Rosé Opens 2026 Grammys with Electrifying “APT” Performance Featuring Bruno Mars

Rosé made history at the 2026 Grammy Awards as the opening performer, setting a vibrant tone for music’s biggest night. The Australian-Korean singer, known for being a member of the famous K-pop group Blackpink, teamed up with Bruno Mars to perform the electrifying track “APT.” This moment marked her as the first solo artist from K-pop to take the stage at the Grammys.

Historic Performance of “APT”

During the performance, Rosé and Mars captivated the audience right from the start. As she began to belt out the opening lines, Mars energized the crowd with enthusiastic praises. Their collaboration on “APT” has made waves, as it draws inspiration from a popular Korean drinking game. Notably, Rosé co-wrote the song, which has significantly contributed to her rise as a solo artist.

Grammy Nominations and Achievements

• Rosé received three nominations at the 2026 Grammy Awards, marking her first time as a nominee.
• She received nods in prestigious categories, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year.
• Additionally, Rosé and Mars were nominated for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for “APT.”
• The award for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance went to Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande.

Reflecting on her journey, Rosé expressed in an earlier interview the significance of potentially making history at the Grammys. She emphasized the importance of the moment, not just for herself, but for her fans and the K-pop community. “It’ll just be a moment of celebration for everyone who believes,” she stated, showcasing her dedication to her craft and her supporters.

Previous Recognition

Rosé’s track record includes winning an MTV VMA Award last year, taking home the Song of the Year trophy for “APT.” This hit single remarkably spent 45 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100. Her debut album, titled Rosie, was released in December 2024 and debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 chart.

K-pop’s Mainstream Presence

The presence of Rosé and the K-pop act KPop Demon Hunters at the 2026 Grammys signifies a major milestone for K-pop in the United States. It reflects the genre’s growing popularity and acceptance in mainstream music. Rosé’s electrifying performance at the beginning of the show is a testament to how K-pop continues to establish its place in the global music scene.