Bruno Mars' hit song, "24K Magic" covers all the bases. Heavily influenced by the styles of the '70s and '80s, this is a retro funk, disco, RB sensation. There is something here for everyone, especially dance lines, and bands that are looking to grab some attention in the stands.
Discover MakeMusic Cloud: thousands of interactive titles your students can play along with today.
Bruno Mars brought infectious funk and polished pop sensibilities to the 2010s, drawing deeply from the grooves and production aesthetics of previous decades. His work demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of rhythm, arrangement, and ensemble musicianship that translates remarkably well to the marching arts.
Why we love this
This arrangement captures everything that makes the original irresistible while tailoring it for marching band instrumentation and visual possibilities. The groove sits squarely in Grade 3 territory without feeling dumbed down, and the funk foundation gives your visual team genuine rhythmic anchors to choreograph against. You get a crowd-pleasing hit that works just as hard on technique and precision as it does on audience engagement.
What to expect
Smooth, propulsive, and undeniably fun. The arrangement wraps itself around that warm '70s and '80s funk DNA while maintaining crisp marching band articulation; the result feels both nostalgic and current, inviting audiences to move along whether they're standing or seated.
Who it's for
Marching bands ready to program a modern pop hit that actually challenges their musicianship, particularly programs with visual specialists who thrive on choreographing contemporary grooves. Groups seeking repertoire that excites both the stands and the adjudication panel.
How to get the most out of it
Lock the kick drum and bass line together in the opening sections; this groove lives or dies on their partnership staying airtight.
Balance the horn textures so stabs read clearly against sustained backgrounds; the funk relies on punctuation.
Separate rehearsals for dance line and ensemble help the visual section internalize the pocket without competing for conductor attention.
Push the tempo slightly on playback to find the pocket that feels effortless; many groups undershoot the energy needed for this style.
How to use it
Build an entire show block around this as your opener or closer, pairing it with complementary pop or rock selections to establish a contemporary voice. The groove translates beautifully into stadium shows where crowd energy and band precision both matter equally.
Skills your students will build
Funk and disco groove interpretation
Subdividing and pocket playing within a syncopated ensemble
Balancing dynamic layers (stabs versus sustained voices)
Coordinating marching technique with syncopated rhythmic content
Maintaining precise articulation in repetitive, driving figures
You May Also Like
Scan to Complete Your Purchase
Use your phone's camera to scan the code below
You'll log in on your phone and the order will be added to your account
