Bruno Mars: The Soul of 2026 Record Store Day

Bruno Mars Takes Center Stage

It's official—Bruno Mars has been named the ambassador for the 2026 Record Store Day. With this appointment, he promises to inject new energy into an event cherished by music lovers around the globe.

A Year of Anticipation

As we step into 2026, the excitement for Mars is palpable! Following a decade-long wait, he is set to release his much-anticipated fourth studio album, The Romantic, and it's bound to create waves in the music scene.

Record Store Day: A Musical Celebration

April 18 marks this year's Record Store Day, a celebration that pays homage to independent record shops and the vinyl culture that continues to thrive despite the digital age. Mars understands the importance of these spaces, emphasizing his profound connection to them.

“You get the chance to immerse yourself, surround yourself with music,” Mars said in a reflective video shot at Las Vegas' Moondog Records shop. “Not just staring at your phone but to actually see all of this beautiful art around you.”

'The Collaborations': A Compilation of Magic

One of the highlights of this year's Record Store Day will be the release of The Collaborations, a compilation album celebrating Mars's standout collaborations. This album will feature beloved tracks such as “Uptown Funk” with Mark Ronson and “Die With A Smile” alongside Lady Gaga. It's a collection that showcases not just his talent but the unity music can foster.

Listening Parties Nationwide

Before the festivities of Record Store Day, on February 25, Mars is partnering with over 200 record stores across the U.S. to host listening parties for The Romantic. For those who are eager to join in on this romantic journey, a list of participating stores can be found at recordstoreday.com.

Contextualizing Creativity

The announcement of Mars's role as ambassador is more than mere marketing. It's about community, about recognizing the sweat and passion that goes into curating these musical spaces. As Michael Kurtz, co-founder of Record Store Day, aptly notes:

“Bruno has done a similar thing throughout his life and career, working across different genres, with his wide range of projects and collaborators, all for the love of music.”

Why Bruno Matters

Bruno Mars embodies the modern spirit of music—he transcends genres and connects with his audience through genuine artistry. As we gear up for Record Store Day, it's crucial to celebrate not only the artists but also the spaces that foster musical creativity and exploration.

A Forward Look

With the rise of digital streaming, it's easy to forget the tangible joy of visiting a record store—flipping through vinyl, discovering gems, and experiencing that electric thrill when music comes alive in a physical space. Mars's embrace of this culture speaks volumes about where music is heading while honoring its roots.

The Heart of Music

As fans await the release of new material alongside this year's Record Store Day, we're reminded that music is best experienced in community, surrounded by fellow enthusiasts who share our passion. So, grab your friends, visit your local record store, and celebrate not just the sounds we love but the stories behind them. Bruno Mars, in his ambassadorial role, is leading the charge in making sure these connections endure.