Mario Biondi, born Mario Ranno on January 28, 1971, in Catania, Sicily, was immersed in music from an early age. His father, Giuseppe Ranno, known by the stage name Stefano Biondi, was a popular singer, and young Mario often accompanied him to performances. This early exposure ignited his passion for soul and jazz music. Influenced by legends like Lou Rawls, Al Jarreau, and Isaac Hayes, Biondi honed his vocal skills in local choirs and began performing with various artists, including Franco Califano and Peppino Di Capri. Wikipedia
Breakthrough with “This Is What You Are”
A Soulful Debut
Biondi’s big break came in 2006 with the release of his debut single, “This Is What You Are.” Originally part of a Japanese project, the song caught the attention of BBC Radio 1 DJ Norman Jay, who introduced it to European audiences. The track’s success led to the release of his debut album, Handful of Soul, which showcased Biondi’s deep, velvety voice and his unique blend of soul and jazz. The album went platinum in Italy within months, establishing him as a prominent figure in the music scene. Il Messaggero+3Just Jazz International+3Wikipedia+3
Expanding Discography and Collaborations
A Journey Through Music
Following his debut, Biondi continued to captivate audiences with a series of successful albums:
- If (2009): Featuring the hit single “Be Lonely,” the album achieved triple-platinum status.Music Works International+1Just Jazz International+1
- Due (2011): A double CD album showcasing duets with various artists.Malkaram+3Wikipedia+3Just Jazz International+3
- Sun (2013): Produced in collaboration with Jean Paul Maunick of Incognito, the album included tracks like “Shine On” and “Deep Space.”Just Jazz International
- Beyond (2015): Featuring songs such as “Love Is a Temple.”Wikipedia+1Il Messaggero+1
- Brasil (2018): A tribute to Brazilian music.
- Dare (2021): Released on his 50th birthday, reflecting on his musical journey.
- Romantic (2022): An album celebrating love and emotion.
Throughout his career, Biondi has collaborated with renowned artists like Chaka Khan, Michael Bolton, and Burt Bacharach, further enriching his musical repertoire. Wikipedia+4Music Works International+4Just Jazz International+4
International Recognition and Performances
A Global Soul Ambassador
Biondi’s talent transcends borders. He has performed at prestigious venues worldwide, including the Royal Albert Hall in London and the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. His international appeal is bolstered by his ability to sing fluently in both English and Italian, allowing him to connect with diverse audiences. His performances are characterized by a magnetic stage presence and a voice often compared to legends like Barry White and Isaac Hayes. Malkaram+1Just Jazz International+1Just Jazz International
Personal Life and Family
A Devoted Father
Beyond his musical achievements, Biondi is a dedicated family man. He is the father of ten children from different relationships. Despite the complexities, he emphasizes the importance of unity and togetherness among his children, often organizing family gatherings where all siblings and their mothers come together. Il Messaggero
Health and Lifestyle
A Commitment to Well-being
In recent years, Biondi has made significant lifestyle changes to prioritize his health. He adopted a diet eliminating dairy, flour, and alcohol, resulting in a weight loss of 20 kilograms. This transformation reflects his dedication to maintaining the stamina required for his demanding performance schedule. Il MessaggeroJust Jazz International
Legacy and Influence
The Voice of Modern Soul
Mario Biondi’s contribution to music is marked by his distinctive voice and his ability to infuse classic soul and jazz with contemporary flair. His work has inspired a new generation of musicians and brought Italian soul music to the global stage. With a career spanning over two decades, Biondi continues to evolve as an artist, captivating audiences with his soulful melodies and heartfelt performances.