How Rosé Discovered Her Musical Voice on ‘APT.’ — Thanks to Bruno Mars' Key Help

After an extended recording session in Los Angeles, Ros sought a lighthearted break. She introduced her collaborators, songwriters Omer Fedi and Amy Allen, to a Korean drinking game over late-night McDonalds. The game featured a chant that unexpectedly resurfaced the next day. Producer Cirkut recalls, She suddenly began repeating, Apateu, apateu. That was the spark we knew this had to become a song.

The result was APT., a Grammy-nominated track featuring Bruno Mars that merges languages, cultures, and musical styles reminiscent of Psys 2012 hit Gangnam Style. For Ros, the tracks acclaim was deeply affirming. It feels unreal because the song reflects so much of my heritage. It shows that by staying true to myself, I can still achieve global recognition and inspire audiences to sing and dance along, she shared.

Initially, the track almost didnt make it past the studio. I played it on loop until morning and then felt so emotional that I wanted everyone to delete it. But once people heard it, they couldnt stop thinking about it, Ros said. Producer Cirkut credits the songs immediate energy to Ross instinctive engagement: My main contribution was embracing the idea the moment it appeared. We developed the apateu hook together while I focused on crafting the beat. The upbeat, pop-punk inspired percussion and cheerleader-like vibe defined the songs atmosphere, also connecting to Ross Australian upbringing. It reminded me of the Aussie sporting chants you just want to shout it, even without understanding, she explained.

To complete the track, Atlantic Records senior VP of A&R, G Rouzbehani, suggested involving Bruno Mars. Ros admired Bruno Mars, so we introduced them in L.A. They clicked instantly. When I played him demos, APT. immediately stood out, Rouzbehani recalled. Mars joined in, rewriting the first verse, enhancing production, and elevating the tracks overall energy. The collaboration quickly became dynamic, with multiple studio revisions that impressed the entire team.

Cirkut emphasized Brunos impact on the track: He added live drums over my programmed beats and contributed bass lines. His vocals perfectly complemented Ross, confirming the songs potential.

For Ros, the song marked a turning point in her solo career. It still feels dreamlike. This record allowed me to fully express myself, and the gratitude I felt carried over into my debut solo album, Rosie. It captures my 20s, my independence, and my authentic emotions, she reflected. Despite the accolades, Grammy nods, and chart success, she remains focused on her future. Next year feels like a new chapter. I have many ideas and Im embracing them day by day. Im genuinely excited for life, she concluded.

Songwriters: Chae Young Park, Amy Allen, Christopher Brody Brown, Rogt Chahayed, Omer Fedi, Philip Lawrence, Bruno Mars, Theron Thomas, Henry Walter, Michael Chapman, Nicholas Chinn

Producers: Bruno Mars, Cirkut, Omer Fedi, Rogt Chahayed

Author: Chloe Ramirez