Born Omary Ally Mwanga, Marioo said he deliberately brought together artists from different parts of Africa, including Rwanda’s Bruce Melodie, because each artist contributes a unique sound and identity capable of enriching the project and creating a musical experience that connects East Africa with the rest of the continent.
The EP features several tracks, including “Mombasa,” “Priority” featuring Bruce Melodie, “Document (Dusma)”featuring Ya Levis, “UA (Flowers)” featuring Sofiya Nzau, “Sugar” featuring Chella, “Watu” featuring D Voice, “Pombe” featuring Harmonize, as well as “Pombe I” and “Pombe II (We Live Once)” featuring Babydaiz.
According to Marioo, “MMMCXII” should be viewed as an artistic project rather than simply a music project. He explained that it brings together different elements of his creativity, including emotions, culture, personal experiences, and the journey of transformation that has shaped both his life and career.
Initially, the EP was built around a concept he calls “Divine Completion,” inspired by the symbolic meaning of the number seven. The numbers 3+1+1+2 add up to seven, a figure often associated with completion and fulfillment. However, as the project evolved, it expanded beyond that original concept and grew into a broader celebration of African culture and artistic expression.
“I wanted to create something beyond music,” Marioo said. “I wanted to build a world that captures emotions, culture, time, art, and personal transformation all within one project.”
The singer explained that the EP revolves around themes such as endings and new beginnings, personal growth, self-reflection, transformation, and finding new life after difficult experiences.
Musically, Marioo said “MMMCXII” explores a wide range of African sounds while remaining rooted in Bongo Flava, the genre that has defined his career. The project blends elements of Afrobeats, Afro Fusion, East African sounds, Afro-pop, Francophone-inspired melodies, Zouk, 3-Step rhythms, and emotionally driven storytelling.
“Every song was created with its own emotional identity and personality,” he explained. “I didn’t want all the tracks to sound the same. I wanted each song to feel like a different chapter in an emotional journey.”
The title “MMMCXII” is derived from Marioo’s birthday, December 31, which he converted into Roman numerals representing 3112. He said the date carries deep meaning because it symbolizes a moment when the world stands between ending one chapter and beginning another.
“That date represents both closure and a new beginning. It became the foundation of the entire project. I wanted to transform time into art, emotion, identity, and sound.”
Speaking specifically about “Priority,” his collaboration with Bruce Melodie, Marioo said he wanted to create a song that showcased the strength of East African music while delivering a mature message about love and emotions.
“Priority represents emotion and East African unity. Working with Bruce Melodie allowed us to combine smooth melodies, emotional songwriting, and regional musical chemistry to create a song that can resonate across Africa.”
Music industry observers believe “MMMCXII” could become one of the most significant projects of Marioo’s career, thanks to its ambitious artistic vision, diverse musical influences, and collaborations with some of Africa’s most respected artists.
The EP not only highlights Marioo’s growth as a musician but also reinforces his desire to push creative boundaries and connect African cultures through music.
How Bruce Melodie Became Part of Marioo’s Most Personal Project Yet
“I Wanted to Create Something Beyond Music” – Marioo on Collaborating with Bruce Melodie
