Bruno Mars and BLACKPINK’s ROSÉ opened up about the making of their global hit “APT.”, sharing behind-the-scenes stories, their creative chemistry, and even the song’s chances at the upcoming Grammy Awards. Their joint interview with Billboard highlights how the unexpected collaboration turned into one of the year’s most successful releases.
A Collaboration That Started With One Studio Meeting
The two artists first met last summer in Bruno Mars’ Los Angeles studio, arranged through Atlantic Records while ROSÉ was preparing her first solo album Rosie.
ROSÉ described the meeting as “my one chance to learn everything I could,” while Mars remembered her curiosity and drive.
Their connection quickly translated into music. Mars not only worked on “APT.” but also co-wrote and co-produced the album’s opening track “Number One Girl.”
“APT.” Becomes a Global Phenomenon
The track, released in October 2024 as a pre-release single, grew rapidly into one of the decade’s biggest pop-rock collaborations:
- Billboard Pop Airplay: First K-pop artist to hit No. 1
- Billboard Global (Excl. U.S.): 19 consecutive weeks at No. 1
- Billboard Global 200: Year-end No. 1
- Hot 100: Peaked at No. 3, charted for 45 weeks
- Worldwide streams: Over 4.9 billion streams
- MTV VMAs: First K-pop song to win Song of the Year
- Grammy nominations: Three categories including Record of the Year and Song of the Year
ROSÉ also became the first K-pop artist ever nominated in two major Grammy categories simultaneously.
How Korean Culture Inspired the Song
Mars said Korean culture was central to the creative process, describing ROSÉ’s influence as “magical.”
“ROSÉ didn’t just write a pop song,” he explained. “She showed me her culture—her world. Watching people respond to that was incredible.”
ROSÉ added that during the process, Mars showed “deep love and respect” for Korean culture and encouraged her to stay true to her artistic identity.
Behind the Scenes: Jokes That Became Music Video Ideas
Many of the music video concepts came from playful conversations between the two.
ROSÉ recalled taking Bruno’s jokes seriously at first, only to realize later that “every little detail came from the silly things we said.”
Mars laughed about buying a Korean flag and quirky props, saying the collaboration allowed him to step into a new cultural space.
Could “APT.” Win a Grammy?
As a multiple Grammy winner, Mars has experience with major categories like Record of the Year and Song of the Year.
His answer was humble—but revealing:
“It already feels like we’ve won. A tiny idea turned into something people love. Everything else is a bonus.”
ROSÉ jokingly responded, “That was a perfect answer. He’s so good at interviews.
How the Song Changed Their Careers
ROSÉ admitted she was initially afraid to release the track but soon realized its emotional power over listeners.
Mars emphasized that even listeners who don’t understand the lyrics “still feel something—and that is the job of an artist.”
They also confirmed that another unreleased collaboration exists, with the title currently kept secret.
A Historic Collaboration Still Growing
What began as a single meeting evolved into one of 2025’s most defining global hits.
“APT.” didn’t just dominate charts—it bridged cultures, expanded both artists’ global influence, and reshaped expectations for future K-pop and Western collaborations.
As the Grammys approach, the world waits to see whether this extraordinary partnership will make history once again.