Bruno Mars Collaborates with Mariachi Los Criollos on New Single

The fusion of pop and mariachi music highlights a growing trend of mainstream artists embracing Latin heritage.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Bruno Mars's recent collaboration with Mariachi Los Criollos de Guadalajara on his new single 'Risk It All' from the album The Romantic represents a significant shift in mainstream music. The partnership, described by the mariachi group as a moment of 'great pride,' highlights a growing trend of artists embracing and celebrating their Latin heritage, as well as a wider audience's increasing appetite for culturally rich sounds.

Why it matters

The success of 'Risk It All' comes amidst a surge in the popularity of Latin music globally. This collaboration sets a precedent for future cross-cultural musical endeavors, as artists increasingly recognize the value of blending genres and incorporating diverse musical traditions to meet audience demand for authenticity and representation.

The details

The album The Romantic demonstrates a deeper exploration of Mars's cultural roots, with tracks like 'Cha Cha Cha' drawing inspiration from Cuban rhythms and 'God Was Showing Off' opening with a Spanish phrase and featuring imagery of religious iconography central to Latin American culture. Even 'Something Serious' samples Carlos Santana's rendition of Tito Puente's 'Oye Cómo Va.' For Mariachi Los Criollos de Guadalajara, the collaboration represents a pivotal moment, allowing them to bring their musical roots from Guadalajara to Los Angeles recording locations.

  • The video for 'Risk It All' was filmed in March 2026 at locations including the Guardian Angel Catholic Church in Pacoima and private residences in Thousand Oaks and Hollywood.

The players

Bruno Mars

An American singer-songwriter and record producer known for his eclectic musical style that blends pop, R&B, funk, soul, reggae, hip hop, and rock.

Mariachi Los Criollos de Guadalajara

A mariachi group based in Southern California that has established a strong reputation within the Latin community, with around 150 five-star reviews online.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Seeing Mars 'embrace his culture latina...is a defense musical of our blood and of our identity.”

— Joel Jacques, Owner of Mariachi Los Criollos de Guadalajara (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

The collaboration between Bruno Mars and Mariachi Los Criollos de Guadalajara is expected to have a significant impact on the music industry, setting a precedent for future cross-cultural collaborations as artists continue to recognize the value of blending diverse musical traditions.

The takeaway

This collaboration highlights the growing trend of mainstream artists embracing their Latin heritage and the wider audience's increasing appetite for culturally rich sounds, signaling a shift in the music industry towards greater representation and authenticity.