BLACKPINK’s Rosé is back in the spotlight, and this time she’s teaming up with none other than pop superstar Bruno Mars. Their new single, “APT,” dropped today and fans are already buzzing. The surprise collaboration blends elements of pop-punk with the smooth, effortless vocal styles of both artists, creating a catchy track that promises to be a standout hit on the global charts.
In this post, we’ll dive into the origins of the song, how the collaboration came about, and what makes this track special. Plus, we’ll give you a sneak peek into Rosé’s highly anticipated solo album, Rosie, set to release later this year.
So, what’s behind the quirky title, “APT”? The song draws its inspiration from a Korean drinking game Rosé introduced to Bruno Mars during their time in the studio. Aptly titled after the game, “APT” (short for “apartment”) reflects both artists’ playful personalities and their cross-cultural exchange. Interestingly, throughout the track, both Rosé and Mars stick to the Korean pronunciation, “apateu” (아파트), honoring Rosé’s roots and adding a fun layer for their international audience.
Rosé, who has always been known for blending genres and pushing musical boundaries, took this opportunity to experiment with a more pop-punk sound, straying from her typical K-pop ballads. Bruno Mars’ funky, retro-infused pop style complements her perfectly, resulting in a song that’s both fresh and energetic.
n the lead-up to the release of “APT,” both artists had been teasing fans with playful banter on social media. Rosé posted Polaroids of the duo, sharing inside jokes about the night she introduced Mars to Korean drinking games. Mars responded with a cheeky caption, joking about how Rosé nearly tried to kiss him. This lighthearted back-and-forth built up even more anticipation for their fans.
The social media teasers are a reflection of the fun, easygoing vibe that carries over into the song itself. Their chemistry shines in the music, making “APT” not just a great tune, but a window into their dynamic studio sessions.
Rosé’s ability to balance her K-pop roots with global pop trends makes her one of the most versatile artists in today’s music scene. Collaborating with a legend like Bruno Mars only highlights her rising influence and her ability to cross borders musically. The excitement around “APT” isn’t just about this one song—it’s a taste of what’s to come in Rosie.