Source: Jason LaVeris / Getty
When it comes to identifying pop juggernauts, Babyface knows a thing or two. The R&B legend received a much-deserved shout during Bruno Mars’ Album of The Year acceptance speech at the Grammys, and he had some big words for Bruno himself.
“I’m very proud of him and his accomplishments,” Babyface told Billboard. “I had the opportunity to go into the studio and work with and write with him, and I had so much respect for his work ethic ’cause it was very close to how I did it, and how I do it. I think he’s genius in his approach and one of the best entertainers we’ve had in a very, very long time. I consider Bruno in the same category with Prince and with Michael Jackson. He’s one of those guys who can actually stand with those artists, and there aren’t a lot of artists I can actually say that about and say it with confidence and feel like he would deserve to be on that same stage as them.”
Babyface also said that he was “humbled and honored” by the name-check, which also included New Jack Swing pioneers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, whose influence permeates throughout Mars’ Grammy-winning 24K Magic album. Mars even got the LaFace touch on the album’s final cut, “Too Good To Say Goodbye,” which he collaborated on with Babyface.
Billboard notes that Mars is one of only five R&B artists to win the Grammy for best album. He’s joined by deserving icons as Stevie Wonder, Quincy Jones, Natalie Cole, and Ray Charles.
What’s next for the reigning pop king? Mars stirred up some excitement about kicking up a final leg of his 24K Magic World Tour with his “Finesse Remix” partner in crime, Cardi B.
Will you cop tickets?
