Born Peter Gene Hernandez in Honolulu, Hawaii, Bruno Mars is the genre-blending superstar known for his electrifying performances and timeless approach to pop, R&B, and funk. Raised in a musical family, he was performing on stage from a young age, developing a deep appreciation for classic artists and showmanship. Over the years, he has crafted a signature sound that draws from old-school influences while still feeling fresh and modern, making him one of the most versatile artists of his generation.
From writing and producing hits behind the scenes to dominating global charts as a solo artist, Bruno Mars has built a career defined by consistency, charisma, and musical excellence. Whether it’s smooth ballads or high-energy anthems, his attention to detail and commitment to performance set him apart. We caught up with Bruno Mars to talk about his musical roots, creative process, and what continues to inspire him as an artist. Read the feature below…
EQ: Hi Bruno, can you tell us a little about yourself and how you first got into music?
BM.: I grew up in Hawaii in a really musical family, so being on stage was normal for me from a young age. My parents had a band, and I was performing with them as a kid. It never felt like a career choice—it was just part of my life. Eventually I moved to Los Angeles to really pursue it and figure things out on a bigger scale.
EQ: Your sound pulls from so many different eras—who would you say has influenced you the most?
BM.: I’ve always been inspired by artists who were true performers. People like Michael Jackson and Prince set the bar for me. It’s not just about the music—it’s about the full experience. I grew up listening to a lot of funk, soul, and rock, so all of that naturally shows up in what I do.
“…it’s not just about the song, it’s about how you make people feel when they hear it.”
– Bruno Mars
EQ: You started as a songwriter and producer—what pushed you to step into the spotlight as an artist?
BM.: I was writing for other people for a while, and I loved it, but there were certain songs that felt too personal to give away. At some point, I realized if I wanted to tell my own story the way I heard it in my head, I had to step out front and do it myself.
EQ: Out of all your projects, is there a moment that really stands out to you?
BM.: There are a lot of highlights, but performing live always stands out the most. Whether it’s a big stage or a smaller crowd, that connection is everything. When the crowd is locked in with you, there’s nothing like it.
EQ: What have you been working on recently, and what can fans expect from you moving forward?
BM.: I’ve been in the studio, just taking my time and making sure everything feels right. I don’t like to rush music. Fans can expect something that still has that classic feel but also pushes things forward a bit.
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