Mario Dewar Barrett, known simply as Mario, was born on August 27, 1986, in Baltimore, Maryland.

The son of comedian and actor Derrick B., Mario was introduced to the entertainment industry at an early age, with his father’s charisma and talent undoubtedly influencing his own path.

Raised by his mother, Shawntia Hardaway, Mario’s childhood was marked by both challenges and the nurturing of his innate musical talent.

From a young age, Mario was passionate about music, often participating in local talent shows and honing his vocal skills.

His big break came when he was just 14 years old. In 2001, he was signed to J Records by Clive Davis, who recognized his potential to be a standout artist in the R&B scene.

Mario’s debut single, “Just a Friend 2002,” a modern rendition of Biz Markie’s classic, quickly put him on the map.

The song became a massive hit, peaking at number four on the Billboard Hot 100, and established Mario as a rising star in the industry.

Following the success of his debut album, Mario continued to build his career with a blend of smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics.

His second album, #+”Turning Point” , released in 2004, solidified his status in the R&B world. The lead single, “Let Me Love You,” became an anthem of the era, spending nine weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100.

The song’s success earned Mario a slew of awards and nominations, including a Grammy nomination, and remains one of his most iconic tracks.

Despite his early success, Mario faced personal struggles, particularly with his mother’s battle with addiction, which he openly discussed in the MTV documentary “I Won’t Love You to Death: The Story of Mario and His Mom.”

This candidness endeared him to fans, showing a vulnerable side to the otherwise polished singer. Throughout his career, Mario has consistently sought to maintain a balance between his professional life and personal challenges, often using his music as an outlet for his emotions.

Over the years, Mario has released several albums, including “Go” (2007), “D.N.A.” (2009), and “Dancing Shadows” (2018), each showcasing his growth as an artist.

His music evolved with the times, incorporating elements of pop, soul, and hip-hop, while always staying true to his R&B roots.

In addition to his musical career, Mario explored acting, taking on roles in films like “Step Up” and “Freedom Writers” , as well as appearing in television series such as “Empire” .

Today, as Mario celebrates his 38th birthday, he reflects on a career filled with highs and lows, triumphs, and tribulations. He continues to perform, record new music, and engage with his fans, who have been with him since the beginning.

Mario’s journey from a young boy with a dream to an R&B sensation is one of perseverance, passion, and a deep love for his craft.

As he moves forward, Mario remains a beloved figure in R&B, inspiring a new generation of artists and listeners alike.

Happy Birthday, Mario! Here’s to many more years of incredible music and inspiration.