If you've ever studied much about pop culture from the 30's and 40's , you know it was filled with the big band sound of swing, the Lindy Hoppers of the one and only Savoy Ballroom, and, most importantly, those hunky crooners like Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, and Dean Martin. The sensation of handsome men singing all the right notes came to fruition long before The Backstreet Boys and *NSYNC. Thanks to artists like Bruno Mars, the styles of all these dreamy predecessors are still being honored today.
The list goes on and on, but here are eight reasons why Bruno Mars is doing it right:
1. He knows how to give compliments.
My first major memory of hearing Bruno Mars came freshman year of high school when he told me (and millions of other girls) that I'm perfect just the way I am. "Just the Way You Are" will forever make girls of our generation "Aww" when it comes on the radio. He knows what the ladies want to hear, which is Step 1 of project Be A Dreamy Male Superstar.
2. He's on Elvis Presley's level.
Since Bruno has been around, he's had five number one singles top the Billboard Hot 100 Chart. The only male artist to ever do this before him was Elvis Presley. But Bruno doesn't stop there with his Elvis similarities. He grew up in Hawaii and was known in several areas of the island as "Little Elvis," impersonating the King of Rock n' Roll from a very young age. Clearly, he was born to be a star.
3. Boy's got style.
Fedoras, fedoras, and more fedoras. He can be retro. He can be hip-hop. He can be nerdy chic. Mars incorporates every decade not only into his music, but also into his wardrobe. His only fault may be being a little too fab.
4. Because the Hooligans.
Every hero needs a sidekick. In Bruno's case, he's got eight. The Hooligans are Mars' band, bringing the big band sound from long ago back into the spotlight. In addition to backup vocals, guitar, bass, drums, and keyboard, The Hooligans come with a full horns section for that brassy sound we all know and love.
5. That Pandora SNL Skit from 2012.
Pandora Headquarters is having technical difficulties. They're losing the vocals on multiple stations. But never fear! Intern Devon (Bruno, of course) sweeps in to save the day. He brings vocal impersonations to an entirely new level. He's full of finesse and his MJ will make you think the King of Pop himself is back from the dead.
6. Is there an instrument he doesn't play?
The Hooligans are top-notch. But what's even more top-notch is that Bruno could likely do his music equal justice as a one-man show. From drums to guitar to harmonica to beat-boxing master, his musical ability is expansive.
7. His list of hits is endless.
I can't speak for everyone, but most days the simplest key to my heart is a catchy tune with a good beat. Bruno gives us all that and more. Surprisingly poetic and groovy as all get out, he's produced some positively toe-tapping hit songs. We melt to puddles at his feet as he croons "When I Was Your Man." Any one of us is willing to be his gal.
8. Because "Uptown Funk"
Bruno (along with Mark Ronson) is bringing funk back. James Brown would be proud. Every single one of my study breaks during final breaks consisted of an "Uptown Funk" dance party. It's the grooviest thing I've heard since MJ. Just try to listen to it and not dance, I dare you.
The definition of heartthrob is constantly changing. Bruno Mars is the embodiment of charm, talent, and sophistication, the perfect ingredients for a truly timeless MJ-Sinatra-Elvis hybrid.
Energetic dance performance under the spotlight.
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Taylor Swift shines on stage in a sparkling outfit and boots.
Taylor Swift and Phoebe Bridgers sharing a joyful duet on stage.
