickman. Masri will also join Brickman on the “Beautiful World” and Holiday Tour this Fall. |
| New Live Television Appearances Announced! - Friday, July 24, 2009 Mark will be making a number of LIVE television appearances with Jim Brickman during the month of August!
This is your chance to see the new PBS Special 'Beautiful World'! There will also be great 'Beautiful World Thank You Gifts' available for purchase to help support your local Public Broadcasting Station.
Check the TOUR section for dates and times.
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| Mark To Appear On QVC - Thursday, July 16, 2009 Be sure to mark your calendar to tune into QVC on Wednesday, August 19th at 7PM.
Mark will be appearing with Jim Brickman as Jim premiers his new CD, 'Beautiful World'!
Check local listings for station information. You won't want to miss this special show!
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| Live TV Taping ~ Beautiful World - Friday, June 26, 2009 What an amazing night! The live TV taping of the Beautiful World concert last week in Niagara Falls was an incredible experience. Just being a part of an event like that is something I will never forget.
On the first night, we taped a Christmas show. A Christmas show in June? Yes, it's a bit strange, but we wanted to tape it now so people could enjoy it this Christmas.
The audience was so amped up for a Christmas show in the middle of June, it was amazing. The show featured Jim Brickman on piano, Anne Cochran, Tracey Silverman and Orla Fallon from Celtic Woman fame. We sang a lot of our Christmas favorites, including my hit with Jim from last year, "Christmas Is."
It is so great to be performing with friends like Jim, Anne and Tracey. I'm excited to announce that I'll be touring with them again this holiday season, so look for a tour announcement shortly!
On the second night, we taped Beautiful World, which is a made for TV special. It is built around the concept that music has the amazing power to unite people and create positive energy, to bring people together from different places and cultures, which is the message we wanted to send with this special concert. The show had such a great mix of classic performers who we all know and love. Latin superstar Jon Secada sang an amazing rendition of the song Louis Armstrong made so famous, "What a Wonderful World," American Idol finalist Melinda Doolittle brought the house down with "Amazing Grace," Orla Fallon played an sang classic Irish Hymns and I got a chance to perform some new songs from my upcoming release, La Voce!
Adam Crossley, who I collaborate with quite often here in Toronto, debuted a new song he wrote together with Jim entitled "Beautiful World." It's sure to be a hit.
The evening all came together with the Burt Bacharach classic "What the World Needs Now is Love Sweet Love..." which brought on such amazing power and energy, you could feel it in the room.
Having the chance to perform with so many great artists, along with the backing of a 35-piece orchestra, was so amazing and it really made for a truly awesome experience!
We are in the process of editing the show for release on American Public Television stations this Fall and the DVD will be on sale soon. I'll also be sending you some clips and updating my website with videos as we move through the editing process. Check back often for updates. |
| New Album, La Voce, Coming This January! - Friday, June 26, 2009 I am so thrilled to announce that I'm working on a totally new album called La Voce. The concept for this album came from the strong positive reaction I felt while singing in the classic Italian operatic style over the past year. The combination of the powerful Italian ballads and rich romantic tone seemed to really connect with the audiences. We are working with Green Hill Music and EMI distribution, out of Nashville, on the production of the album, which will be available in January 2010. While that sounds like a long way off, I'm in the process of recording the songs now, and the album will be available before you know it! I'll be sending you some sample tracks in the coming months so you can get a taste of it. Check my Official Website regularly for updates on 'La Voce'!
I feel truly blessed that such great things are happening, and thank you, my fans, who have supported me so strongly.
The best is yet to come!
Mark |
| Beautiful World Flyaway Contest Winner Announced! - Tuesday, June 02, 2009 Congratulations to Patricia Shaw from Roanoke, VA who won round trip airfare, two tickets to the filming of the Beautiful World special concert event and hotel accommodations for 2 nights in Niagara Falls, Canada!
The Beautiful World concert event with Jim Brickman is coming soon and tickets are running out! June 17th marks the beginning of the two day taping of the event for a PBS TV special as well as a later release of the Beautiful World concert DVD.
To join Mark Masri, Jim Brickman and many others on June 17th and 18th for this wonderful, once-in-a-lifetime concert experience, be sure to get your tickets now!
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| Mark Joins Jim Brickman in South Carolina May 14th and May 15th! - Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Join Mark as he appears with multi-platinum recording artist Jim Brickman!
Mark will be performing May 14th at 7:30PM at the Peace Center For Performing Arts in Greeville, SC.
Two shows will be offered on May 15th at the Newberry Opera House in Newberry, SC. Showtimes are 3PM and 8PM.
Check the tour section of the site for ticket information. |
| Special June Concert Event in Niagara Falls - Monday, April 20, 2009
I'm really excited to announce a special concert event in Niagara Falls Canada.
Beautiful World is Concert event about music bridging borders and cultural divides. This landmark special is a lush and intimate show, shot in High Definition at the Fallsview Plaza Hotel, just minutes from the Peace Bridge (which was partially the inspiration for the special) between the U.S. and Canada at Niagara Falls. Beautiful World will celebrate how music connects us and brings us all together.
This special taping with many friends will be aired on PBS stations. A theme of friendship, healing and bridging cultures; a collection of songs that marry gorgeous piano music with crossover classical. This is approachable, irresistible music with connections to classical (á la Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman), Celtic and Latin music.
I will be singing with friends Jim Brickman, Anne Cochran and Tracey Silverman on Wednesday, June 17 with a holiday theme and on Thursday, we will be joined by special guests Jon Secada, Orla Fallon and American Idol finalist, Melinda Dootlittle.
Since we will be taping for TV, this will be a chance to see a live television concert production. I hope to see you there.
Click here for more details and ticket information.
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| Mark Masri Now On iTunes! - Thursday, March 12, 2009 Mark Masri's hit song 'See My Face' is now available on iTunes!
Visit iTunes to purchase 'See My Face' today! read more ... |
| Mark Masri's Gospel CD is Back - Monday, February 23, 2009
It's no mystery that Mark has been very busy lately between releasing his two CDs, Christmas Is and See My Face, and touring the country with Jim Brickman. So, how did he come out with another CD? Well, quite simply, he recorded this soulful gospel album in 2000, and is now making it available online! On his self-titled album, Mark delivers 11 solid soul-stirring tracks; a must have for all fans of inspirational music. Visit Mark's online store now to listen to a preview of the album, and buy it for $12.98, and for all the Canadian fans, just click on the flag above the album photo.
Mark Masri includes the tracks:
1. Dwell In The House
2. Take My Hand
3. Always
4. If I Know You
5. I Miss My Time With You
6. Close Your Eyes
7. The Prayer
8. One Good Reason
9. When You Praise
10. You Are All I Need
11. (Bonus Track). Take My Hand
(Duet with Janna Long of Avalon) |
| Update From Mark... - Monday, February 09, 2009 Hey everybody...
Sorry it's been awhile since my last update. So many things are going on I can't keep them straight. First off, I'm excited to let you all know that my first single, "I Can't Make You Love Me" released to smooth jazz radio this month just in time for Valentine's Day. The song is off of my new release, SEE MY FACE which is available on my website.
Oh, and to all my Canadian fans, now your orders will be processed through our Canadian distributor, Maple Music, so just follow the links. For those of you who have asked about iTunes, we'll be making an announcement about availability in the next few weeks, so keep checking. I must say how excited I am about SEE MY FACE - it has been a long time coming and is probably some of my most vulnerable and passionate work to date. Please take a second to listen and be sure to get your copy.
As for current projects - I'm writing for major artists(which will remain nameless until a later date), writing and appearing on a new reality show called Big Voice which will air on W in Canada and Lifetime in the US this Fall. Very cool! Oh, and for all of you that love the latin languages, I've started recording my first album featuring beautiful songs in some of my favorite languages like Italian, Spanish and of course, French. It's slated for release sometime late Spring or early Summer '09. And, if all of this is not enough I'm still making guest appearances with Jim Brickman at shows across America. I'll be in Tucson, Phoenix, Chicago, New York, Boston and Los Angeles to name a few.
I think that's all for now!
Have a great Valentine's Day. |
| Masri WoW's Boston Audiences! - Monday, December 29, 2008 "The multitalented Canadian singer-songwriter sensation Masri wowed the Boston audience as he performed solo and in duet with Cochran. With the velvety vocals reminiscent of Luther Vandross, Masri garner an instant fan-base. In a comical question and answer portion of the evening, an audience member asked if he could sing in French. He answered in the negative, but proceeded to belt out an a cappella rendition of something in Italian, his voice booming throughout the theater, melting the hearts of female audience members like chocolate in the palm of warm hands.
Audience members ranged from early high school-aged students to the most mature of individuals. They came as couples and as families and friends. The performance on Saturday night was this writer’s introduction to each of those who performed. That afternoon I reluctantly agreed to attend the performance with a friend who said that her other ticket holder had come down with a cold. I wouldn’t wish ill health on anyone, but I’m glad to have filled in, because I can honestly say, I am a new fan of all who performed that night."
Donna O’Neil is the editor of the Wakefield (Mass.) Observer. Contact her at wakefield@cnc.com. |
| Christmas Is - Debuts as #4 on R&R Chart! - Monday, December 22, 2008 The single Christmas Is debuts at #4 on the Radio and Records chart. This new single is what Christmas is all about and we're thrilled its being played so well on Radio.
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| Mark Masri Heard on "So You Think You Can Dance" - Friday, November 28, 2008 The dancers couldn't have chosen a better song for their routine "The Face". Mark's "See My Face" is the perfect soundtrack for this dance number.
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| Mark Masri's New Release - Christmas Is - Now Available! - Monday, November 24, 2008 Mark Masri's New Release - Christmas Is - Now Available!
Featuring Olivia Newton-John, Jim Brickman and Amy Sky Mark Masri, a Juno-nominated recording artist, releases his first Christmas album today featuring industry icons Olivia Newton-John, Jim Brickman and singer/songwriter Amy Sky. The album is available at The album is available online at Mark's store.
As a well-respected singer, songwriter and producer, Masri has roots that stem from the gospel community. In 2000, he released his first self-titled album, which garnered him a Juno nomination for "Best Gospel Record".
According to Masri, "Creating this album has really been a gift. I've had the opportunity to work with superstar artists such as Olivia Newton-John who sings with me on "Every Time it Snows", and Jim Brickman who performs with me on the title track, "Christmas Is". There are also Christmas classics such as "Ave Maria" and "Oh Holy Night" to kindle the spirit of timeless tradition."
Masri adds, "My inspiration for this album was easy. More and more each year I'm reminded how magical Christmas truly is. Just imagine the beauty of that Star that lit up the night 2000 years ago. For me, the songs on this record embody all the feelings surrounding the season; joy; peace, awesome-wonder, child-like faith, and yes, sometimes even pain. The music on Christmas Is definitely best describes my romance with the holidays." |
| Coming Soon – Christmas Is - Wednesday, November 05, 2008 Here is a bit of a sneak peak at my new release coming soon! Visit www.markmasri.com/freesong for a free sample from the album just for you!
Creating this album has really been a gift. I’ve the chance to work with superstar artists such as Olivia-Newton John who sings with me on Every Time it Snows. The title track, Christmas Is performed with Jim Brickman is a new holiday favorite I’m sure you will enjoy. There are also familiar Christmas classics such as Ave Maria and Oh Holy Night to give you comfort.
My inspiration for this album was easy. More and more each year, I realize how magical Christmas truly is. Whether it is in the eyes of my child or in the glow of a candle. I’m reminded of a light that shown in the darkness 2000 years ago. It’s a time of celebrating family and friends. And the ultimate gift ever given to mankind…the Christ Child.
For me, the songs on this record embody all the feelings surrounding the holidays, joy; peace; awesome-wonder, child-like faith, and event painful loss. Music definitely best describes my romance with the season. I can’t wait for you to hear it.
Blessings, Mark |
| Christmas in October - Wednesday, October 15, 2008 Ever hear of Christmas in July? Well how about Christmas in October? That’s right! Mark’s new album, “Christmas Is” has a scheduled release date of November 4th, but he wants to give you a little taste of Christmas in October. Visit www.markmasri.com/freesong, enter your name and you can download “Oh Holy Night”, done in collaboration with Jim Brickman, FREE to your iPod or other device!
Since we’ve got you in the Christmas Spirit, here are the rest of the songs you’ll be able to enjoy with the purchase of Mark’s new “Christmas Is” CD!
- Ave Maria
- O Holy Night
- Christmas Is – featuring Jim Brickman
- Every Time It Snows – featuring Olivia Newton John
- Panis Angelicus
- Holy Child
- A Christmas Time With You
- Greatest Gift Of All (Your Love) – featuring Jim Brickman and Amy Sky
- Silent Night
- Lullaby, My Love
Don’t delay, visit www.markmasri.com/freesong to download “Christmas Is” today! |
| Mark's First Christmas Album - Wednesday, September 24, 2008 Mark is recording his first Christmas record featuring some of his favorite traditional Christmas carols and some amazing new originals. Guest artists include Olivia Newton John, Jim Brickman , Amy Sky and the Canadian Children’s Opera Chorus. |
| New Radio Release - Tuesday, September 23, 2008 One of the songs Mark wrote and produced for the “Celine Dion” biographical movie released to radio this week in promotion of the film. Check local listings for times and dates. The song is called “This Time” - be sure to call and request it. |
| Covenant Award Nomination - Monday, September 22, 2008 One of Mark’s songs receives a Covenant Award nomination(Canada’s Dove Awards sponsored by the GMA in Canada) for “Praise and Worship Song of the Year”. Awards ceremony to held in Calgary, AB on October 24, 2008. |
| Mark On The Jim Brickman Tour - Friday, September 19, 2008 Mark is really excited to be joining the Jim Brickman Holiday Homecoming Tour starting November 28, 2008 in Thousand Oaks, CA. |
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