Just hearing the name “Bruno Mars” sparks a teenage squeal inside of all of us. It’s hard to deny the smooth voice and seductive dance moves of the popular heartthrob. Since his debut in 2010, Peter Gene Hernandez, a.k.a. Bruno Mars, has taken over pop music, and now he is about to take over Oklahoma.

Mars’ sound stands out among the dance music frequently played on mainstream radio. While electronic beats and synth tweaks rise in popularity, Mars brings back old-school charm and qualities to blend into his new-school style and sound. His music stretches beyond the category of pop, encompassing rock, doo-wop, funk, R&B, blues and even jazz. Musical influences of Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, Prince and Motown era are evident in his ability to create a wide range of songs – from upbeat singles to heartbreaking love songs.

It’s hard to believe that this Hawaii native has only released two studio albums. Doo-Wops & Hooligans brought us the platinum-selling sing-alongs “Just The Way You Are” and “Grenade.” Mars’ second studio album, Unorthodox Jukebox, takes his artistry to the next level. Released in December 2012, the album soared the charts with the first single “Locked Out of Heaven.” His current single, “Treasure,” sits at number eight on the Billboard Hot 100.

Mars produces hit after hit, and on Saturday, Aug. 10, anyone seated in the Chesapeake Energy Arena, 100 W. Reno Ave., in Oklahoma City will experience them live. His Moonshine Jungle World Tour promises good times, which shouldn’t be difficult to come by – Britain’s indie pop sweetheart Ellie Goulding opens the show as the night’s special guest.

Showtime is set for 8 p.m. Tickets start at $64 and can be purchased at the arena box office or by calling 800.745.3000. They are also available for online purchase at www.ticketmaster.com. Visit www.chesapeakearena.com for more about this show and about other events to come.

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