Cannonball with Wesley Morris Me and Bruno Mars — a Love Story
Jun 26, 2025
Niela Orr, a culture writer and critic, joins Wesley Morris to explore the complexities of loving Bruno Mars. They dive deep into his Grammy moments and the showmanship showcased during his Super Bowl performance. Orr dissects Mars’ evolving personas, especially in tracks like "Uptown Funk" and his homage in "24K Magic." The duo debates the authenticity of his art, questioning if it leans toward imitation, and ponder the implications of his appeal to diverse audiences. Their conversation illuminates the intricate dance between race, performance, and pop culture.
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Love And Unease Coexist
- Wesley Morris confesses a love for Bruno Mars while acknowledging discomfort with Bruno's adoption of Black musical styles.
- That tension frames the episode's inquiry into authenticity, persona, and cultural borrowing.
Grammys Performance That Crossed Generations
- Wesley recalls a 2011 Grammys moment where Bruno transformed "Grenade" into doo-wop that moved his mother.
- That performance exemplifies Bruno's gift for reinterpreting songs across Black musical traditions.
Uptown Funk Recast Bruno's Persona
- Uptown Funk introduced a new, strutting Bruno persona centered on masculine swagger and Black pop signifiers.
- That persona reshaped how listeners perceived Bruno's identity and artistic ambitions.
