Mario (American singer)

{{short description|American R&B singer (born 1986)}} {{Use American English|date=August 2025}} {{Use mdy dates|date=August 2025}} {{Infobox musical artist | name = Mario | image = File:Mario in 2024.png | caption = Mario in December 2024 | birth_name = Mario Dewar Barrett | birth_date = {{Birth date and age|mf=yes|1986|8|27}} | birth_place = Baltimore, Maryland, U.S. | years_active = 2001–present | occupations = {{flatlist| * Singer * songwriter * dancer * actor }} | discography = Mario discography | background = solo_singer | genre = {{hlist|R&B<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/artist/mario-mn0000274637|title = Mario Songs, Albums, Reviews, Bio & More|website = AllMusic}}</ref>}} | label = {{hlist|New Citizen|RCA|J|3rd Street}} | past_member_of = {{flatlist| * Knightwritaz }} | website = {{URL|marioworldwide.com}} }}

'''Mario Dewar Barrett''' (born August 27, 1986),<ref>{{cite book | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=cgwKAQAAMAAJ&q=mario+singer+1986 | title=The Encyclopedia of Popular Music: Kollington - Morphine | isbn=978-0-19-531373-4 | last1=Larkin | first1=Colin | year=2006 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Southern|first=Nathan|title=Mario – Overview|work=AllMovie|url=http://www.allmovie.com/artist/mario-p476803|access-date=July 11, 2012|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120627052654/http://www.allmovie.com/artist/mario-p476803|archive-date=June 27, 2012}}</ref> known mononymously as '''Mario''', is an American R&B singer, songwriter and dancer. Born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, he signed a record deal with J Records—at the age of 14—to release his self-titled debut studio album (2002). Its lead single, "Just a Friend 2002", peaked within the ''Billboard'' Hot 100's top five, while the album peaked at number nine on the ''Billboard'' 200. His second album, ''Turning Point'' (2004), was supported by the ''Billboard'' Hot 100-number one single "Let Me Love You," which was nominated for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance at the 48th Annual Grammy Awards, won two ''Billboard'' Music Awards, and yielded his furthest commercial success.

His third studio album, ''Go'' (2007), saw mild success with its singles "How Do I Breathe" and "Crying Out for Me". His fourth album, ''D.N.A.'' (2009), matched his self-titled debut on the ''Billboard'' 200, while its lead single, "Break Up" (featuring Gucci Mane and Sean Garrett), peaked within the top 20 of the ''Billboard'' Hot 100 and received platinum certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). In the following year, Barrett was ranked No. 98 by ''Billboard'' on their "Artist of the Decade" list.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Artists of the Decade Music Chart|magazine=Billboard|url=http://www.billboard.com/#/charts-decade-end/artists-of-the-decade?year=2009&begin=91&order=position|access-date=December 19, 2009|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121212005511/http://www.billboard.com/#/charts-decade-end/artists-of-the-decade?year=2009&begin=91&order=position|archive-date=December 12, 2012}}</ref> His fifth album, ''Dancing Shadows'' (2018), saw further lyrical introspection and creative control than previous commercially-oriented projects, serving as his first independent release.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-02-14|title=Mario Talks 2020 Version Of "Let Me Love You", Working With Scott Storch & Reflecting On Discography (Exclusive Interview) - YouKnowIGotSoul.com|url=https://youknowigotsoul.com/mario-interview-2020-version-of-let-me-love-you-working-with-scott-storch-reflecting-on-discography|access-date=2021-04-25|website=YouKnowIGotSoul.com {{!}} New R&B Music, Songs, Podcast, Interviews|language=en-US}}</ref><ref name="Dancing Shadows">{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gO-jqTStOaE |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211212/gO-jqTStOaE| archive-date=2021-12-12 |url-status=live|title=Mario: I would never make a second Let Me Love You|last=FunX Gemist|date=June 30, 2018|access-date=July 11, 2018|via=YouTube}}{{cbignore}}</ref>

Aside from his musical career, he appeared in several television shows and films such as ''Step Up'' (2006) of the Step Up franchise, ''Freedom Writers'' (2007), season 6 of ''Dancing with the Stars'' and ''Empire'' (2018–2020). In 2019, Mario starred in the live television production of the Primetime Emmy nominated musical ''Rent''. In 2024, he was runner-up on season 12 of ''The Masked Singer''.

==Early life and education== Mario Dewar Barrett was born on August 27, 1986, in Baltimore, Maryland, to his mother Shawntia Hardaway and father Derryl Barrett Sr., a singer in a gospel group called Reformation. He also has a half-brother Derryl "D.J." Barrett Jr., who is a professional drummer.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.baltimoremagazine.com/2011/1/1/mario-sings-the-blues|title=Mario Sings the Blues|date=January 1, 2011|website=Baltimore magazine|access-date=September 17, 2019}}</ref> He grew up in west Baltimore and other working-class neighborhoods in Baltimore County, Maryland.<ref name="Mario2">{{cite news| last =Ollison| first =Rashod D.| title =A maturing Mario| work =The Baltimore Sun| date =December 27, 2006| url =http://www.baltimoresun.com/features/bal-to.mario27dec27,0,3126202.story?coll=bal-features-headlines| archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20230407085549/https://www.baltimoresun.com/features/bal-to.mario27dec27,0,3126202.story?coll=bal-features-headlines| url-status =dead| archive-date =April 7, 2023| access-date =December 27, 2006}}</ref> He lived with his grandmother, who raised him while his single mother struggled with drug addiction.<ref name="Mario2" /> At the age of four, Mario proclaimed that he wanted to become a singer. In support of his dream, his mother bought him a karaoke machine. Mario joined a musical group in Milford Mill Academy with the oldest son of comedian Mo'Nique and best friend Jaye Brebnor and also his younger god sister Chea Tyler. Barrett learned to play the piano and used that skill as the basis for his melodies and songs. He was discovered at age eleven and signed by producer Troy Patterson, after singing "I'll Make Love to You" at a Coppin State College talent show.<ref name="Mario2"/> Mario attended Milford Mill Academy up until the tenth grade where he was inspired by his music teacher, during his early teen years, and was offered a record deal at the age of fourteen, signing with Clive Davis' J Records.<ref name="Mario2" /> His musical influences include Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Sam Cooke, Nat King Cole, Brian McKnight, Boyz II Men, Michael Jackson,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://theboombox.com/mario-pays-his-respects-to-michael-jackson/|title=Mario Pays His Respects to Michael Jackson|website=Theboombox.com|date=June 26, 2009 |access-date=July 8, 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150704213503/http://theboombox.com/mario-pays-his-respects-to-michael-jackson/|archive-date=July 4, 2015}}</ref> Usher, and Joe. His first introduction to the music industry was the ''Dr. Dolittle 2'' movie soundtrack in 2001. He sang a cover of the Stevie Wonder song "You and I" at Clive's Grammy party in 2002, and began recording an album.

==Music career== {{BLP sources section|date=August 2025}} ===2001–2003: ''Mario''=== {{Main|Mario (album)}} In July 2001, Mario began recording his major-label debut album, titled ''Mario'', which was nearly a year before the official release in March 2002. The album's lead single "Just a Friend 2002", which was a cover of Biz Markie's song, was a success, peaking at number four on the ''Billboard'' Hot 100. Follow-up singles were "Braid My Hair" and "C'mon". He was the opening act on the ''Scream Tour 3'', which featured headliners such as B2K, Marques Houston, Nick Cannon, Jhené Aiko and AJA. As of 2006, his debut album has sold over 700,000 copies.<ref name="Mario2" /> During this period, he became a draw in the teen market.<ref name="Mario2" />

===2004–2006: ''Turning Point''=== {{Main|Turning Point (Mario album)}} After his debut album was released, Mario wanted to record an album that was more mature. He enlisted a number of well-known producers to help him, such as Scott Storch and Lil' Jon. He released his second album, ''Turning Point'' on December 7, 2004. The album was more successful than his first, mainly because of the hit single "Let Me Love You". The single, described by reviewers as "melodic and sweetly lilting, reminiscent of Michael Jackson's vintage romantic ballads"<ref name="Mario2" /> was successful, peaking at number one on the ''Billboard'' Hot 100 for nine consecutive weeks. The single was written by Ne-Yo.<ref name="Mario2" /> Other follow-up singles include "How Could You" co-written by J. Valentine, with a cameo appearance in the video by rapper Cassidy; "Here I Go Again" (whose video starred model/singer Cassie) and "Boom" featuring Juvenile. To date, ''Turning Point'' is certified platinum and the lead single double-platinum.

In February 2006, Mario filed a lawsuit against his former manager, Troy Patterson, alleging that Patterson had paid him $50,000 for the sale of more than 3 million records, which was later found to be false accusations. Mario was later sued by Patterson and lost. Mario's new manager is J. Erving, and he was chosen by Mario.<ref>{{cite news| last=Gail| first=Mitchell| title=R&B artist Mario gets personal on 3rd album| url=https://www.reuters.com/article/musicNews/idUSN1828950620070619| work=Reuters| date=June 18, 2007| url-status=live| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090908013651/http://www.reuters.com/article/musicNews/idUSN1828950620070619| archive-date=September 8, 2009}}</ref>

===2007–2008: ''Go''=== {{main|Go (Mario album)}} Mario's third album ''Go'' is dedicated to his mom Shawntia Hardaway and was released in South Africa under Gallo Records on October 9, 2007, in the U.S. on December 11, 2007. The album includes collaborations with Jermaine Dupri, Ne-Yo, Janice Robinson, Scott Storch, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Timbaland and Bryan-Michael Cox. Mario had more creative control on ''Go'' than on his previous two albums.<ref name="Mario2" /> The first single from the album was "How Do I Breathe" which was released in May. The second single was "Crying Out for Me" after a poll on his website.<ref name="MTV News">{{cite news| last =Rodriguez| first =Jayson| title =Mario Gets Back To Making Music With Akon, Timbaland, Neptunes| publisher =MTV| url =http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1557037/20070412/mario.jhtml| access-date =December 19, 2006| url-status =dead| archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20070429010915/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1557037/20070412/mario.jhtml| archive-date =April 29, 2007}}</ref> The single was later certificated Gold by the RIAA.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rockonthenet.com/artists-m/mario.htm|title=Rock on the Net:Mario|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090103182257/http://www.rockonthenet.com/artists-m/mario.htm|archive-date=January 3, 2009}}</ref> On December 13, 2007, Mario was on "106 & Park" where he stated that the third single off the album will be "Music for Love". The album was made available for the public to listen to on his Myspace page before its release. He released the song "Do Right" on December 11. ''Go'' has sold 331,540 copies in the U.S.

In an interview with DJ "Z", Mario stated that problems with the record label caused the album launch to be pushed back 6–8 months.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.djbooth.net/index/interviews/entry/mario-interview-053007/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070606233929/http://www.djbooth.net/index/interviews/entry/mario-interview-053007/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=June 6, 2007 |title=Mario Interview |website=Djbooth.net |date=June 2007 |access-date=December 18, 2008 }}</ref> In 2008, Mario competed on season six of ''Dancing With the Stars''. He was partnered with Karina Smirnoff. They were eliminated in week eight of the competition.

===2009–2010: ''D.N.A.''=== {{main|D.N.A. (Mario album)}} In a 2009 interview with ''Rap-Up'', Mario said that "Soul Truth Entertainment" was his new entertainment company.<ref name="10 Questions for Mario"/> Before the release of his third album ''Go'', Mario confirmed in an interview with that he was working on a new album "by the time school starts back up, like after next summer" "But there's really even more than that, 'cause I'm gonna start recording, like, [at] the end of January".<ref name="Mario10">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/esearch/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003685564|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090123134243/http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/esearch/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003685564|archive-date=January 23, 2009|title=Mario Already Conceptualizing Next Album|magazine=Billboard|date= December 14, 2007|access-date=December 14, 2007}}</ref> The album is involving a wide range of producers and songwriters such as Darkchild, Babyface, Polow da Don, RedOne, and CJ of Charlio Productions, Malay, Jazze Pha, Stargate, KP, Tricky Stewart and The-Dream.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mario2u.com/blog/to-all-my-mario-fans-out-there |title=Mario in Studio with Rodney Jerkins, Babyface, Polow da don, Red One, CJ, Malay, Jazze Pha |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090202115235/http://www.mario2u.com/blog/to-all-my-mario-fans-out-there |archive-date=February 2, 2009 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.rap-up.com/2008/10/30/mario-eyes-march-release-for-fourth-album |title=RapUp.com:// no one on the corner has swagga like us » Blog Archive » Mario Eyes March Release For Fourth Album |website=Rap-up.com |access-date=December 18, 2008 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081202153651/http://www.rap-up.com/2008/10/30/mario-eyes-march-release-for-fourth-album/ |archive-date=December 2, 2008 }}</ref><ref name="LIVESTEEZ - Exclusive Interview: Mario Bares It All">{{cite web|url=http://livesteez.com/news/news_detail/1427|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090224065243/http://livesteez.com/news/news_detail/1427|archive-date=February 24, 2009|title=LIVESTEEZ – Exclusive Interview: Mario Bares It All |website=Livesteez.com |date=November 7, 2008 |access-date=December 18, 2008|author=Bella Vai}}</ref> Mario said that he would like to work with no more than four producers for this album.<ref name="Mario10"/> Mario has described this album as world music, an old school R&B influenced with a modern dance pop sound.<ref name="LIVESTEEZ - Exclusive Interview: Mario Bares It All" /> The album is being described as his "most personal, colossal album of his career."

In January 2009, Mario became the face of Pelle Pelle's European Spring/Summer campaign with various press shots running through the first part of the year.<ref>[http://www.pellepelle-europe.com Pelle Pelle featuring Mario]. Pellepelle-europe.com. Retrieved August 28, 2012.</ref> For his fourth album ''D.N.A.'', the lead single "Break Up" was released on April 28, 2009. The song features Sean "The Pen" Garrett and Gucci Mane.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://bossip.com/86689/exclusive-studio-news-marios-and-then-there-was-me/ |title=Exclusive* Studio News: Mario's "And Then There Was Me |website=Bossip.com |date=February 23, 2009 |access-date=March 7, 2009 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://archive.wikiwix.com/cache/20111003064237/http://bossip.com/86689/exclusive-studio-news-marios-and-then-there-was-me/ |archive-date=October 3, 2011 }}</ref> In the U.S., the song peaked at number 2 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Chart and 14 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming Mario's most successful single in five years. The single has been certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for a shipment of over 500,000 units.<ref>[http://www.mario2u.com/news/mario-turn-dna-october-13th Mario to turn in D.N.A. October 13th] {{webarchive|url=https://archive.today/20130128054025/http://www.mario2u.com/news/mario-turn-dna-october-13th|date=January 28, 2013}}. Mario2u.com (December 22, 2011). Retrieved August 28, 2012.</ref> "Thinkin' About You", was released as the second single reaching number forty-five on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Chart. "Stranded" was never labeled as the third single due to the limited airplay that it received. Lack of interest led to the single being canceled, although in January 2010 the song entered on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs peaking at number 84. "Ooh Baby" was later confirmed to be the third single from the album, it peaked on the week of March 19, 2010 debuting on the Billboard Hot 100 at number 95. The album was made available for the public to listen to on his Myspace page before its release. The album debuted at number nine on the Billboard 200, selling 38,000 copies in its first week, becoming Mario's lowest-selling debut in the United States. So far, it has sold 93,385 copies in the U.S.

===2011–2016: Canceled albums and departure from RCA Records=== Mario recorded an album with producer Rico Love from 2010 to mid-2011 under the tentative title ''Restoration''. Songs from this album included "My Bed", "Killa", "Bermuda", "The Walls", "Recovery", "Falling Down" and "Computer Love". During Mario's appearance on BET's 106 & Park on July 10, 2013, Mario stated that he felt the album recorded with Rico Love did not feel part of his career plan and that he scrapped that album and went on to record his then titled album ''Evolve'', which was set to be released in September 2013, but was delayed to 2014. For his fifth album, Mario stated the album will include "Love songs, ballads, club records and general R&B", and has said there will be no EDM songs on this album. Mario took writers Jeremiah "Sickpen" Bethea and Jimi Bonet under his wing amongst others to write for this album. Production on the album includes work by Glass John, Bam Alexander, Polow da Don and possibly Ne-Yo.

In an interview with ''Vibe'', Mario was asked what direction he was trying to go with on his fifth album; his answer was, "I wanna give as much honesty as I can. I want to be honest, but grab the attention of everybody, but still compete so when you hear it on the radio it's pushing the envelope. The melodies coming out of me now are unorthodox— melodies I've never expressed before". He also confirmed he has five tracks that are definitely going on. "These tracks are like movies, they are intense", he added. Nevertheless, the album will probably feature a song centered on his mother, written by himself.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://vibe.com/content/mario-page-3|title=Mario Talks Refocusing On Music & New Mixtape [Pg. 3] VIBE|date=December 2, 2010|access-date=January 2, 2011|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101211123248/http://vibe.com/content/mario-page-3|archive-date=December 11, 2010}}</ref> In August 2011, RCA Music Group announced it was disbanding J Records along with Arista Records and Jive Records. With the shutdown, Mario, and all other artists previously signed to these three labels, will release his future albums on the RCA Records label.<ref>Christman, Ed. (August 23, 2011) [http://www.billboard.biz/bbbiz/industry/record-labels/rca-s-new-executive-team-named-under-ceo-1005324782.story RCA's New Executive Team Named Under CEO Peter Edge Amid Layoffs (Update)] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120326023401/http://www.billboard.biz/bbbiz/industry/record-labels/rca-s-new-executive-team-named-under-ceo-1005324782.story|date=March 26, 2012}}. Billboard.biz. Retrieved April 15, 2012.</ref><ref>[http://www.fmqb.com/article.asp?id=2268707 Radio Industry News, Music Industry Updates, Arbitron Ratings, Music News and more!] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111108044953/http://www.fmqb.com/article.asp?id=2268707|date=November 8, 2011}}. FMQB. Retrieved April 15, 2012.</ref>

Through his official Twitter page, on May 17, 2013, Mario confirmed that he has been working with Polow Da Don, for the lead single "Somebody Else" featuring rapper Nicki Minaj was already recorded and released.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://twitter.com/MarioSoulTruth/status/335497851696214016 |title=Mario Barrett on Twitter: "S/O to @PolowDaDon!!! ONE OF THE BEST TO EVER DO IT!! MY BROTHA!!!" |publisher=Twitter |date=May 17, 2013 |access-date=July 8, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131104105753/https://twitter.com/MarioSoulTruth/status/335497851696214016 |archive-date=November 4, 2013 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://twitter.com/MarioSoulTruth/status/335529805699239936 |title=Mario Barrett on Twitter: "Yooww! Just heard the final mix! @NICKIMINAJ You put NY on ur back wit this one! Your the fucking best! @PolowDaDon Ur a genius fam!" |publisher=Twitter |date=May 17, 2013 |access-date=July 8, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131104110027/https://twitter.com/MarioSoulTruth/status/335529805699239936 |archive-date=November 4, 2013 }}</ref>{{Primary source inline|plural=yes|date=August 2025}} The song was made available in the iTunes Store on May 21, 2013. He thanked Polow Da Don, Jeremiah Renaldo, Nicki Minaj and CJ Hilton for composing the song. He stated that his album would be released in September 2013 and may include guest appearances from Minaj, J. Cole and Sevyn Streeter. "Fatal Distraction" will be his next single.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisisrnb.com/2013/06/mario-says-hes-refined-on-new-album-talks-next-single-duet-with-sevyn-streeter/ |title=Mario Says He's 'Refined' On New Album, Talks Next Single, Duet with Sevyn Streeter &#124; ThisisRnB.com – Hot New R&B Music, Videos, News |website=ThisisRnB.com |date=June 5, 2013 |access-date=July 8, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150709162819/http://www.thisisrnb.com/2013/06/mario-says-hes-refined-on-new-album-talks-next-single-duet-with-sevyn-streeter/ |archive-date=July 9, 2015 }}</ref> Mario announced during a USTREAM interview with Music Choice, his album will be released in October 2013 but was pushed back.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/35628559|title=U&A with Mario, Music Choice MCMusicChoice on USTREAM. Other Music|date=August 19, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130819074620/http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/35628559|access-date=January 6, 2022|archive-date=August 19, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://twitter.com/MarioSoulTruth/status/357587884204756993 |title=Mario Barrett on Twitter: "Just to clarify, the album is not called "Restoration". I will announce the album title very soon." |publisher=Twitter |date=July 17, 2013 |access-date=July 8, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131220134853/https://twitter.com/MarioSoulTruth/status/357587884204756993 |archive-date=December 20, 2013 }}</ref>{{Primary source inline|plural=yes|date=August 2025}} The second single "Fatal Distraction" was released on September 10, 2013.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.com/Fatal-Distraction/dp/B00EBGOFX2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1377708405&sr=8-1&keywords=mario+fatal+distraction |title=Fatal Distraction: Mario: MP3 Downloads |website=Amazon.com |access-date=July 8, 2015}}</ref> After that, Mario parted ways with RCA Records due to creative differences.

In the summer of 2015, Mario announced that he was planning on releasing a new album, titled ''Never 2 Late'', it was scheduled to be released on December 4, 2015, but this album release never materialized due to disagreements with management. It was to be supported by the single "Forever" featuring Rick Ross, produced by Scott Storch and Draydel which was only leaked online but never was released commercially. The album, which was completely produced by Storch, has been indefinitely shelved.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2015/08/26/new-music-mario-rick-ross-forever/|title=New Music: Mario feat. Rick Ross – 'Forever' – Rap-Up – Rap-Up|website=Rap-up.com|access-date=May 5, 2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160720104340/http://www.rap-up.com/2015/08/26/new-music-mario-rick-ross-forever/|archive-date=July 20, 2016}}</ref>

===2016–present: New Citizen label, ''Dancing Shadows'', ''Closer to Mars'' EP and upcoming sixth album=== {{Main|Dancing Shadows}} In May 2016, Mario premiered his new single, "I Need More" on Zane Lowe's Beats 1 show. He also announced that his fifth studio album would be now titled ''Paradise Cove'', that is set to be released off of his newly founded independent label New Citizen. On December 13, 2016, he released the second single off the album, which is called "Let Me Help You".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thefader.com/2016/12/12/mario-let-me-help-you-premiere|title=Mario's A Selfless Lover On His New Song "Let Me Help You"|website=Thefader.com|access-date=May 5, 2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170510085556/http://www.thefader.com/2016/12/12/mario-let-me-help-you-premiere|archive-date=May 10, 2017}}</ref>

In March 2017, in an interview with Music Choice, Mario revealed that his fifth album will be no longer called ''Paradise Cove'' and that the new album title is called ''Cosmo 17'', stating "The new album title is ''Cosmo 17'', and I love ''Paradise Cove'' too absolutely. I can't say that this album has an island vibe. I think "Let Me Help You" is the only record. The rest of the album developing it, it kinda took a life of its own. It's kinda like I was talkin to myself as a kid telling him like, love still exists like it's still real like you know you still believe in it don't give up, and if you can't find it here on earth maybe you gotta go to the cosmos to find it."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ratedrnb.com/2017/03/mario-announces-new-album-cosmo-17/|title=Mario Changes Fifth Album Title to 'Cosmo 17'|website=ratedrnb.com|date=March 8, 2017|access-date=May 5, 2018}}</ref>

He has released a new single from ''Cosmos 17'' "Pain is the New Pleasure" on June 16, 2017.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.vibe.com/2017/06/mario-pain-is-the-new-pleasure-mp3/|title=Mario's "Pain Is The New Pleasure" Touches On Mental Health|date=June 19, 2017|website=Vibe (magazine)|access-date=May 5, 2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171021005219/https://www.vibe.com/2017/06/mario-pain-is-the-new-pleasure-mp3/|archive-date=October 21, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/music/rb-hip-hop/mario-pain-is-the-new-pleasure-cosmos-17-album-7833783/|title=Mario Premieres 'Pain is the New Pleasure,' Discusses New Musical Approach & Therapeutic Creative Process|magazine=Billboard|access-date=May 5, 2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180118122615/https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/hip-hop/7833783/mario-pain-is-the-new-pleasure-cosmos-17-album|archive-date=January 18, 2018}}</ref> In October, he collaborated with THRDL!FE and Kelli-Leigh on a new charity single called "For Love".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_d3tZyOGjhQ|title=For Love|date=October 19, 2017 |via=YouTube|access-date=May 5, 2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180505180048/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_d3tZyOGjhQ|archive-date=May 5, 2018}}</ref>

Mario spoke with the FunX radio station during the Oh My! Music Festival in June 2018, announcing that the album ''Cosmo 17'' is now re-titled ''Dancing Shadows'' and will be released in the late fall with a new single called "Drowning": "We changed the name of it. Making an album is like giving birth to something. You go through different names and different vibes."<ref name="Dancing Shadows" />

On July 20, 2018, Mario released "Drowning" and the accompanying music video. "This song is about being faced with the reality of having multiple women I love for different reasons," he said in a press statement.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ratedrnb.com/2018/07/mario-gets-deep-on-new-single-drowning/|title=Mario Gets Deep on New Single 'Drowning'|website=ratedrnb.com|date=July 20, 2018|access-date=July 21, 2018}}</ref>

On September 14, 2018, the title track of Mario's fifth album of the same name was released. On October 5, 2018, ''Dancing Shadows'' was finally released.

Mario released the single "Closer", on April 24, 2020; it appears on his EP ''Closer to Mars'', which was released on October 16, 2020,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/us/album/closer-to-mars-ep/1517173560|title=Closer to Mars - EP by Mario|publisher=Apple Music (US)|website=music.apple.com|access-date=October 2, 2020}}</ref> while his upcoming sixth album is set to release sometime in 2021.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-04-24|title=Mario Returns With New Song 'Closer'|url=https://ratedrnb.com/2020/04/mario-wants-to-get-closer-on-new-song/|access-date=2021-03-08|website=Rated R&B|language=en-US}}</ref> "Mars" was released as the second single from the EP on October 2, 2020, alongside its music video.<ref>{{cite tweet|url=https://mobile.twitter.com/OHYESMARIO/status/1311366822986305536|title=MARS 10/2|user=OHYESMARIO|number=1311366822986305536|date=September 30, 2020}}</ref> The third single "Pretty Mouth Magick" was released on October 16, 2020, alongside its music video.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Ju|first=Shirley|date=2020-06-01|title=Mario talks 'Closer' EP, potential Verzuz battles, business ventures and more|url=https://www.revolt.tv/2020/6/1/21277263/mario-closer-verzuz-music-interview|access-date=2021-03-08|website=REVOLT|language=en}}</ref>

In 2024, Mario competed in season twelve of ''The Masked Singer'' as "Wasp" where Ne-Yo (who competed as "Cow" in season ten) served as his Mask Ambassador. He finished in second place, did an encore performance of "Let Me Love You", and even figured out that "Buffalos" was Boyz II Men.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://people.com/masked-singer-season-12-finale-recap-buffalos-or-wasp-named-winner-8762084|title=The Masked Singer Season 12 Crowns a Winner! Find Out Whether Buffalos or Wasp Took Home the Golden Mask Trophy|website=People|first=Dana Rose|last=Falcone|date=December 18, 2024|access-date=December 19, 2024}}</ref>

==Other ventures== ===Acting career=== Mario starred as Miles Darby in ''Step Up'', a dance-themed film released on August 11, 2006. He also appeared in ''Freedom Writers'', which was released on January 5, 2007. Mario did not take acting classes before undertaking the role.<ref name="Mario2"/> Mario has stated that he would like to own his own film production company titled "Inside Paris Productions" and become a director.<ref name="Mario1">{{cite news| last =Adler| first =Shawn| title =Mario Sheds A Tear For 'Freedom,' Says He Wants To Direct| publisher =MTV| date =December 19, 2006| url =http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1548309/20061218/story.jhtml| access-date =December 19, 2006| url-status =dead| archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20070429110635/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1548309/20061218/story.jhtml| archive-date =April 29, 2007}}</ref> On March 5, 2009, Mario said on Twitter that he had made an ABC network testing for a new pilot.<ref>{{cite news | last =Barrett| first =Mario| title =Mario ABC network testing for a new Pilot| publisher =Twitter| date =March 5, 2009 | url =https://www.twitter.com/MarioSoulTruth/statuses/1285253933| access-date =March 8, 2009}}</ref>{{Primary source inline|date=December 2019}} As result, he made an announcement to ''The Electric Company'' on PBS, with the "Soft G".<ref>{{cite news| title =THE ELECTRIC COMPANY: Mario Barrett's "Soft G"| via =YouTube| date =March 13, 2009| url =https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0TjxgMwNabo| access-date =March 20, 2009| url-status =live| archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20120427193911/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0TjxgMwNabo| archive-date =April 27, 2012}}</ref> He starred in ''One on One'' as Spirit's date to the dance. In 2019, he portrayed the character "Benny" in the Emmy Award winning musical ''Rent: Live''.

===Knightwritaz=== {{Infobox musical artist | name = Knightwritaz | background = group_or_band | years_active = 2005—2010 | past_members = *Marsha *Sterling Simms *Oak Felder *Jamila Rose<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/pg/KnightWritaz/about/?ref=page_internal|title=Knightwritaz (RNB / Pop Music Production Crew)|website=facebook.com}}</ref>{{Primary source inline|date=December 2019}} *Mario }}

Formed in 2005, Knightwritaz is a production team of which Mario was part of. The team included Sterling Simms, Warren "Oak" Felder and Marsha of Floetry. Aside from producing songs for Mario's third album ''Go'' (2008), the team has written and produced songs for Jennifer Lopez, Chris Brown, Jordin Sparks, Usher and Raven-Symoné. Having seldom worked as a collective fivesome, Mario claimed to be more of the songwriter in the team by 2007.<ref>{{cite news| last =Concepcion| first =Mariel| title =Mario Teams With Akon, Timbaland on New Set| magazine =Billboard| date =April 19, 2007| url =http://billboard.com/bbcom/news/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003573905| access-date =May 8, 2009| url-status =dead| archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20070422040645/http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/news/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003573905| archive-date =April 22, 2007}}</ref> In 2009, he stated that he was no longer part of the group.<ref name="10 Questions for Mario">{{cite web |url=http://www.rap-up.com/2009/05/26/10-questions-for-mario/#more-19091 |title=10 Questions for Mario |author=Georgette Cline |access-date=July 2, 2009 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090531012446/http://www.rap-up.com/2009/05/26/10-questions-for-mario/#more-19091 |archive-date=May 31, 2009 }}</ref>

===Do Right Foundation=== Mario's Do Right Foundation was established in March 2008 to educate and inspire children who suffer from the drug addictions of their parents.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://telepicturesblog.warnerbros.com/tyrashow/2008/01/rb_singer_marios_foundation_fo.php|title=R&B Singer Mario's Foundation for Children of Addicts |author=The Tyra Banks Show|access-date= March 30, 2009|date= January 25, 2008}}</ref> In May, Mario published a notice on the Facebook page of the foundation, saying that he had been in a studio in Miami all night re-recording the song "Do Right" from his 2007 album ''Go''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Marios-Do-Right-Foundation/111893275517103?ref=mf|title=I'M EXHAUSTED FB Friends|author=Mario Barrett|website=Facebook|access-date=June 5, 2010|date=May 29, 2010|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160110085349/https://www.facebook.com/pages/Marios-Do-Right-Foundation/111893275517103?ref=mf|archive-date=January 10, 2016}}</ref>{{Primary source inline|date=December 2019}}

===New Citizen LLC=== {{Infobox record label <!-- See Wikipedia:WikiProject_Music --> | name = New Citizen LLC | image = | image_size = | image_alt = | caption = | parent = | founded = {{Start date|2016}} | founder = Mario | defunct = <!-- {{End date|YYYY}} --> | status = Active | distributor = Empire Distribution (former)<br />The Orchard (former) Epic Records | genre = | country = United States | website = <!-- {{URL|example.com}} --> }}

Since 2016, Mario founded his independent record label New Citizen LLC, and has signed a partnership deal with EMPIRE for distribution.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://allunsigned.com/mario-releases-music-under-indie-imprint-new-citizen-stream-i-need-more/|title=Mario Releases Music Under Indie Imprint New Citizen Stream 'I Need More'|last=Unsigned|first=All|date=May 9, 2016|website=All Unsigned|access-date=November 29, 2019}}</ref> In 2020, Mario partnered with The Orchard to distribute future music releases after he parted ways from EMPIRE.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-07-08|title=Black-Led Independent Labels You Should Know (Updating)|url=https://www.dailyrindblog.com/black-led-independent-labels-you-should-know/|access-date=2021-03-08|website=The Daily Rind|language=en-US}}</ref>

==Personal life== MTV aired a special on October 21, 2007, ''I Won't Love You to Death: The Story of Mario and His Mom'', which dealt with his mother's heroin addiction. The documentary is about how the singer strives for help to stop his mother's addiction. While doing this, he seeks help from family and friends.<ref>[http://mog.com/MrFrost/blog_post/118405 R&B Star Mario Tackles His Mothers Drug Addition On TV Special] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090411005402/http://mog.com/MrFrost/blog_post/118405|date=April 11, 2009}}. Mog.com (October 16, 2007). Retrieved August 28, 2012.</ref> Mario wrote a letter to his mother stating how appreciative he is and begs her to stop her addiction. At the end of the letter he says, "I love you, but I won't love you to death".<ref>[http://www.theinsider.com/news/723982_Singer_Mario_Launches_Do_Right_Campaign] {{dead link|date=June 2016|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref> On the documentary, produced by Gigantic! Productions, he won the 2008's Prism Award for its accurate portrayal of drug abuse.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.samhsa.gov/SAMHSA_News/VolumeXVI_3/article15.htm|title=SAMHSA holds PRISM Awards and Voice Awards|date=January 18, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090118050100/http://www.samhsa.gov/SAMHSA_News/VolumeXVI_3/article15.htm|access-date=January 6, 2022|archive-date=January 18, 2009}}</ref> Mario has written a song titled "Do Right" that is dedicated to his mother. This song explains his mother's addiction and how it affected his childhood.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xs4all.nl/~mroyen/news.htm|title=Mario Ready to 'Go'|publisher=Spotlight on RnB|date=April 22, 2007|access-date=March 14, 2009|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090303180525/http://www.xs4all.nl/~mroyen/news.htm|archive-date=March 3, 2009}}</ref> The song is featured on his third album ''Go''.

In 2009, Mario endorsed PETA in the campaign against killing animals titled "Ink, Not Mink". He tells: "Be comfortable in your own skin, and let animals keep theirs".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.singersroom.com/interview/artist-v-159.asp |title=Mario: A New Point of View |author=Lauren Walker |date=May 27, 2009 |access-date=July 8, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090814183721/http://www.singersroom.com/interview/artist-v-159.asp |archive-date=August 14, 2009 }}</ref> Mario has homes in Baltimore, Atlanta, and Los Angeles.<ref name="Mario2"/>

In August 2025, Mario revealed via his Instagram stories that he is expecting his first child with girlfriend Esmeralda Rios.<ref>{{cite web |last=Williams |first=Prince |title=Mario and girlfriend seemingly expecting first child together |url=https://www.revolt.tv/article/mario-and-girlfriend-seemingly-expecting-first-child |website=REVOLT |date=2025-08-28 |access-date=2025-11-26}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | last=Grant | first=Kayla | date=2025-08-28 | title=Singer Mario Expecting His First Baby with Girlfriend Esmeralda Rios | website=PEOPLE | url=https://people.com/singer-mario-expecting-his-first-baby-with-girlfriend-esmeralda-rios-11799590 | access-date=2025-11-26 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Mario Is Expecting His First Child With Girlfriend Esmerelda Rios |url=https://www.iheart.com/content/2025-08-29-mario-is-expecting-his-first-child-with-girlfriend-esmerelda-rios/ |website=iHeart |author=Tony M. Centeno |date=August 29, 2025 |access-date=November 26, 2025}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Inman |first=DeMicia |title=Mario and Girlfriend Reportedly Expecting Their First Baby|url=https://www.vibe.com/news/entertainment/mario-girlfriend-expecting-first-baby-1235099783/|website=Vibe|access-date=November 26, 2025}}</ref>

==Awards and nominations== {| class="wikitable sortable plainrowheaders" |- ! scope="col" | Award ! scope="col" | Year ! scope="col" | Nominee(s) ! scope="col" | Category ! scope="col" | Result ! scope="col" class="unsortable"| {{Abbr|Ref.|References}} |- !scope="row"|MTV Europe Music Awards | 2005 | Himself | Best R&B | {{nom}} | <ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2005/nov/03/popandrock|title=MTV Europe awards: nominations in full|date=November 3, 2005|access-date=May 6, 2026|newspaper=The Guardian}}</ref> |- !scope="row" rowspan=3|Teen Choice Awards | rowspan=3|2005 | Himself | Choice Music: R&B Artist | {{nom}} | rowspan=3|<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.thefutoncritic.com/news/2005/06/01/fox-announces-nominees-for-the-2005-teen-choice-awards--18495/20050601fox01/|title=Breaking News - FOX Announces Nominees for "The 2005 Teen Choice Awards"|website=Thefutoncritic.com|access-date=May 6, 2026}}</ref> |- | rowspan=2|"Let Me Love You" | Choice Music: R&B/Hip-Hop Track | {{nom}} |- | Choice Music: Love Song | {{nom}} {{end}}

==Discography== {{main|Mario discography}}

;Studio albums * ''Mario'' (2002) * ''Turning Point'' (2004) * ''Go'' (2007) * ''D.N.A.'' (2009) * ''Dancing Shadows'' (2018) * ''Glad You Came'' (2024) * ''Mood Swings'' (2025)

==Filmography==

===Film=== {|class="wikitable sortable" |- ! Year ! Title ! Role ! Notes |- | 2004 | ''Uncle P'' | Himself | |- | 2006 | ''Step Up'' | Miles Darby | |- | 2007 | ''Freedom Writers'' | Andre Bryant | |- | 2012 | ''Destination Fame'' | Wizzy | Video |- | 2019 | ''Rent: Live'' | Benjamin "Benny" Coffin III | TV movie |- | 2024 | ''Style Me for Christmas'' | Tedee Maxwell | TV movie |}

===Television=== {|class="wikitable sortable" |- ! Year ! Title ! Role ! Notes |- |rowspan="3"| 2003 | ''The Saturday Show'' | Himself | Episode: "Episode #1.90" |- | ''One on One'' | Marvin | Episode: "The Test" |- | ''Sabrina, the Teenage Witch'' | Himself | Episode: "What a Witch Wants" |- |rowspan="2"| 2004 | ''Steve Harvey's Big Time Challenge'' | Himself | Episode: "Episode #2.9" |- | ''Showtime at the Apollo'' | Himself | Episode: "Mario/Freddie Jackson" |- |rowspan="6"| 2005 | ''Soul Train'' | Himself | Episode: "Mario/Lyfe Jennings" |- | ''Punk'd'' | Himself | Episode: "Episode #4.1" |- | ''All of Us'' | Himself | Episode: "Movin’ on Up" |- | ''Top of the Pops'' | Himself | Recurring Guest |- | ''Mad TV'' | Himself | Episode: "Episode #11.8" |- | ''Showtime at the Apollo'' | Himself | Episode: "Mario/Jadakiss" |- |rowspan="2"| 2008 | ''Dancing with the Stars'' | Himself | Contestant: Season 6 |- | ''Battleground Earth'' | Himself | Episode: "Downtown Battleground" |- | 2009–2010 | ''The Electric Company'' | Himself | Recurring Guest: Season 1–2 |- | 2014 | ''Love That Girl!'' | Terrence | Episode: "Gullible Is as Gullible Does" |- | 2016 | ''Greatest Hits'' | Himself | Episode: "Greatest Hits: 2000–2005" |- | 2018–2020 | ''Empire'' | Devon | Recurring Cast: Season 5, Main Cast: Season 6 |- | 2019 | ''Song Association'' | Himself | Episode: "Mario" |- | 2020 | ''Wild 'n Out'' | Himself/Team Captain | Episode: "Mario" |- | 2022 | ''Unsung'' | Himself | Episode: "Warryn Campbell" |- | 2024 | ''All the Queen's Men'' | | Recurring role: Season 4 |- | 2024 | ''The Masked Singer'' | Himself/Wasp | Season 12 contestant; Finished in 2nd Place |- | 2025 | ''Last Week Tonight'' | Himself | Episode: "Trump & Tariffs" |}

==Tour== * Crushin' It World Tour (2016) * Mario's Concert Tour (2021) * The Millennium Tour: Turned Up! (2022) * Champagne and Roses Tour (2023 - 2024) * The For My Fans Tour (2024)

===Virtual concert=== * The Luxury of Love. Live. (2021)

==See also== * List of dancers

==References== {{Reflist}}

==External links== {{Commons category|Mario (singer)|Mario}} * [http://www.marioworldwide.com/ Official website] *{{IMDb name|1276562|Mario}}

{{Mario (singer)}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Mario}} Category:1986 births Category:African-American male actors Category:African-American male models Category:Record producers from Maryland Category:African-American male singer-songwriters Category:American male singer-songwriters Category:American child singers Category:American contemporary R&B singers Category:American male pop singers Category:J Records artists Category:Living people Category:Male actors from Baltimore Category:Singers from Baltimore Category:Participants in American reality television series Category:RCA Records artists Category:Sony BMG artists Category:Singer-songwriters from Maryland Category:21st-century African-American singers