
Bruno Mars has consistently pushed the boundaries of music by blending funk, soul, and pop. However, his current collaboration with rapper Sexy Red on the song “Fat Juicy and Wet” received mixed reactions from fans and reviewers. While some regard this as a bold move into edgier territory, others see it as a departure from Mars’ signature refined artistry.
According to USA Today, listeners were surprised by Bruno Mars’ collaboration with rapper Sexy Red on the track “Fat Juicy and Wet,” citing its explicit content and departure from his normal style. Many listeners expressed amazement on social media, with some asking whether Mars’ new direction is consistent with his typical smooth and refined sound. Others, however, commended the song’s boldness, seeing it as a demonstration of his versatility and determination to push artistic boundaries.
Lyric Stewart, a fourth-year vocal performance student at FAMU, admires Mars’ desire to explore, but believes the song’s sexual nature outweighs its musicianship. “Bruno Mars has always been about groove and soul,” Stewart explains. “This music feels more about shock value than artistry. I admire the creativity, but I believe it is straying away from what makes him Bruno.”
Frank Neblit, a third-year music industry scholar, believes the song demonstrates Mars’ ability to remain relevant in today’s music scene. “Music evolves, and artists need to adapt to stay in the conversation,” Neblit points out. “This song gets people talking, and in the music industry, that’s half the battle. It may not appeal to everyone, but it demonstrates Bruno’s ability to surprise us.”
“Fat Juicy and Wet” is a break from Mars’ signature love songs and funk-infused anthems. The frank lyrics and provocative themes indicate a desire to break free from previous traditions. However, the decision has turned off some old followers who appreciate his more traditional, soulful style.
As Mars continues to experiment with new sounds, the argument over his artistic progress highlights a larger conversation about striking a balance between innovation and being steadfast to one’s roots. It remains to be seen whether this shift will redefine his legacy or if it is simply a bold experiment.