With a voice that has defined an era of R&B and a catalog of hits that continue to resonate, Mario is entering a bold new chapter. Now operating under his label, New Citizen, in partnership with Epic Records, the seasoned singer embraces creative control and baring more of himself than ever on his new album, Glad You Came.
As he hits the road with Mary J. Blige and Ne-Yo on the For My Fans Tour, Mario speaks with The Source about growth, performance, and the pressure—and joy—that comes with making timeless music on your terms.
The Source: This album is your first full-length project under your label, New Citizen, and Epic Records. How does it feel to have more creative control over your music?
Mario: Having creative control over my music when it comes to releasing an album definitely comes with pressure—but it’s a healthy pressure. It inspires me to challenge myself to be both selfish and selfless with my art. The most important thing to me is whether we can listen to this album 10 years from now and still feel like it’s timeless. And whether it shows growth. To me, it does both.
The themes of love, success, and failure are central to this project. Is there a particular song on the album that feels most personal to you?
I would say the interlude, “I’m Sorry,” is one of the most personal tracks. I’ve ended so many relationships hoping I didn’t say the wrong things—or regretting that I didn’t say “I love you” to someone I lost. That track takes me through so many emotions every time I hear it.
You’re on the road with Mary J. Blige and Ne-Yo for The For My Fans Tour. What can fans expect from your set?
Fans can expect to be reminded why they love R&B—and why I’m here to stay. I enjoy taking people on a musical and emotional journey when I perform. I want the audience to go home feeling full of love and light.
After a long break from touring, how did you prepare mentally and physically for a 36-city run?
For me, mental preparation is about visualization. I can usually see what my future looks like, and that helps. Physically, getting into “tour shape” is tough, but pacing yourself is key. I also pray and meditate a lot leading up to a tour—that’s how I handle the pressure and stay centered.
Fans have been waiting for live performances of your new music—how does it feel to bring Glad You Came to the stage finally?
It feels amazing to perform a single like “Keep Going (Aaaaahhhhh)” because the sound reflects a more mature version of me that fans haven’t seen before. Glad You Came is an album that’s meant to be experienced live, so I’m really excited for people to see that even more when I hit the road for my solo tour.