The Beatles clearly did something right, and because so many musicians have tried to replicate their success in some way, shape, or form. However, nobody likes a copycat, especially Bruno Mars. Though, he actually once admitted that he tried to copy The Beatles’ nuanced and intricate style. However, luckily, he failed. As a result, he created something entirely original.
Videos by American Songwriter
Ironically, Bruno Mars tried to mimic The Beatles on his 2010 hit, “The Lazy Song”. Following the song’s 2010 release, Mars and his own creativity were able to help the single peak at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and peak at No. 5 on Canadian charts. Furthermore, Mars’ single helped his album, Doo-Wops & Hooligans, peak at No. 3 on the Billboard 200. Mars wouldn’t have acquired any of these accolades if he hadn’t tried and ultimately failed to replicate The Beatles.
How a Frustrated Bruno Mars Came up With “The Lazy Song”
Following the release of “The Lazy Song”, Bruno Mars sat down with the New York Daily News and divulged how frustration inspired him to write his smash hit.
“We were trying to make a song that was better than The Beatles,” Mars said. “We were trying to be magical and historic. After five hours, it all turned to rubbish.”
After those five hours, The Beatles had incidentally beaten Mars at his own game. And consequently, he was left defeated. He told the publication, “The frustration got to me and I said, ‘Today I don’t feel like doing anything at all.’”
Amidst this defeat was a silver lining, as Mars stated that the inability to copy The Beatles “opened up everyone’s eyes.”
So, Mars’ failed hard work led to a song about doing no hard work. It seems as though it’s this kind of attitude that breeds big hits. And to Mars, overthinking is a major pitfall in the creative process.
“When you’re overshooting, you get the worst work,” he said. “When you’re relaxed, you have your best work. I’m a light kind of guy.”
Bruno Mars’ “Lazy Song” and failed musical experiment teaches musicians two valuable lessons. First off, be yourself and never ever try and copy The Beatles, as that is an impossible task. And secondly, don’t overthink things, because good music is bound to come through simple feelings, not complex thoughts.
2018 Billboard Music Awards – Show via Getty Images
Leave a Reply
Only members can comment. Become a member. Already a member? Log in.