 It's a rag to riches story really. Child has no money, child grows up, child becomes a mega superstar with a big white mansion and a whole lot of bucks! It's a story, unlike any other which most artists choose to associate themselves with when active in the music scene. Massari however, plays another part to that story.
The young Canadian is one of the top breakthrough artists of the year with his record breaking album selling nationwide, then hitting ‘Gold' straight afterwards. At the break-even point of Massari's career, he's already worked with the likes of Beenie man, is living the American dream and is defiantly one artist to watch out for.
Having already missed his first call, I await eagerly next to the phone to catch the all important artist for his spare time. As the phone starts to ring, I pick it up nervously and am greeted by a soft Canadian voice. "Hey, how ya doing?" it says to me. Here's what he had to say...
What have you been up to lately?
Lately, I've been trying to get some work done and have also featured with my labelmate Belly on his new album called 'The Revolution'. I've been on tour for the last year and a half in Australia, Dubai and Sweden and have also done a few shows in the US and Canada. I've had four videos come out ‘rush the floor' being the most recent which features Belly, my favourite rapper.
How did you come up with the name Massari and how does it reflect to your personality?
Massari means money in Arabic. I wanted the name to be something fresh and different to what fans are usually used to and wanted to make a difference in the scene. Although money is a complex subject, I'm here to change the definition of the word. I want people to realise the potential of love which exists all around us and that one day when I myself will be raising kids, would like to raise them in a place where they can be free and happy. I want to make the world less scary than it already is by promoting the love I receive everyday from my fans.
I hear you're coming over to the UK, what are your ambitions and do you have any future plans to dominate the world?
I feel that the UK is similar to Canada in some aspects as the fans are very friendly, welcoming and have the same understanding of music as I do. The Turkish community in particular showed much support which I'm truly grateful for. I couldn't do it without them and am hoping to make my appearance soon. I can't wait to get out there in the UK where hopefully both you and I will be meeting face to face.
Yeah! We have a lot to talk about! How has female attention changed after the release of your first album?
I've always been good with the ladies. We have always been on that same level as I feel we have a special connection. I'm honoured to have such a big fan base and want all my fans to know that I couldn't do it without their support. I'm the kind of guy who wants the ladies to know that there are men out there who have respect for them. I've never had a sister, so I've learnt to respect women, which is the way my mother raised me. I treat every lady how I'd treat my sister.
Is their a Massari t-shirt available?
Yeah! There is plenty of merchandise available at http://www.massarionline.com/
Could you give us some info on the new album?
It will be a world wide album. I'm putting a lot of heart and soul into it including my experiences and how much I have grown as a person as well as an artist. It's all up in the air. I'm hoping to work with Shakira and Ciara for this one as they would certainly complement my sounds.
I heard the track with Beenie Man, any future collaborations coming up and with whom?
Yeah! Defiantly! I'm thinking of working with Shakira which I think would be a great collaboration due to the mixture of middle-eastern sounds. I'm also in talks with Ciara and Kanye West and am really hoping to work with the two artists in general. They will really complement my sound. Sometimes I start the songs off from scratch with these artists and build up a relationship with them along the way. It's a great cycle. I'm also hoping to work with Haifa Wehpe, a Lebanese female artist.
How do you feel about the war in Lebanon?
It's heart breaking! There are no other words to describe it. I'm basically watching my home being destroyed on T.V. It's really not a nice thing to see people, especially women and children, running away from bombs and being crammed into shelters. The only war I think we should fight is the war against aids and other diseases. We need to stick together and I wish the best of luck for all those caught in the crossfire.
What are your views on the music industry at the moment and what recommendations would you make in order to strengthen it?
I love the way things are at the moment. There are so many youngsters out there who are coming out and brining music to an entirely new level. I also cannot forget the people who have been a peddle stool for me in this music game, especially the likes of Michael Jackson and other legends. They are pioneers and have helped me become the man I am today. I love the new levels music is reaching today and I'm very optimistic about it all.
How does it feel being the biggest selling Canadian R&B artist of 2005?
You know what? I have nobody but my fans to thank for that. My mother, two brothers and father have been very supportive throughout and I couldn't have done it without their help. I'm the luckiest man in the world and feel that the people have nurtured me from a new born baby and have provided me with all the tools I need to make it and survive. My fans are my biggest support.
Is their anything about Massari we should know?
I'm a big sucker for romance!
Anyone you'd like to big up?
All my fans in the UK and of course yourself for finding me. It's been great talking with you and I hope to meet up with you soon once I'm over in the UK.
http://www.massarionline.com
www.myspace.com/massarionline
Words by: Bertan Budak - www.myspace.com/stprodukshunz
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marrryyyy x-masssss to you habibi massariiiii 
