Many call him the Son of Soul. R&B is revived through Mario Smith aka “Rio”. He started out his journey in a little southern town named Ripely, TN. There he was raised by his beloved Grandmother Essie Smith, and his Father James Smith. His heart is as rich and colorful as the people who live there. Mario is no stranger to struggle, and he has overcome many obstacles. He has been blessed and nurtured by the love of his family on his road to success. Mario is the youngest of three children. Mario comes from a musically inclined family. His Sister, having a beautiful voice herself, lovingly calls him the Smith family “Song Bird”. His Father was well known for singing in a Gospel group with his Uncle. Mario loves to talk about hearing his Father sing when he was a little boy. He practiced hard singing into a fan, and intimating Micheal Jackson dance moves to make his Grandmother smile. It wasn't long before everyone knew about his raw natural talent. He not only sings but he makes you feel the music. There was no question about it, Mario's voice is a God given gift. Music literally flows through the veins of this unique young artist. After the death of his Grandmother Mario and his family relocated to Iowa where he currently resides. Life in Iowa was a big change from life in Ripley. He continued to sing his heart out. His voice has taken him all over the nation. He has been blessed to work with R&B legends such as Woody from Dru Hill, Calvin Richardson, Steve Russell and Silk. He admits there has been bumps along the road, and big disappointments but his love for music is too big of a part of him for him to ever stop moving toward accomplishing his dreams. Mario was born to sing . Bringing the world soulful melodies and shocking and awing crowds is as enjoyable to him as his fans. His powerful voice and amazing stage presence has left many music lovers wanting more. Many fans have subscribed to Mario on his You-tube account mariosmithmusic. As technology has advanced Rio has been followed, watched, and appreciated for years on my-space, face-book, and you-tube. He easily becomes a favorite on any social site he signs up for. Recently Rio signed a contract with you-tube and is now working on new music videos in HD quality. He has been teamed up with talented, professionals who won't rest until Rio is a household name every time real talent is mentioned. You may be asking yourself why hasn't Rio been signed to a major record label? Why haven't I seen him on TV yet? Well I asked him the same questions and in his charismatic, charming, southern way he just smiled and humbly stated that he is on God's time, and God has not brought him this far to leave him now. Come and follow Rio on his quest to breath life and soul back into R&B for decades to come. You can't help but fall in love with the smooth, soulful, hip melodies coming from such a determined spirit
Contact info Rioent26@gmail.com

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