Life is too short not to stream Bruno Mars’ songs. This is also a nod towards his height, or lack thereof. Anyways, here are Bruno Mars’ best songs.
Asia all is geared up for a sonic celebration, with a bumper crop of concerts and music events set to take place over the course of 2024. While we’re still reeling from the celestial sights and sounds at Coldplay’s sold-out six concerts that took place from January 23 to 31 in Singapore, we’re also eagerly awaiting Ed Sheeran’s and pop phenomenon Taylor Swift’s performances at the Singapore National Stadium and Thailand this and next month. Now, the charismatic Bruno Mars has also jumped on the gig bandwagon with multiple sold-out shows in Singapore and Bangkok. If you missed his Macau concert on January 6, this is your next chance to see him again. Ahead of his arrival, it’s essential to tune into Bruno Mars’ most-streamed songs and best hits.
Mars’ versatile discography ranges from pop and R&B to funk and soul. A talented and dynamic entertainer, his upcoming concerts are expected to be extraordinary nights of musical enchantment. Already a successful solo artist, Mars has further solidified his influence in the entertainment world with Silk Sonic, a band he formed with singer-rapper Anderson Paak. They officially began releasing music under the Silk Sonic name in 2021 and quickly bagged four Grammy awards a year later.
Evidently, everything Bruno Mars touches turns to gold. As we get ready to sing and dance the night away when he takes the Bangkok and Singapore stages in March and April, let’s discover the best songs Bruno Mars has in store for us.
Best and most-streamed Bruno Mars songs that are pure 24K Magic
1. That’s What I Like
Streams: 1.9 B
Album: 24K Magic
“That’s What I Like” is a beautiful concoction of funk, hip-hop soul, new jack swing, and R&B, with an addictive beat that is bound to get you tapping your feet. Bruno Mars’ silky smooth vocals seamlessly transition between musical styles, giving the single a timeless and cheerful vibe. The song explores themes of wealth, love, and life’s comforts such as champagne, jewellery and world tours. The lyrics beautifully depict a rich existence, offering a musical escape into a world of indulgence.
The song reached the coveted #1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking another milestone in Bruno Mars’ already brilliant career. It’s not just a chart-topper; it’s also Bruno Mars’ most-streamed song on Spotify. Furthermore, the song was instrumental in winning the Grammy Award for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best R&B Album in 2018 for the album 24K Magic.
2. When I Was Your Man
Streams: 1.9 B
Album: Unorthodox Jukebox
Bruno Mars’ soul-stirring ballad, “When I Was Your Man”, made its debut in 2012, a stark contrast to the cheerful energy of “That’s What I Like.” In this touching song, Mars reveals a more sensitive side of his musical talent, focusing on introspection and real emotion. The words of the song form a dramatic story that explores themes of regret, heartache, and personal discovery. Mars personifies remorse as he confronts the realisation of shortcomings made in a previous relationship. The song gently reveals the emotional journey of a man who wishes he had valued and understood his girlfriend more, recognising the tremendous implications of taking love for granted.
The honesty and emotional intensity of “When I Was Your Man” drew great praise, striking a common chord with listeners who have felt the pain of lost love and wished to turn back time. Beyond critical acclaim, the song achieved great success, reaching high ranks on global music charts. The album bagged the Best Pop Vocal Album at the Grammy Awards. The song not only secured its place in Bruno Mars’ repertoire as an iconic part, but it also established itself as a timeless ballad that continues to captivate listeners worldwide. Fun fact: Miley Cyrus’ chart-topping 2023 song “Flowers” references this song.
3. Uptown Funk (feat. Bruno Mars)
Streams: 1.88 B
“Uptown Funk”, an infectious collaboration between Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars in 2014, became a cultural phenomenon. The retro-inspired single, combining funk, pop, and hip-hop, dominated charts and dance floors worldwide. Ronson’s idea of timeless funk with a modern twist blended perfectly with Mars’ charismatic vocals and powerful performance. The song’s celebration of confidence and individuality, along with lighthearted bragging, inspires listeners to go on the dance floor and embrace their identity.
The song became a party staple, frequently played at events and sports arenas. Upon release, the track stayed at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 for multiple weeks and it also won the Record of the Year and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance at the Grammy Awards.
4. Just the Way You Are
Streams: 1.88 B
Album: Doo-Wops & Hooligans
Bruno Mars’ “Just the Way You Are,” the debut single off his debut album Doo-Wops & Hooligans, is a loving serenade that has captured fans all around the world. The song, which combines traditional doo-wop and Motown with a current pop twist, showcases Mars’ soft vocals reminiscent of classic vocalists. It rapidly became a commercial hit, topping global charts such as the Billboard Hot 100 and earning Mars a Grammy for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance. The words present a message of unconditional love, complimenting the perfection of the particular person exactly as they are. Universally romantic, the song has remained a timeless favourite in romantic settings and wedding ceremonies.
5. Locked out of Heaven
Streams: 1.77 B
Album: Unorthodox Jukebox
“Locked Out of Heaven,” the lead single from Bruno Mars’ second studio album, Unorthodox Jukebox, is a genre-bending masterpiece that demonstrates Mars’ artistic diversity. The song, released in 2012, combines rock, pop, and funk while drawing inspiration from ’80s new wave and rock. This deviation from Mars’ prior work shows his growing artistic ability. With its peppy tempo, powerful production, and Mars’ soulful vocals, it was an instant hit. The lyrics explore themes of desire, passion, and the ecstasy of being in love.
The song’s catchy hooks and contagious energy earned critical acclaim, driving it to the top of global charts such as the Billboard Hot 100. This breakthrough cemented Bruno Mars’ status as a chart-topping musician. The song received several awards, including the MTV Europe Music Award for Best Song and the MTV Video Music Award for Best Male Video. The song’s cross-genre appeal and Bruno Mars’ dynamic performance have contributed to its long-lasting popularity, making it a highlight of his musical career.
6. Young, Wild & Free (feat. Bruno Mars)
Streams: 1.35 B
Album: Mac & Devin Go to High School
“Young, Wild & Free” is a cheerful collaboration between Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, and Bruno Mars. The song, released in 2011 as part of the Mac & Devin Go to High School film soundtrack, conveys the carefree and rebellious spirit associated with youth and a laid-back lifestyle. The song flawlessly integrates hip-hop, pop, and reggae sounds while maintaining a comfortable and happy mood. Bruno Mars’s guest vocals add soulful characteristics to the West Coast hip-hop single, creating a harmonious and compelling layer in the arrangement. Beyond being a party anthem, it is a nostalgic reminder of the carefree days of youth and the importance of enjoying life’s basic pleasures.
The track’s commercial success as it climbed the charts and became a popular anthem, particularly among youngsters, demonstrates its broad appeal. “Young, Wild & Free” invites listeners to relax, have fun, and enjoy the present moment, emphasising the transient aspect of time. Also, pre-debut BTS members J-Hope, Jimin, and Jungkook paid tribute to the song with a Korean rendition named “Graduation Day/Song,” proving its appeal across borders.
7. 24K Magic
Streams: 1.35 B
Album: 24K Magic
Bruno Mars’ “24K Magic” is an applause to the nostalgia of old-school funk and disco, with a modern twist. The song, which serves as the title track to his third studio album, is a vibrant celebration of enjoying life to the fullest, complete with addictive beats and Mars’ trademark smooth vocals. The words transport listeners to a world of grandeur, extravagant parties, and high-end experiences, with “24K Magic” representing Mars’ opulent lifestyle. The tune has a groovy bassline, funky guitar riffs, and a danceable rhythm, drawing inspiration from the ’80s and ’90s funk and R&B. Bruno Mars expertly captures the aura of famous singers like Prince and Michael Jackson, infusing the song with a nostalgic charm that nevertheless feels modern.
Following its release, “24K Magic” the song and the whole album quickly rose to the top of the global music charts, garnering success and receiving several award nominations. At the 60th Annual Grammy Awards, it won several important awards, including Record of the Year, and Best R&B Album.
8. Talking to the Moon
Streams: 1.23 B
Album: Doo-Wops & Hooligans
“Talking to the Moon” is a passionate ballad from Bruno Mars’ debut studio album, Doo-Wops & Hooligans. The song closely explores the universal subject of unrequited love and the emotional burden of distance. In this heartfelt song, the singer pours his heart out to the moon, a silent witness to his pain and longing.
The slow-tempo piano ballad provides an emotive atmosphere, allowing the emotional weight of the words to hit home with listeners. While “Talking to the Moon” did not enjoy the same commercial success as some of Mars’ more uplifting tracks, its emotional depth and relatable themes have garnered it a loyal following over time. Currently, it has become one of Bruno Mars’s best and most popular songs.
9. Leave The Door Open
Streams: 1.23 B
Album: An Evening with Silk Sonic
“Leave The Door Open” by Silk Sonic, is a powerful collaboration between Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak’s serenade is elegant and inviting, beckoning listeners to an evening of romance and soulful sensations. The song is rooted in the classic R&B sound of the golden era of soul music. Ornamented with lush orchestration, including a groovy bassline, melodic guitar riffs perfectly complement Bruno Mars and Anderson’s soulful vocals. The duo’s perfect vocal blend creates a compelling throwback mood. Lyrically, the song sends a sweet invitation to a potential love interest, allowing for the possibility of an intimate connection. The lyrics have seductive wordplay and a relaxed tone, which adds to the overall charm of the composition.
The song has received great recognition for its nostalgic vibe. It quickly climbed different music charts, achieving monetary success and setting the stage for increased anticipation of the entire Silk Sonic album.
10. Grenade
Streams: 1.20 B
Album: Doo-Wops & Hooligans
“Grenade” is a dramatic and expressive ballad that serves as Bruno Mars’ second single off his debut studio album. In this heartfelt song, Mars passionately portrays the depths of his feelings through metaphorical language, emphasising the immense sacrifices and anguish he would bear for the person he loves, symbolised by the act of catching a grenade. The song’s soulful ballad style, which incorporates pop and R&B influences, highlights Mars’ vocal range and emotional delivery, resulting in an emotional and memorable musical experience.
The track received critical acclaim due to its emotional intensity and Mars’ captivating vocal delivery. The song was commercially successful, topping global charts and earning Mars multiple award nominations. Its ongoing popularity has cemented “Grenade” as one of Bruno Mars’ signature songs and early hits, loved for its genuineness, compelling lyrics, and raw passion.
Some other Bruno Mars hits you should add to your playlist
11. Treasure
Streams: 935M
12. Wake Up in the Sky
Streams: 928M
13. Marry You
Streams: 906M
14. The Lazy Song
Streams: 878M
15. Finesse – Remix; feat. Cardi B
Streams: 765M
16. Versace on the Floor
Streams: 740M
17. It Will Rain
Streams: 738M
18. Billionaire (feat. Bruno Mars)
Streams: 613M
19. Count on Me
Streams: 609M
20. Nothin’ on You (feat. Bruno Mars)
Streams: 555M
(Main and featured image: brunomars/Instagram)
All numbers are accurate as of 1 February 2024
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What was Bruno Mars’ biggest hit?
Bruno Mars has multiple huge hits to his name, including “That’s What I Like”, “Marry You”, and “Just The Way You Are”.
Which song made Bruno Mars famous?
Bruno Mars’ debut song “Just The Way You Are” became a huge hit and solidified his status as a prominent artist in the music industry.
What is Bruno Mars’ most-streamed song?
“That’s What I Like” is the most-streamed Bruno Mars song on Spotify.
This article originally appeared on Prestige Online Hong Kong.
After graduating from Calcutta University, Pallabi started her writing career as a freelancer. "She's so pieces" is the phrase that describes her the best. Pallabi is another typical introvert who loves to hide behind written words. Music is her comfort language. Binge-watching and eating delicious foods is her favourite pastime.
