Joseph DeMasi is an award-winning singer, songwriter, recording artist and entertainer who has been performing for more than a quarter-century. He will perform Sunday at 3 p.m. in the Sibyl Center in Stanley.
DeMasi got his start in the folk clubs and coffeehouses in his hometown of New York City. He shared the stage with such folk music greats as Harry and Tom Chapin, Christine Lavin and Oscar Brand.
The 1980s found DeMasi in one of New York's hottest party bands. However, his love for acoustic music took him frequently to Nashville where he wrote, recorded and produced with some of Nashville's top musicians.
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Submitted Photo - - New York City native Joseph DeMasi, currently of Valley City, will perform Sunday in the Sibyl Center in Stanley.
In 1992 he joined forces with twin brother and long-time collaborator, John, along with actor Chris Burke. The trio formed a children's music group and signed a record deal with BMG/Kidz. They have recorded four albums and have received many awards for their music, including a Parents' Choice Gold Seal of Excellence.
The group tours extensively throughout the country and has appeared on Good Morning America and Entertainment Tonight. Joseph DeMasi also provides regular musical commentary on Prairie Public Radio's "Hear It Now" program.
Now living in Valley City for more than a decade, he is often asked what an Italian-American from New York is doing here in the great plains of the Dakotas.
"I like to say it's because I'm in the witness protection program," he said, smiling. "But really it's because I fell in love and married a great Dakota girl!"
Admission to Sunday's concert is by freewill contribution, with a suggested donation of $5 at the door. For more information, call 628-3339 or visit (www.sibylcenter.org).