Bruno Mars is set to make a highly anticipated return with his new album, The Romantic, releasing this Friday, February 27. It has been a significant five years since his collaboration with Anderson .Paak in An Evening With Silk Sonic and a full decade since his last solo album, 24k Magic. Fans can expect a collection of nine tracks that aim to encapsulate the essence of love just in time for Valentine’s Month. The album kicks off with a hit already making waves on the charts—“I Just Might,” which has debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Unlike previous albums where Mars blended modern sounds with nostalgic influences, The Romantic leans more heavily into a straightforward tribute to the soul music of the ’70s and ’80s. The album features heartfelt homages to genres like Philly soul and quiet storm, while also incorporating elements of Latin rock. With inspiration drawn from iconic artists such as The O’Jays, Curtis Mayfield, and Santana, Mars crafts a project that pays respect to these musical legends while showcasing his own artistry.
Though some might overlook the brief nine-track listing, which includes only eight original songs after excluding “I Just Might,” Mars aims for quality over quantity. Given his track record as a pop powerhouse, listeners can expect each song to be significant in its own right. Billboard is set to weigh in on how the tracks stack up within Mars’ illustrious career. As fans eagerly await the drop, The Romantic promises to be a noteworthy addition to his discography, awakening nostalgia while reaffirming his status in the modern pop landscape.