Mari-B: The Lova-Girl with Passion, Purpose, and Persistence
Biography
Maria Ebenyin Idoko (born June 22, 2001), professionally known as Mari-B, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter from Bekwarra, Cross River State. She is widely recognized for her smooth fusion of Zouk and Afrobeat, with music that explores themes of love, relationships, and deep emotional expression.
Early Life and Education
Mari-B was born into the family of Mr. and Mrs. E. Idoko and is the second child of her parents. She was raised in Calabar, Cross River State, where she completed her nursery, primary, and secondary education.
She later gained admission into the University of Calabar, where she studied Mass Communication and graduated during the 2024/2025 academic session.
Growing up in a music-oriented household played a major role in shaping her artistic journey. Her father, a passionate music lover, introduced her to a wide range of genres including country music, Afrobeat, R&B, reggae, and Afro-fusion, which sparked her early interest in music and songwriting.
Music Career
Mari-B officially launched her professional music career in 2018 with the release of her debut R&B single, “De One.” That same year, she released her debut EP titled Assured Love, a project centered on themes of affection, emotional commitment, and belief in love.
Although she considers herself a versatile artist, Mari-B is primarily known for her Zouk and Afrobeat sound. She draws inspiration from music icons such as Tiwa Savage, Simi, and 2Baba, while placing strong emphasis on originality and emotional authenticity in her music.
To date, Mari-B has released over 13 songs, maintaining a quality-driven approach rather than frequent releases. She has collaborated with several artists, including Challex D Boss, Patrick Shadow, Upper X, Anyi-Vee, and Amadi-Nnamdi.
Performances and Events
Mari-B has hosted three music concerts, with the 2024 edition featuring Nigerian musician Mista Xto as a guest artist. She has also been a consistent performer at the Calabar Carnival since 2019 and has appeared as a guest artist at the Okwelle Carnival in Owerri, Imo State.
Music Videos and Recognition
In 2025, Mari-B released a professionally produced music video for her song “Plenty Money,” reportedly shot on a budget exceeding ₦1.7 million. The project marked a significant milestone in her career as an independent female artist.
Her recognitions include:
Fast Rising Campus Entertainer (2019)
Female Artist of the Year (2025)
Artistry and Influences
Mari-B’s music is deeply rooted in themes of love, emotional vulnerability, and personal experiences. She proudly describes herself as a “Lova-Girl,” a concept that defines both her personal identity and artistic direction. Her songwriting process is largely mood-driven and intuitive, focusing on emotional comfort and genuine connection with listeners.
Other Interests
Beyond music, Mari-B has a strong passion for reading, writing, and storytelling. She has also expressed interest in exploring the film industry, with aspirations of becoming a movie producer in the future.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, Mari-B plans to collaborate with both established Nigerian and international artists as she continues to build a lasting musical legacy. She has announced that major projects are scheduled for release from 2026 onward.