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The Unbreakable Beat: 7 Surprising Facts About Bruno Mars And His Brother, Eric "E-Panda" Hernandez

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Every global superstar has a secret weapon, and for Bruno Mars, that powerhouse is his older brother, Eric "E-Panda" Hernandez. As of late 2025, while Bruno Mars continues to dominate the charts with his solo work and the critically acclaimed Silk Sonic project, his brother remains the essential, driving rhythmic force behind every live performance. This deep dive uncovers the incredible, often-overlooked musical synergy between the two Hernandez brothers, revealing how their shared family history and professional bond have shaped the sound of a generation.

The relationship between Peter Gene Hernandez (Bruno Mars) and Eric Hernandez is far more than just a family connection; it is the foundation of the high-octane, retro-funk sound that defines The Hooligans. From their early days in Hawaii to headlining stadiums worldwide, Eric’s distinctive drumming style—a perfect blend of acoustic precision and electronic punch—is the heartbeat of the Bruno Mars experience. Understanding their dynamic is key to appreciating the authenticity and musical depth of the "24K Magic" era and beyond.

Eric "E-Panda" Hernandez: The Rhythmic Backbone of The Hooligans

The man behind the beat, Eric Hernandez, is a celebrated musician in his own right, known by his stage name, "E-Panda." His professional biography is a testament to a lifetime dedicated to rhythm, a journey that began long before his younger brother became a global icon.

  • Full Name: Eric Hernandez
  • Nickname/Stage Name: E-Panda
  • Relationship to Bruno Mars: Older Brother (Peter Gene Hernandez)
  • Date of Birth: 1976
  • Place of Birth: Brooklyn, New York
  • Role in The Hooligans: Drummer
  • Early Life: Started drumming at the age of four, growing up in a highly musical family in Hawaii.
  • Musical Influences: Draws heavily from R&B, Funk, Soul, and Gospel drumming styles.
  • Notable Projects: Drummer for The Hooligans (Bruno Mars's backing band) and a session musician.
  • Signature Gear: Has a signature snare drum with PDP by DW.

Eric's musical journey started in Hawaii, where the entire Hernandez family, including his four sisters (who formed the group The Lylas), was immersed in music. Their father, Peter Hernandez Sr., was a percussionist, and their mother, Bernadette San Pedro Bayot, was a singer. This environment of constant performance and practice forged Eric into the rhythmic powerhouse he is today.

1. The Unbroken Family Musical Legacy

The Hernandez family's musical roots are the bedrock of Bruno Mars’s success. Eric and Bruno grew up in a household where performance was a daily routine. This shared history means their musical communication is almost telepathic, a crucial element in the highly choreographed and tightly arranged live shows of The Hooligans.

The brothers’ synergy allows for spontaneous flourishes and impeccable timing that a typical drummer-artist relationship might lack. Eric’s drumming is not just about keeping time; it’s about providing the emotional and physical groove that Bruno’s funk and soul tracks demand, from the infectious energy of "Uptown Funk" to the smooth, retro beat of "Leave the Door Open."

2. E-Panda's Signature Drumming Style: The Funk-Soul Fusion

Eric "E-Panda" Hernandez is celebrated for his ability to seamlessly blend the raw feel of acoustic drumming with the precision of electronic sounds. His technique is a masterclass in modern funk and R&B drumming. He is not a flashy, over-the-top drummer, but a groove specialist whose pocket is deep and infectious.

A key aspect of his sound is his use of electronic drums and triggers in live shows, allowing him to reproduce the complex, layered studio sounds of hits like "24K Magic" and "Treasure." This blend ensures the live sound is massive, tight, and faithful to the record, which is a non-negotiable for an artist like Bruno Mars. His signature drum, the PDP by DW Eric Hernandez Signature Maple Snare Drum, reflects his preference for a crisp, high-attack sound that cuts through the mix.

3. The Hooligans: More Than Just a Backing Band

Eric Hernandez is not a hired hand; he is a core member of The Hooligans, a collective of musicians who have toured and recorded with Bruno Mars for over a decade. The band’s tight-knit nature, which includes members like Phredley Brown, Jamareo Artis, and James King, is a direct extension of the family atmosphere Bruno and Eric foster.

The Hooligans are renowned for their impeccable musicianship and showmanship, a quality Eric embodies at the center of the stage. Eric, in interviews, has noted the challenge and blessing of being an artist in a family of artists, using his unrelenting drive to make his mark within the group.

4. The Super Bowl and Global Stage Pressure

One of the most defining moments of Eric’s career was drumming for Bruno Mars during their iconic Super Bowl halftime performances (Super Bowl XLVIII and Super Bowl 50). Performing on a stage of that magnitude, with hundreds of millions watching, requires not just skill but nerves of steel.

Eric's rock-solid timing and powerful delivery during these high-stakes performances solidified his reputation as one of the best live drummers in the industry. These shows are a testament to the years of practice and the trust between the brothers, knowing that the rhythmic foundation will never falter under the brightest lights.

5. Eric’s Involvement in Bruno’s Studio Work

While Bruno Mars is heavily involved in the production of his music, Eric's contributions extend beyond the live stage. He is credited as the live drummer on various tracks, including the massive hit album 24K Magic. For instance, he is specifically listed as providing "live drums" on certain tracks, ensuring that the final studio version retains the authentic, human groove that characterizes their sound.

This collaboration highlights the importance of Eric’s feel; even in an age of programmed beats, Bruno often turns to his brother to lay down the organic, unquantized rhythm that gives his music its irresistible swagger. The 2024 vinyl re-release of XXIVK Magic continues to credit Eric, underscoring his enduring role in the album's legacy.

6. The Brotherly Dynamic: Boss and Bandmate

Eric has openly discussed the unique dynamic of working for his younger brother, who is also his boss. He describes the relationship with a refreshing honesty—it is challenging, but ultimately rewarding. The professional respect is immense, with Bruno himself calling Eric a "pretty good player" in a *Modern Drummer* interview, a subtle but high compliment from a fellow musician.

The dual role of family and bandmate means that while the professional standards are incredibly high, there is an underlying layer of unconditional support and shared history that makes their collaboration stronger than most in the music industry. They are a team forged by blood and rhythm.

7. The Future Beat: What's Next for E-Panda and Bruno Mars?

As Bruno Mars continues to tease future projects, potentially including a follow-up to the Grammy-winning Silk Sonic album with Anderson .Paak, Eric Hernandez will undoubtedly remain the man on the kit. While official tour dates for late 2025 and 2026 are always subject to change, any future major tour or album release will feature Eric's signature beat.

Eric's focus remains on maintaining the rhythmic integrity of Bruno Mars's music, a job that requires constant dedication to his craft and gear. His enduring presence is a promise to fans: as long as Bruno Mars is performing, the authentic, powerful, and funky beat of Eric "E-Panda" Hernandez will be the force driving the show. His legacy is not just as Bruno Mars’s brother, but as a world-class drummer whose groove is unforgettable.

bruno mars and brother
bruno mars and brother

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