ROSÉ and Bruno Mars’ “APT.” Leases the Penthouse for a Record-Extending 16th Week at No. 1 on the Billboard

The collaboration between BLACKPINK’s ROSÉ and Bruno Mars, “APT.,” has achieved an extraordinary feat in the music industry, maintaining its position at the top of the Billboard Global Excl. U.S. chart for an unprecedented 16th week.

This achievement is a record extension, setting the song apart as one of the longest-running No. 1 hits in the chart’s history. First making waves in November, “APT.” captured listeners with its smooth melodies and memorable vocals, creating an undeniable blend of ROSÉ’s delicate yet powerful voice and Mars’ signature retro-soul style.

“APT.” has defied expectations, remaining a dominant presence on the chart for months.

This longevity underscores not only the popularity of both artists but also the universal appeal of the song, which crosses musical and cultural boundaries. The combination of ROSÉ’s massive global influence, particularly in K-pop, and Bruno Mars’ established star power has created a synergy that has resonated with audiences worldwide.

Their partnership marks a blend of distinct musical styles, fusing contemporary pop and R&B with a nostalgic flair.

The Billboard Global Excl. U.S. chart tracks the performance of songs in regions around the world, excluding the United States, and this No. 1 reign showcases how the song has captivated audiences across continents.

Given the nature of global music consumption, this success is a testament to both artists’ international reach and the song’s broad appeal.

“APT.” has captivated listeners with its melancholic yet sweet production, which blends a sense of longing and intimacy.

While ROSÉ’s delicate vocals add an emotional depth to the track, Mars’ charismatic delivery adds an element of warmth and nostalgia.

Their voices complement each other perfectly, evoking a timeless atmosphere that draws listeners into the song’s narrative.

The instrumentation, which features a combination of smooth keyboard arrangements, soft percussion, and soulful guitar riffs, further accentuates the mood of the track.

The song, while modern in production, feels deeply rooted in classic R&B, allowing for a nostalgic listening experience while simultaneously appealing to contemporary tastes.

The track’s appeal is further amplified by the music video, which exudes luxury and romanticism, fitting the lyrics’ themes of love, escapism, and desire.

The song’s global appeal also hints at the growing influence of K-pop on international charts. With ROSÉ, a member of BLACKPINK—one of the most successful K-pop groups globally—the song continues to showcase the crossover potential of K-pop idols into mainstream Western music.

In combination with Bruno Mars’ established position in the global pop and R&B scene, this collaboration stands as a powerful representation of the blending of East and West in modern pop culture.

In other chart news, Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars’ collaboration “Die With a Smile” has earned its 10th week atop the Billboard Global 200 chart, maintaining its dominant position since it first reached No. 1 in September.

The song, which boasts a more stripped-back, introspective feel compared to “APT.,” continues to captivate listeners with its lyrical vulnerability and Mars’ soulful, emotive vocals.

“Die With a Smile” is characterized by its intimate storytelling, exploring themes of resilience, hope, and the acceptance of life’s challenges.

Lady Gaga, known for her dynamic vocal range and emotional depth, adds a layer of poignancy to the track, making it a favorite for listeners who appreciate raw, heartfelt music.

Mars’ production, which combines elements of R&B, pop, and jazz, gives the song a timeless quality, allowing it to resonate with a wide range of audiences.

The sustained success of “Die With a Smile” highlights the enduring appeal of both Gaga and Mars as individual artists and their ability to craft songs that connect with listeners on a deep emotional level.

Their collaboration stands out not just for its musical merit but also for the way it evokes a sense of catharsis and comfort, offering listeners a way to process difficult emotions while also celebrating the beauty of life.

The Billboard Global Excl. U.S. chart tracks songs based on their performance in countries around the world, excluding the U.S.

This chart has become an important indicator of global music trends, showcasing the songs and artists that resonate most outside of the American market.

“APT.”’s 16-week run at No. 1 illustrates the global power of collaborations between international artists, especially those that blend different cultural influences.

Meanwhile, the Billboard Global 200 chart is a reflection of the performance of songs worldwide, including the U.S., and is considered a major milestone for any artist to reach No. 1. The longevity of both “APT.” and “Die With a Smile” on these charts highlights the continued success of global collaborations and the increasing cross-pollination of genres across different musical scenes.

ROSÉ and Bruno Mars’ “APT.” and Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars’ “Die With a Smile” are two prime examples of the evolving nature of the global music industry, where collaborations between artists from different backgrounds and genres continue to shape the soundscape.

Both songs have captivated listeners worldwide, securing record-breaking runs on the Billboard Global charts and reinforcing the power of cross-cultural musical partnerships.

The continued success of both tracks speaks to the artists’ strong fan bases, the universal themes embedded in the music, and the ability of songs to transcend geographical boundaries. ROSÉ and Mars’ “APT.” further cements their places in global pop culture, while Lady Gaga and Mars’ “Die With a Smile” serves as a reminder of the emotional power of music in connecting people across the globe. As both songs continue their dominance, they reinforce the idea that music, in all its forms, has the power to unite and inspire listeners around the world.