Issa Man
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Issa's mixed style of R&b and Neo-Soul is perhaps a compliment to his performances. His vocal range is unique in the sense that he virtually transforms his soft soprano into a raspy baritone that is reminiscent of the late Luther Vandross. The draw-back is that his vocal inflections are too "Luther" in contrast for some.
"I never knew I had that voice until Luther came along", he said. "Its my voice, my gift". Issa makes a pretty compelling argument. " When you think about the artist who emerged during the Sam Cook
period like Ernie Isley of the Isley Brother's, Bobby Womack, or Donny Hathaway to name a few, you can't tell me that they didn't vibe off of each other, their styles changed over time".
Issa stay's true to his roots coming from old-school influences. His maturity is profound and emotionally heart-felt. He writes about human passions, life experiences, and spiritual devotion keeping it real and contemporary. He has a message that appeals to everyone, young and mature.
"I never knew I had that voice until Luther came along", he said. "Its my voice, my gift". Issa makes a pretty compelling argument. " When you think about the artist who emerged during the Sam Cook
period like Ernie Isley of the Isley Brother's, Bobby Womack, or Donny Hathaway to name a few, you can't tell me that they didn't vibe off of each other, their styles changed over time".
Issa stay's true to his roots coming from old-school influences. His maturity is profound and emotionally heart-felt. He writes about human passions, life experiences, and spiritual devotion keeping it real and contemporary. He has a message that appeals to everyone, young and mature.
Why this name?
I ues may first name because it represents me. The name is very popular in Africa and the Middle East.
It is the name in which the so called third-world countries use to identify Jesus. Therefore, with a name like mine you know I have to keep it real.
It is the name in which the so called third-world countries use to identify Jesus. Therefore, with a name like mine you know I have to keep it real.
Do you play live?
I haven't performed live yet. This is a hobby, a release from everyday life stresses. The special moments for me are when I get inspired. I know there is a higher power at work when the inspiration kicks in; I mean,
who else can bring nothing into something?
who else can bring nothing into something?
How, do you think, does the internet (or mp3) change the music industry?
Internet music forums are a wonderful extension for consumers and artist alike. Still, there are market monopolizers that git in the way, yet the internet is a resource that can even the playing field for good talent
that may otherwise never get heard or discovered.
that may otherwise never get heard or discovered.
Would you sign a record contract with a major label?
I don't really think I would sign a contract for any record label. I'm over the idea of becoming a music super star. I just want to minister.
Your influences?
I love to perform with a neo-soul vibe. There's something about how major & minor chords compliment each other; minors chords dominate rhythmically between the beat and you get a groove on. I like artist like Musiq SoulChild, Angie Stone, Jill scott, India Arie, and Mos Def. I have to add that I personally love them as real people first. Of course Luther, "Forever for always, for love". Tupac is my alter ego for keeping it real, " I hope heaven has a Ghetto".
Equipment used:
I use imac to run Pro Tools and M Box 2, simple and basic.
Anything else...?
I use my gift to put something in the hearts of people, to inspire and give hope. I grew up on hope jams and love songs too. I've been a struggler. I'm blessed now, but be being world worry is what keeps me solid. You don't have to be licentious or erroitistic with art expressions; its not the end of all, just a means.
Photos
Issa