Major Controversies Surrounding Bruno Mars: A Detailed Timeline

Controversies are a part of history. Explore the biggest scandals linked to Bruno Mars.

Bruno Mars (Peter Gene Hernandez) is an acclaimed American singer-songwriter, musician, and record producer celebrated for his dynamic live performances, retro showmanship, and impressive three-octave tenor vocal range. Accompanied by his band, the Hooligans, Mars is considered a pop icon. He began his career in Honolulu, gaining attention as a child Elvis Presley impersonator. He relocated to Los Angeles in 2003 to pursue a professional music career, eventually achieving global recognition for his musical talent and stage presence.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

2000: Copyright Registration Certificate Issued

In 2000, Demetrius Orlandus Proctor submitted a United States Copyright Office registration certificate issued for "Frisky Vol. 1 to 30 (Tapes)" as evidence in a copyright lawsuit.

September 19, 2010: Arrested for Cocaine Possession

On September 19, 2010, Bruno Mars was arrested in Las Vegas at the Hard Rock Casino for possession of cocaine, leading to legal consequences and a period of probation and community service.

March 31, 2011: Copyright Ownership Claimed

On March 31, 2011, Demetrius Orlandus Proctor claimed to own the copyright to the music and lyrics of "Billionaire".

January 28, 2014: Copyright Lawsuit Filed

On January 28, 2014, Demetrius Orlandus Proctor filed a lawsuit alleging copyright infringement for the McCoy and Mars song "Billionaire", claiming ownership of the song's music and lyrics since March 31, 2011.

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2015: "Oops Up Side Your Head" Similarities

In 2015, similarities between "Uptown Funk" by Ronson and Mars and "Oops Up Side Your Head" (1979) by the Gap Band led to the Gap Band members, keyboardist Rudolph Taylor, and producer Lonnie Simmons being added as co-writers of "Uptown Funk" and receiving publishing royalties.

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2017: Lastrada Entertainment Lawsuit

In 2017, Lastrada Entertainment filed a lawsuit against Ronson and Mars, alleging that "Uptown Funk" contained similarities to "More Bounce to the Ounce" (1980) by Zapp, seeking damages and a jury trial.

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2018: Cultural Appropriation Accusations

In 2018, Bruno Mars faced accusations of cultural appropriation on social media for allegedly using his racial ambiguity to profit from Black music, leading to public discussion and debate.

September 30, 2020: Copyright Lawsuit Dismissed

On September 30, 2020, the copyright lawsuit filed by Demetrius Orlandus Proctor regarding the song "Billionaire" was dismissed.

2021: Response to Cultural Appropriation Criticism

During a 2021 interview on The Breakfast Club, Bruno Mars responded to criticism about cultural appropriation by emphasizing his deep appreciation for and inspiration from Black artists like James Brown, Prince, and Michael Jackson, explaining that his music is born from love and respect for their contributions.

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March 2024: Reported Debt and Vegas Residency

In March 2024, reports surfaced suggesting that Bruno Mars was $50 million in debt due to gambling losses, potentially explaining his nine-year Vegas residency at Park MGM.