The band was formed by violinist and composer Aurel Ionita, who originates from a family of Lăutari from the village of Clejani.

Mahala Rai Banda's second album “Ghetto Blasters” was recorded in 2009 in Berlin, Germany and Bucharest, Romania.

Their debut album climbed to Number 3 in the World Music Charts Europe [6] Mahala Raï Banda have also had their tracks remixed and/or reworked by electronic music producers and artists such as Nouvelle Vague, Felix B (from Basement Jaxx), Balkan Beat Box, DJ Click, Russ Jones, Shantel and more.

Mahala Raï Banda tracks have appeared on international compilations including Buddha Bar (France), Bucovina Club (Germany), Balkan Bangers and Gypsy Beats (UK), Balearic Bisquits (Denmark), Balkanology (South Africa), Rough Guide to Eastern Europe (UK), Rromanu Suno (Serbia), Balkan Beats (Germany), Barrio Latino (France), Bar Gypsy (USA), and others.

Mahala Raï Banda has also formed part of THE GYPSY QUEENS AND KINGS tour [9] since 2009, and have been featured on the 2011 platforming game LittleBigPlanet 2.