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Early Life and Musical Roots

Born Peter Gene Hernandez on October 8, 1985, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Bruno Mars was immersed in music from childhood. His Puerto Rican-Jewish father was a percussionist, while his Filipino mother was a hula dancer and vocalist. Mars began performing at age four in his family's band, The Love Notes, mastering Elvis Presley impersonations that earned him the nickname 'Little Elvis.' This multicultural upbringing shaped his signature blend of reggae, rock, R&B, and soul.

Breakthrough and Solo Stardom

After moving to Los Angeles at 17, Mars initially wrote hits for artists like Flo Rida ('Right Round') and Travie McCoy ('Billionaire'). His 2010 debut album 'Doo-Wops & Hooligans' launched him to superstardom with chart-toppers 'Just the Way You Are' and 'Grenade.' Subsequent albums 'Unorthodox Jukebox' (2012) and '24K Magic' (2016) solidified his status, earning multiple Grammys and record-breaking global tours featuring his electrifying stage presence.

Silk Sonic Collaboration

In 2021, Mars joined forces with Anderson .Paak to form Silk Sonic. Their debut album 'An Evening with Silk Sonic' paid homage to 1970s R&B and funk, featuring the Grammy-winning smash 'Leave the Door Open.' The duo intentionally kept their live band anonymous, creating mystique around their retro-inspired performances. Silk Sonic represents Mars' dedication to reviving classic sounds while showcasing his versatility beyond solo work.

Musical Style and Legacy

Mars' music fuses pop, reggae, soul, and funk with modern production. Known for his four-octave vocal range and dynamic showmanship, he's performed at two Super Bowl Halftime shows (2014, 2016). His songwriting often explores love and romance with playful lyricism. As a producer, he's collaborated with Adele, Mark Ronson, and Cardi B. Mars has won 15 Grammys and holds Billboard records for longest-charting singles.

Explore Bruno Mars' sheet music below to study his iconic compositions.

• Mars narrowly avoided prison in 2010 for cocaine possession; his community service and rehabilitation became a turning point in his career
• He dated model Jessica Caban for 12 years before secretly welcoming their first child in 2021, fiercely guarding his private life
• His stage name originated from childhood: 'Bruno' was given by his father due to his resemblance to wrestler Bruno Sammartino, and 'Mars' was added later as he seemed 'out of this world'