Karl Wolf is a Lebanese/Canadian R’n’B singer who describes himself as following in the footsteps of Akon. He grew up in Dubai before moving to Canada to build a career as a popular Arabic singer, and more recently as a manager for his own record label, Lone Wolf Management. He has nabbed numerous awards such as Best Arabia Act at the MTV Europe Music Awards in 2008. Now he’s back in Dubai and recently released new album Ghetto Love featuring Three 6 Mafia and is getting ready to put out a new single DJ Gonna Save Us in May. Read on to find out more!
What can you tell us about your new album?
I’m sticking to my dance hall vibe on this record, however this time around I’m trying to mess around with some house, some uptempo stuff 'cos I’ve noticed that people are loving that in the clubs.
You once said you’re a lover not a fighter, what do you mean by that?
The reason I said that was because at the time all my peers in music were doing hip hop and R’n’B and everyone was trying to be so unemotional about music.
You’ve toured with stars like Akon, Flo Rida and T Pain. Who’s your fave celeb to hang out with?
Akon hands-down. He’s a good guy and he reminds me of myself because he came from Lebanon and went to North America. He’s also nice to people. I respect him a lot. He’s built an empire, he’s managing artists, he’s got clothing lines… I’m basically following in his footsteps.
What’s it like being back in good old Dubai?
It feels great! I’ve been alone since I was 16, so it’s nice to come back to a home-cooked meal and mum’s love. It’s tough on the road. When we come back home to Toronto or Montreal, all the guys are excited to go back to their families, and for me I’m like “can I come with you guys?”; I don’t want to go home.
So, you’re single?
Yes. I always get romantic in Dubai for some reason. It’s the weather.
What’s next for you?
I’ve started managing five new artists under my management company. One of the artists that stands out the most is Little Jay-Z, a 12-year-old rapper. He stutters when he speaks but he’s fluent when he raps – he’s kind of a phenomenon.
INFO: Karl’s album Ghetto Love is available at Virgin Megastores across the UAE. For more information visit www.karlwolf.com.
