Mario

Despite taking a major risk when he decided to be true to himself and go by a mononym that’s usually most closely associated with a pixelated Italian plumber, Mario became a star across the world in 2004, when his second full-length record, Turning Point, was released to rave reviews and spawned the international smash ‘Let Me Love You’, an impossibly-smooth track which topped the charts in his native U.S. and very neearly did the same on the opposite side of the pond, landing at number two. Since then, follow-up records Go and D.N.A. have performed strongly, the latter going top ten in the States, but his next album - Evolve - has been consistently delayed; originally slated for October 2013, it’s now not expected to be released until an unspecified date next year. He has, though, at least been keeping himself busy on the live circuit, playing stripped-back sets at clubs across the U.S. that really highlight both his prowess in controlling a crowd and, of course, his formidable vocal ability, which is undiminished. He’s overdue a return to the UK, though, so keep your eyes peeled when Evolve drops (or perhaps if; it’s fast becoming R&B’s answer to Chinese Democracy).

He had one of the most well-know RnB love songs of the early 2000s with "Let Me Love You" and Mario has proved himself to be one of the most successful and credible male artists that the US has produced.
As a fan since the first album, not getting the chance to see Mario live in London over the years had just been crushing. So when it was announced that he would be performing at a show for RnB superstars at London's Wembley Arena, to say I was excited is not enough! I was ecstatic!
Having showcased himself as a triple threat over the years, an excellent singer, actor and dancer, his singing and dancing was certainly on top form at this show as he made his way through a set of hits including "Let Me Love You", "Just a Friend" and "How Do I Breathe". He was hands down the best performer of the night and I was just left wanting more!
Seeing Mario live last year was evidence for me that he is indeed an RnB superstar, and it was not even a headline show. I am still waiting for the day that I get to see this man perform an entire set!