When I Was Your Man

About this song

The song is by American singer-songwriter Bruno Mars and appears on his second studio album, Unorthodox Jukebox (2012). It was written by Mars, Philip Lawrence, Ari Levine and Andrew Wyatt, with production handled by The Smeezingtons. It was released as the third promotional single from the album and as the second official single.

What it's about

A soul piano ballad about regretting a girl he let get away before he became famous. He sincerely hopes her new partner gives her the love and attention he couldn't or wouldn't offer when they were together. Critics praised Mars' vocals and called it a vulnerable and emotional ballad.

Fun facts

• Samples “You Never Give Me Your Money by The Beatles”.
• Sampled in 3 other songs, like “Tear Me Down by Andon Ricci”.
• Covered 25 times, including “When I was your man (Cover) by Lil Woodryc”.
• Written by Bruno Mars, Ari Levine, Philip Lawrence and Andrew Wyatt.
• Produced by The Smeezingtons.