Mario Ranno (born January 28, 1971; Age: 53 years) is a famous and prominent Italian singer and songwriter known professionally as Mario Biondi.
He is recognized for his deep and soulful voice, drawing inspiration from classic jazz, soul, rhythm, and blues. He gained international recognition with his album “Handful of Soul,” released in 2006, which featured a mix of original songs and covers of soul classics.
Early Life
Mario Biondi was born and raised in Catania, Sicilian, Italy, and nurtured under the care of his local Sicilian parent. His father, Giuseppe Ranno, popularly recognized as Stefano Biondi, was a famous singer and sang in various small choirs during his youth.
From an early age, he showed a keen interest in music, with a particular fascination for jazz, soul, and R&B genres. He spends his leisure time listening to records from Lou Rawls, Al Jarreau, and Isaac Hayes.
His passion for singing became evident during childhood, and he began honing his vocal skills. Encouraged by his family, Mario participated in local events and performances, showcasing his natural talent and earning praise from those around him.
Career
Mario Biondi embarked on an incredible musical journey, transforming him into one of the most distinguished and soulful voices in contemporary jazz and soul. His deep connection to music is a passion nurtured by his upbringing in a culturally rich environment and a family that enthusiastically supported his budding talent.
During his formative years, Biondi delved into jazz, soul, and R&B genres, drawing inspiration from various musical influences. Recognizing his natural gift, he began showcasing his vocal skills at local events and performances, earning acclaim for his expressive and powerful singing. These early experiences laid the foundation for a prolific and enduring career.
Biondi’s breakthrough moment arrived with the release of “This Is What You Are” in 2006, a track that resonated globally and firmly established him as a soulful sensation. It served as a preview to his debut album, “Handful of Soul,” which showcased his impressive vocal range and highlighted his ability to blend various genres seamlessly into a cohesive and captivating sound. This marked the start of a musical evolution characterized by exploration and experimentation.
As Biondi continued to release albums such as “If” (2007), “Yes, You” (2010), and “Sun” (2013), he consistently displayed a willingness to push artistic boundaries. His work became a fusion of jazz, funk, blues, and soul, demonstrating a profound understanding of the roots of these genres while injecting a contemporary flair. Throughout his career, he remained committed to musical diversity, collaborating with renowned artists like Chaka Khan, Al Jarreau, and Incognito, both nationally and internationally.
Biondi’s career trajectory was punctuated by critical acclaim and numerous awards, highlighting his significant impact on the music industry. His ability to convey raw emotion through his voice, combined with impeccable musical arrangements, resonated with audiences and critics alike. Beyond the studio, he became known for his dynamic and enthralling live performances, touring extensively to connect with fans worldwide.
Discography
- Handful of Soul
- I Love You More (Live)
- If
- Yes You (Live)
- Due
- Sun
- Mario Christmas
- Beyond
- Best of Soul
- Brasil
- Dare
- Romantic
Personal Life
Mario has experienced a few significant relationships, which culminated in marriage. His first marriage was to Monica Farina, and their union bore six children. However, the couple eventually decided to part ways despite the initial connection, leading to their divorce.
In 2013, the Sicilian singer entered a new relationship by marrying Giorgia Albarello, a young model who had achieved the third-place position in Miss Italy in 2007. This union brought the joyous occasion of welcoming their daughter, Mia, into the world. Tragically, their marital bliss was short-lived as, in December 2014, the couple decided to go their separate ways, marking the end of their marriage.
Social Media
- Instagram: @mariobiondiofficial
Net Worth
Mario has an estimated net worth of about US$1 – US$5 million.
