Starting with a bang, Bruno Mars and big bad Rosé opened the 2026 Grammys. In a Prince-inspired outfit and a smoky background, the camera panned to reveal Marz holding his guitar. Performing the hit song, the two set the tone of the night with “APT.”
Bruno Mars Delivers Iconic Performance
From the all-black suit and bandana to the vocals, the kiss on the cheek, and the grand guitar solo, Mars reminded the Grammy stage and viewers at home that he has more tricks in his performance bag. The “24k Magic” artist only performed one song, but that was all he needed to create a moment.
Marz rocked Crypto Arena to hit song “APT.” Joined by Rosé from BlackPink was the right song choice to start the show, setting a high tone for the rest of the performers for the night.
Mars did not move much, but still brought high energy to the performance and let his partner shine. But he quickly stole the show, dimming the lights with his guitar solo and living out his “Purple Rain” moment.
Rosé’s Historic Grammy Moment
By joining Bruno Mars on stage, Rosé is the first solo K-pop artist to perform on the Grammy stage. Rosé is part of the K-pop group BlackPink but released a solo album, Rosie, in 2024. Rosé is nominated for three Grammy Awards in 2026.
Kendrick Lamar is another artist set to break another record if he wins more than three awards tonight: he will have the most Grammys as a rap artist.
Bruno Mars Sparks Tour Buzz
Surprisingly, Bruno Mars did not perform a song from his upcoming album, The Romantic, which is releasing Feb. 26. Later this year, the “Smoking Out The Window” artist will take the show on the road with “The Romantic Tour” in April. But if tonight’s performance is what to expect when he goes on tour, the tickets will sell out soon.
Unforgettable Performances Power at Grammys
Mars is currently not up for any awards tonight, but he may grace the stage again before the night is up. Other performers that shone on stage at tonight’s awards are Leon Thomas, Sabrina Carpenter, and Justin Bieber.
