After a recent stint at WAA (Western Arts Alliance) in Long Beach, California, I had the pleasure of listening to one of the most beautiful male voices I have ever heard live.  Mark Masri performed Wednesday, September 1, at the Beacon Ballroom at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Long Beach.  I suppose I should give a little history.  WAA is a nonprofit sector that supports venue presenters for the performing arts centers.   Many presenters come to this annual conference to find their acts to book for the following calendar year.   I’m sure Masri will have many bookings based upon his phenomenal performance that evening.

Mark Masri is a Canadian singer who has appealed to American audiences within the last couple of years.  He reminds me of Bocelli and has a voice like butter.  I watched and listened in awe and was very unhappy when his too short set ended.  As he sang his song selection of popular covers, I was transported to some otherworldly place.   As a singer myself, I left that performance feeling I had for once in a very long time been properly entertained.  It’s true we fellow performers can be harsh to others doing the same thing.  But this was one of those times when I was literally awe struck.

Mark Masri has been performing since he was five years old.  He wrote music for film, television, and for other singers.  He is also a pianist and producer.  Masri is a soulful tenor who sings in Italian, Spanish, English, French, Hebrew, and Arabic on his new release.  His virtuosity is not only multilingual, but he also shares a message of tolerance and acceptance through his music.  As I listen to his album, Mark Masri La Voce, I am moved beyond words by the emotion and sincerity in his voice.  Every track on his album is polished with flawless vocals and production.  Masri has a very controlled voice, knowing when to hold back—with impeccable timing for the long “crooner” notes.  (Please excuse my sophomoric comparison, but for lack of a better word, he does melt with his voice.)

I give this singer and his new CD Mark Masri La Voce 5 stars.  I recommend playing it during a romantic evening, or just relaxing at home in front of the fire.  And don’t forget the port.  I will be loading his tunes into my iPod for those long commutes or for a series of lullabies during bedtime.   What’s not to love about this dynamic talent!  I look forward to hearing more from Mark Masri . . . he is without a doubt one to watch!

Visit www.markmasri.com for concert dates and to purchase the CD.