Interview: Masicka talks debut album, ‘438’
Dancehall artist Masicka hosted a listening party for his upcoming LP, 438, on Nov. 16 in New York City. The intimate event allowed select guests to preview the project, which will drop on Dec. 3 across digital outlets. While Masicka has released a number of singles and mixtapes over the years, 438 is actually his debut album. Speaking to Life Entertainment News at the event, the Jamaica native described why the timing is right. “I’m feeling at the right place right now with everything and where we’re going, so we decided to move it to the fans and just put out a body of work,” Masicka said. “We really needed a body of work which could just represent my career.”
Attendees at the Quad Studios listening event grooved through the 16-track album, which provides something for everyone. “The first half of the album is a more deep, motivational side of the album,” Masicka explained, “and then we have a loving side right there for the ladies, and then you have a couple of party tracks. The ladies, them can listen to it too… the thugs, them can listen it too. You know what I mean? All people can listen to it; that was the aim. Everything is just put together perfectly so people can just accept it.”
The 27-year-old is known for his epic collaborations, and 438 is no exception. Features on the album include Popcaan, Sean Paul, Stefflon Don, and Dexta Daps– “real artists” according to Masicka. “Them love the music and them love the crowd, likewise me,” he said. “Their energy… that’s kind of different. It just gives a diversity so everybody can have a favorite song on the album.”
While he has performed around the world, Masicka expressed humility when asked for a moment that was particularly awe-inspiring for him. “I think every moment performing and every moment I get to live out my dream doing music, so I just feel like I’m always [living in the moment],” he shared.
The first single from 438, “Love Story,” has amassed over 1.6 million views on YouTube, and Masicka promises more visuals to come shortly after the album drops. Album release parties are also planned in Tampa, Miami, and Hartford, Conn. on Dec. 3, 4, and 5, respectively. For updates and more information, follow Masicka on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter at @MasickaMusic. Fans can also pre-order 438 now on Apple Music.
