That’s What I Like – Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars’s “That’s What I Like” is a vibrant and infectious song that showcases his mastery of catchy melodies, smooth vocals, and playful lyricism. Released on January 30, 2017, as part of his third studio album 24K Magic, the song quickly became a chart-topping hit and a fan favorite. Accompanied by a stylish and innovative music video, “That’s What I Like” not only solidified Bruno Mars’s status as a pop sensation but also highlighted his unique ability to blend contemporary R&B with retro influences, creating a sound that is both timeless and modern.
The Creation of “That’s What I Like”
Co-written by Bruno Mars himself along with Philip Lawrence, Christopher Brody Brown, James Fauntleroy, and Ray Charles McCullough II, “That’s What I Like” is a celebration of love, romance, and the finer things in life. The song features a catchy beat infused with elements of R&B, funk, and pop, showcasing Mars’s versatility as a singer-songwriter and performer. Its smooth production, characterized by a minimalist yet groove-laden rhythm, perfectly complements Mars’s effortless vocal delivery.
Themes and Lyrics
The lyrics of “That’s What I Like” are charmingly straightforward, detailing Bruno Mars’s desires to pamper and spoil his love interest with luxurious gifts and experiences. The song’s chorus succinctly captures its essence: “Lucky for you, that’s what I like, that’s what I like / Lucky for you, that’s what I like, that’s what I like.” Mars’s playful yet earnest delivery, combined with the infectious melody, creates an irresistible appeal that resonates with listeners of all ages.
The verses of the song expand on this theme, with Mars detailing various indulgences he wishes to lavish upon his partner, from trips to Paris and designer labels to fine dining and dancing. Each line is crafted with wit and charm, showcasing Mars’s ability to infuse his music with both romanticism and a sense of fun.
The Official Music Video
Directed by Bruno Mars and Jonathan Lia, the official music video for “That’s What I Like” is a visually striking and innovative piece that complements the song’s upbeat and playful vibe. The video features Mars dancing against a minimalist backdrop of animated graphics and colorful visuals, creating a dynamic and engaging visual experience. Mars’s charismatic presence and smooth dance moves further enhance the video’s appeal, showcasing his skills as a performer and entertainer.
One of the standout features of the music video is its use of animation to accentuate the song’s lyrics and rhythm. From animated dollar bills raining down during the line “Spend my money like money ain’t shit” to animated strawberries and champagne glasses during the line “Strawberry champagne on ice,” the video seamlessly integrates visual elements that mirror the song’s lyrical content.
Reception and Impact
“That’s What I Like” was met with widespread acclaim from both critics and audiences upon its release. The song topped the charts in multiple countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, and earned Bruno Mars several awards and nominations. Its infectious melody and catchy chorus contributed to its success on streaming platforms and radio airplay, solidifying its status as one of the standout tracks from the 24K Magic album.
The song’s impact extended beyond its chart performance, influencing popular culture and becoming a favorite for dance routines, lip-sync challenges, and social media trends. Its upbeat tempo and positive message of romance and generosity resonated with listeners worldwide, making it a staple in Bruno Mars’s repertoire and a defining song of his career.
Cultural Significance and Legacy
“That’s What I Like” reflects Bruno Mars’s ability to blend contemporary pop with classic R&B influences, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking. The song’s success reaffirmed Mars’s position as a leading figure in modern pop music and highlighted his talent for crafting infectious melodies and memorable lyrics. Its upbeat and positive message of love and extravagance struck a chord with audiences, making it a timeless addition to Mars’s discography.
For Bruno Mars, “That’s What I Like” represented a creative breakthrough and a departure from his previous musical offerings. Its success paved the way for subsequent singles and collaborations, further solidifying Mars’s reputation as a versatile and innovative artist in the music industry.
Conclusion
Bruno Mars’s “That’s What I Like” stands as a testament to his musical prowess and ability to craft songs that resonate with audiences on a global scale. With its infectious melody, playful lyrics, and stylish music video, the song captured the essence of romance and extravagance, showcasing Mars’s charisma and talent as a performer. As a standout track from the 24K Magic album, “That’s What I Like” continues to be celebrated for its timeless appeal and cultural impact, further cementing Bruno Mars’s legacy as one of the most influential artists of his generation.