Bruno Mars has consistently reinvented himself, delivering albums that embrace new sounds while still keeping his signature style intact. With 24k Magic, released in 2016, he once again charmed fans and critics alike with a blend of funk, R&B, and pure showmanship. This album marked his third studio project and has been hailed as an ode to retro sounds mixed with modern flair. Let’s dive into the track-by-track breakdown of this electrifying album, explore The Needle Drop review highlights, and understand why 24k Magic has cemented itself as a classic.
Album Overview: The Inspiration Behind 24k Magic
Bruno Mars created 24k Magic with the clear intention of bringing joy and movement back to music. After the success of his previous hits, Mars took a slightly different approach with this album, focusing heavily on a vintage, funk-driven sound inspired by the late ’70s and ’80s. He collaborated with producer Shampoo Press & Curl, channeling influences from artists like Prince, Michael Jackson, and the classic Motown era.
Released in November 2016, 24k Magic was an instant commercial success, reaching number two on the Billboard 200 and earning Mars multiple Grammy awards. The record’s high-energy, celebratory vibe allowed it to quickly dominate radio stations and playlists worldwide. However, The Needle Drop, a prominent online music review platform known for its critical analysis. Had much to say about this new direction in Mars’s music career.
Track-By-Track Breakdown of 24k Magic
1. “24k Magic”
The album opens with the title track, “24k Magic,” a funky anthem that sets the tone with shimmering synths, rhythmic beats, and Mars’s smooth vocals. It’s a party-ready track that blends the aesthetic of ’80s synth-funk with modern production, making it one of the standout tracks on the album. According to The Needle Drop, this song serves as both an homage to classic funk and an invitation to the party. A “timeless feel-good anthem with a flashy, irresistible hook.”
2. “Chunky”
Next up is “Chunky,” which Mars co-wrote with The Stereotypes and James Fauntleroy. It has a lighthearted, flirtatious feel that brings listeners back to the days of neon lights and disco balls. The groove-heavy bassline and laid-back melody add to its retro charm, and the lyrics praise independent, confident women. The Needle Drop praised the song’s rhythm and arrangement, noting that it “captures the spirit of the ‘80s in a way that feels nostalgic but fresh.”
3. “Perm”
With “Perm,” Mars takes it up a notch. This high-energy track mixes elements of rock and funk, encouraging listeners to “relax and let loose.” Featuring horns and guitar riffs reminiscent of James Brown, the song has a raw energy and infectious beat. The Needle Drop reviewer found “Perm” to be one of the more adventurous tracks. Describing it as “a powerhouse track that showcases Bruno Mars’s ability to command attention with sheer energy.”
4. “That’s What I Like”
A Grammy-winning track, “That’s What I Like” leans into smoother, sultry vibes. Mixing elements of hip-hop with funk and R&B, Mars shows his romantic side in this sensual track. Its catchy chorus and seamless production turned it into one of the most popular songs on the album, dominating charts and playlists. The Needle Drop gave special mention to the song’s lyrical cleverness and clean production. Calling it “a polished and sophisticated twist on modern love anthems.”
5. “Versace on the Floor”
“Versace on the Floor” is a slow, romantic ballad that highlights Mars’s vocal prowess and draws clear influence from Michael Jackson’s softer R&B hits. It’s filled with synthesizers, delicate piano chords, and a smooth melody that has the essence of classic ’80s ballads. The Needle Drop praised this track as “a romantic standout that manages to be both sensual and sophisticated, showcasing Bruno’s depth as an artist.”
6. “Straight Up & Down”
A mid-tempo groove, “Straight Up & Down” continues the romantic vibe, with Mars crooning about admiration and attraction. This track’s sound takes cues from classic R&B while still sounding current. According to The Needle Drop, it’s “a cleverly constructed track that showcases Mars’s vocal versatility.”
7. “Calling All My Lovelies”
“Calling All My Lovelies” is a fun, playful tune where Mars turns up the charm. The sound is smooth, with a touch of jazz and R&B influence. This song brings in a voicemail element, adding a comedic touch that keeps the album dynamic. The Needle Drop called it “a standout that plays with humor while staying musically engaging.”
8. “Finesse”
Arguably one of the most iconic tracks from the album, “Finesse” pays homage to the New Jack Swing era, with its upbeat, retro sound. It later received a remix featuring Cardi B, which catapulted the song to mainstream success. With a colorful music video and nostalgic beat, “Finesse” became a cultural hit. The Needle Drop described it as “an unapologetically fun track that showcases Mars’s passion for the music that inspired him.”
9. “Too Good to Say Goodbye”
Closing the album on a heartfelt note, “Too Good to Say Goodbye” is a soulful ballad about love and heartbreak. Co-written with Babyface, this track is filled with lush strings and emotional lyrics, showing Mars’s softer side. The Needle Drop praised it as “a beautiful conclusion that leaves listeners with an emotional, lasting impression.”
The Needle Drop’s Final Verdict
While 24k Magic has often been lauded for its nostalgic vibe and infectious energy, The Needle Drop offered a balanced view. The platform highlighted the strengths of the album, noting that Bruno Mars successfully blended classic sounds with modern production without sounding derivative. They appreciated Mars’s vocal range and charisma, especially on tracks like “Finesse” and “Versace on the Floor.”
However, some critics pointed out that the album occasionally leaned too heavily into its retro influences, sometimes coming across as an attempt to recreate past decades rather than push new boundaries. Despite this minor critique, The Needle Drop ultimately concluded that 24k Magic remains a testament to Mars’s love for funk, R&B, and soul, describing the album as “a near-perfect tribute to the golden age of funk and soul, brought to life with modern flair.”
Conclusion: Why 24k Magic Remains Timeless
24k Magic is more than just an album; it’s an experience. Through each track, Bruno Mars brings us on a journey through funk, soul, and pop, making it impossible not to move along to the beat. The album represents his dedication to his craft, his love for musical icons, and his desire to create an album that makes listeners feel good.
Whether you’re a fan of retro vibes or modern beats, 24k Magic has something for everyone. The Needle Drop captured it best by noting that Bruno Mars didn’t just drop an album—he brought a party, a love letter to a golden era in music, and a timeless soundtrack for fans old and new.
