I’m often asked how many Grammys Bruno Mars has, especially whenever award season comes around or he delivers another unforgettable performance. As of 2026, Bruno Mars has won 16 Grammy Awards from 36 nominations, placing him firmly among the most decorated and respected artists of his generation.
What makes this achievement stand out isn’t just the number itself, but the variety of genres, eras, and collaborations those wins represent. From pop and R&B to funk and soul, Bruno Mars has consistently shaped mainstream music while maintaining critical acclaim.
Key takeaways at a glance:
- 16 Grammy wins and 36 nominations as of 2026
- Multiple career-defining Grammy moments since 2011
- Two headline-making performances at the 2026 Grammy Awards
This article explores not just the numbers, but the story behind them.
Who Is Bruno Mars?
Bruno Mars, born Peter Gene Hernandez on 8 October 1985 in Honolulu, Hawaii, is an American singer-songwriter, record producer, and dancer. Widely regarded as a modern pop icon, he is known for his three-octave tenor vocal range, dynamic live performances, and unmistakable retro-inspired showmanship.
Raised in a musical family, Mars was exposed to diverse genres from an early age, including rock, reggae, soul, and Motown. This eclectic upbringing shaped his musical versatility, which later became one of his defining traits. Standing at 1.65 metres tall, Mars may not dominate the stage physically, but his presence and charisma more than compensate.
He performs alongside his backing band, The Hooligans, and is also a member of the Grammy-winning duo Silk Sonic, formed with Anderson .Paak in 2021. His parents, Bernadette San Pedro Bayot and Peter Hernandez, played a significant role in nurturing his artistic ambitions.
Today, Bruno Mars is recognised not just as a hitmaker, but as a complete entertainer whose influence stretches far beyond chart positions.
How Did Bruno Mars Rise to Grammy-Level Fame?
Bruno Mars’ rise to stardom wasn’t overnight. Before stepping into the spotlight, he worked behind the scenes as a songwriter and producer, contributing to tracks for other artists. This background gave him a deep understanding of song structure, melody, and performance.
His solo breakthrough arrived in 2010 with “Just the Way You Are,” a song that immediately resonated worldwide. It was followed by a string of hits such as “Grenade,” “Locked Out of Heaven,” and “When I Was Your Man.” These songs didn’t just perform well commercially; they established Mars as an artist capable of emotional depth and vocal excellence.
By the time award recognition followed, it felt earned rather than manufactured. The Grammys quickly took notice of his consistent quality, originality, and ability to perform live without relying on studio effects.
How Many Grammys Has Bruno Mars Won to Date?
As of 2026, Bruno Mars has won 16 Grammy Awards and has been nominated 36 times. His wins span major categories, including Song of the Year, Record of the Year, and Album of the Year, a rare achievement even among elite artists.
Bruno Mars’ Grammy Awards Overview
| Award Type | Wins | Nominations |
| Grammy Awards | 16 | 36 |
| Daytime Emmy Awards | 0 | 1 |
| Primetime Emmy Awards | 0 | 2 |
What stands out is the consistency of his nominations across different phases of his career, from solo pop hits to collaborative projects.
What Are Bruno Mars’ Most Iconic Grammy-Winning Songs?
When it comes to award-winning tracks, Bruno Mars has several Grammy-defining anthems. “24K Magic” was a runaway success, bagging multiple awards including Album of the Year. “That’s What I Like” followed suit, showcasing his ability to deliver smooth R&B with a modern twist.
Then came “Leave the Door Open”, a sultry Silk Sonic collaboration with Anderson .Paak that brought home four Grammys in a single night, a rare feat in today’s competitive music scene.
One industry insider once said:
“Bruno doesn’t just sing hits; he performs moments — and the Grammys love moments.”
That sentiment rings true across his catalogue, where genre-bending and vintage flair meet contemporary production.
What Happened at the 2026 Grammy Awards?
The 68th Grammy Awards, held in Los Angeles, were a high-profile night for Bruno Mars, even though he didn’t leave with a new trophy. He entered the ceremony with three major nominations for his genre-blending duet “APT.” with Rosé, earning recognition in some of the most competitive categories of the night.
Key highlights included:
- Nominations for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance
- Wins in major categories going to Kendrick Lamar and Billie Eilish
- Bad Bunny securing Album of the Year
While Mars didn’t add to his Grammy total, his appearance and performances were among the most talked-about moments of the night. The ceremony reinforced his status as a standout performer whose impact extends beyond award wins.
How Did Bruno Mars Perform at the 2026 Grammys?
Bruno Mars delivered two standout performances at the 2026 Grammy Awards, each highlighting a different side of his artistry, one rooted in classic soul, the other pushing modern, global pop boundaries.
What Was Special About His Solo Performance?
Bruno’s solo performance of his new single “I Just Might” was one of the most visually and musically refined moments of the night. Wearing a vibrant red three-piece suit with a flared-collar shirt, he leaned fully into his signature retro aesthetic, delivering a Philly soul–inspired set that felt like a tribute to the 1970s.
Key elements that stood out included:
- A live horn section and full rhythm band
- A stripped-back stage focused on musicianship
- A clear preview of the sound direction for his upcoming album, The Romantic
The performance wasn’t flashy; it was confident, timeless, and authentic, standing out against more heavily produced acts.
How Did He and Rosé Open the Night?
The opening performance of “APT.” with Rosé set the tone for the ceremony. Blending punk-pop energy with classic rock elements, the performance featured Mars on guitar alongside Rosé’s commanding vocals.
Notable highlights included:
- Rosé becoming the first solo K-pop artist to perform at the Grammys
- A genre-blending collaboration that brought global fanbases together
- Widely praised on-stage chemistry
Critics and fans alike cited the performance as one of the most innovative Grammy openers in recent years.
How Has Bruno Mars’ Grammy Journey Evolved Since 2011?
Bruno Mars’ journey with the Grammy Awards began over a decade ago, and it’s been a masterclass in reinvention and longevity. From his early days as a fresh-faced performer to becoming one of the show’s most anticipated acts, his evolution reflects true artistic growth.
Key Grammy Milestones in Bruno Mars’ Career:
| Year | Milestone | Outcome |
| 2011 | Grammy performance debut | Industry breakthrough |
| 2018 | 24K Magic era | Swept Album, Song & Record of the Year |
| 2022 | Silk Sonic success | 4 Grammy wins with Anderson .Paak |
| 2026 | APT. nominations | 3 major nods, two live performances, no wins |
“Bruno’s Grammy timeline reads like a story of how pop music can evolve without losing its soul.”
Through each phase, Bruno has pushed boundaries while remaining authentic, proving that staying relevant isn’t about chasing trends, but about setting them.
What Is Bruno Mars Working on After the 2026 Grammy Awards?
Even without a 2026 win, Mars is moving full steam ahead. His next album, The Romantic, is one of the most anticipated releases of the year. Scheduled to drop on 27 February 2026, it’s expected to return to the soulful and emotional storytelling that defined earlier hits, while experimenting with even more vintage textures.
This is his first full-length solo project since 24K Magic in 2016, making it a milestone in his career. The lead single, “I Just Might,” has already generated buzz and critical praise for its throwback vibe.
Additionally, Mars has announced:
- A global stadium tour kicking off this spring
- A compilation album titled The Collaborations, celebrating his best musical partnerships
- His role as the Record Store Day Ambassador for 2026, further aligning him with both retro culture and modern artistry
Clearly, 2026 marks not a pause, but a major creative resurgence.
How Does Bruno Mars Compare to Other Grammy-Winning Artists?
In terms of Grammy recognition, Bruno Mars remains firmly in the top tier, even in years when he doesn’t take home a trophy. As of 2026, his 16 Grammy wins place him among the most consistently awarded mainstream artists of the modern era.
At the 2026 ceremony, Kendrick Lamar led the night with five wins, including Record of the Year, while Bad Bunny secured Album of the Year, an honour Mars himself previously won for 24K Magic. While annual results vary, Mars’ strength lies in longevity and versatility rather than single-year dominance.
Grammy Comparison:
| Artist | Total Grammy Wins (as of 2026) | Notable Strength |
| Bruno Mars | 16 | Cross-genre success, live performance |
| Kendrick Lamar | 17+ | Lyrical impact, critical acclaim |
| Bad Bunny | 5+ | Global reach, cultural influence |
| Billie Eilish | 9+ | Contemporary pop innovation |
What sets Mars apart is the balance between studio excellence and live performance credibility. Few artists maintain that dual reputation across multiple musical eras, which keeps him consistently ranked among the most respected Grammy-winning performers.
Why Does Bruno Mars Continue to Be a Grammy Favourite?
Bruno Mars continues to resonate with Grammy voters because his success is built on more than hit singles or short-term trends. His work consistently balances mainstream appeal with musical credibility, allowing him to remain relevant across changing industry landscapes.
Rather than repeating a formula, Mars evolves with each project while maintaining a clear artistic identity.
Key reasons behind his continued Grammy appeal
- Seamless blending of pop, R&B, funk, soul, and retro influences
- Ability to adapt his sound without losing authenticity
- Strong appeal across multiple Grammy categories
- Consistent critical and commercial performance
Beyond his recordings, live performances play a major role in his recognition. Mars is known for singing live, playing instruments, and leading tightly rehearsed yet energetic band performances that feel timeless rather than overproduced. This level of craftsmanship reinforces his reputation as a complete performer.
What Can We Expect from Bruno Mars in the Years Ahead?
Looking ahead, there’s plenty on the horizon. The Romantic is just the beginning of what promises to be a defining era for Bruno Mars. If the album is anything like its lead single, fans can expect timeless songwriting and deep soul influences that appeal across generations.
The global tour is also set to be one of the year’s most talked-about live events. With a reputation for show-stopping performances, Mars is expected to blend new material with past hits in ways only he can deliver.
Then there’s The Collaborations, a retrospective that reminds listeners just how much he’s contributed to other artists’ success, and how much they’ve influenced his own.
Even after more than a decade at the top, Bruno Mars continues to reinvent himself. With passion, polish, and that unmistakable swagger, his story is far from over.
Conclusion
Bruno Mars’ Grammy journey reflects not only his immense talent but also his dedication to musical excellence and evolution. With 16 Grammy wins as of 2026, he continues to shape the sound of modern pop, R&B, and soul. His performances remain unforgettable, his collaborations impactful, and his influence undeniable.
As he prepares to release The Romantic and return to the global stage, it’s clear that Bruno’s legacy is still unfolding. The story behind how many Grammys does Bruno Mars have is one of artistry, passion, and enduring relevance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bruno Mars and the Grammys
What Is Bruno Mars’ First Grammy Award?
He won Best Male Pop Vocal Performance in 2011 for “Just the Way You Are.”
Has Bruno Mars Ever Won Album of the Year?
Yes, for 24K Magic in 2018.
How Many Grammys Has Bruno Mars Won With Silk Sonic?
Silk Sonic earned four Grammy Awards in 2022.
What Is Bruno Mars’ Most Awarded Album?
24K Magic remains his most decorated project.
Did Bruno Mars Win Any Grammys in 2026?
No, he was nominated three times but did not win.
Has Bruno Mars Collaborated With K-pop Artists?
Yes, most notably with Rosé on “APT.”
Which Genre Has Brought Bruno Mars the Most Grammys?
R&B and pop have accounted for most of his Grammy wins.
