Biography

(Thanks to www.mario2u.com)

One cannot deny their destiny, regardless of what path they take. Oftentimes, the realization of one’s destiny is a time consuming, difficult quest, even when destined for greatness. 18 year old Mario is one of the few that recognized their gifts very early on as he commenced his journey to success and greatness as a toddler.

Born in Baltimore, MD and now residing in New Jersey, Mario has wanted to sing since he was 4 years old. He honed his gifts singing along with a karaoke machine and plunking out melodies on the piano his mother bought him. By the time he was in elementary school Mario was developing harmonies, constructing melodies and finding inspiration in a range of artists including Stevie Wonder, Brian McKnight, Usher and Joe.

As a young teen, Mario was a regular contestant in talent shows. These frequent competitions helped greatly in turning his boyhood dreams and career aspirations into reality. Mario signed to 3rd Street/ J Records and immediately began work on his infectious debut; one that showcased label mate Alicia Keys, who declared Mario’s voice is “one of the most beautiful I’ve ever heard”.

Mario’s first single “Just a Friend 2002”, off his debut and self-titled album, shot up the charts and the video featuring Biz Markie was a fixture on BET and MTV rotations. The positive attention and response from critics, fans and peers alike, was pleasantly surprising to Mario. All listeners were quick to praise his superlative singing and appeal. “I didn’t know people would accept it. God was on my side and I thank him every day for the blessing”. The newfound exposure lead to greater opportunities to showcase his talent to the world. Soon after his debut, Mario hit the road as the opening act for Bow-Wow and followed by being part of the Scream 3 Tour, which also boasted B2K, Nick Cannon and Marques Houston. “Being on tour taught me how to handle the stage on my own and now I’m ready to do it again. I’m excited.”

Mario’s sophomore CD is entitled Turning Point and is more than just an R&B album as it is also the follow-up to one of 2002’s biggest surprises. Mario was just 15 years old when “Just a Friend 2002” was released but seems confident in how his age and personal growth have affected his work. When asked if he’s concerned with making the segue from boyhood to manhood, Mario was forthright. “Any changes that have taken place between that album and this one have all been natural. I didn’t have anybody saying to me, this is what you’re going to do. This is what your image is going to be now. It wasn’t made up. What everybody is hearing right now is me. It’s all natural.”