Joe and Jada - Mario on stadium tour w/ Chris Brown & Usher, state of R&B, fatherhood & making of “Let Me Love You”

The tour represents the biggest stage R&B has ever occupied, with a vibrant, authentic energy among the performers. Chris Brown has consistently defended Mario in interviews and personally invited him to join the tour, leading to genuine offstage conversations.

The original vocal files for "Let Me Love You" disappeared, forcing a rushed two-hour re-recording that Clive Davis immediately selected as the single.

He believes no one else could have sung the record better and that it was meant for him.

Ne-Yo has reportedly said he wishes he had kept the song for himself.

He strains his voice in rehearsal until he can't talk, believing the muscle recovers stronger for the tour, and avoids smoking to maintain his clear vocal texture.

He prefers in-ear monitors for stadium shows but never used the expensive custom molds he was forced to buy.

Mike Tyson intervened when Big Pun was arguing with security at The Tunnel, saving Fat Joe and Big Pun from a potential beating.

He was deeply affected by Uncle Marv's death in "Raising Kanan" and is currently engrossed in "House of the Dragon," comparing plot twists to local Bronx legends.

His son spiritually appeared to his mother three days before she knew she was pregnant, and the name Lord Nasir signifies a strong, governing presence. Fatherhood has made him more patient and empathetic, though touring requires managing time through FaceTime and planned experiences.

R&B is missing its core soulful identity, though artists like H.E.R., SZA, and Lucky Daye are maintaining quality.

90s R&B is the definitive standard, and modern hits only succeed when they capture that era's vibe through remixes.

He is taking his time to craft textures that make sense for fans rather than rushing releases.

He wants Mario to sign a young female R&B artist from Yonkers signed to Breon, believing her talent is undeniable once heard.

He is looking to sign self-contained artists who understand their position but need help navigating the industry, aiming to pass down wisdom. Bryson Tiller worked humbly in Richard Barber's crib before blowing up, and Leon Thomas has been steadily building his craft.

Luther Vandross could command a stadium's attention without using a microphone, and James Brown's soulful performance outshone Pavarotti in a direct battle.

Michael Jackson secretly attended James Brown's funeral to comb his hair into his signature style after initially refusing to come to America.

He advises his younger self to hold his head, trust the process, and not overthink daily struggles.

He jokes about not signing contracts but acknowledges that their era's harsh deals helped break the code for better artist terms later.

Streaming and digital shifts have altered artist development, but early exposure to real interactions provides an upper hand in life.