The inclusion of John Legend and Sam Smith in the title typically refers to popular or SoundCloud mashups.
The song serves as an "emotional gauntlet" where Mars reflects on a past relationship and the "selfish ways" that led to its end. He expresses deep regret for not doing the simple things—like buying flowers or holding her hand—and concludes with the selfless hope that her new partner provides the love he failed to give.
"When I Was Your Man" is a poignant piano ballad by Bruno Mars that explores themes of regret and heartbreak. While the song is originally a solo track from his 2012 album Unorthodox Jukebox , it has become a staple for fan-made mashups and "mix" lyric videos that feature other soulful vocalists like John Legend and Sam Smith. Release Date: December 3, 2012.
A stripped-back soul ballad featuring only Mars’s vocals and a piano. Lyrical Themes
These unofficial edits blend Mars’s vintage soul with John Legend's R&B style and Sam Smith's signature high-pitched vocals to create a multi-perspective take on the heartbreak.