Bruno Mars has released “I Just Might,” his first new solo single in nearly a decade, marking a significant return for the Grammy-winning artist. The track dropped as part of Billboard’s Friday Music Guide, which highlighted the week’s must-hear releases alongside new music from Zach Bryan, The Kid LAROI, and others.
The release comes more than nine years after Mars’ last solo album, 2016’s “24K Magic,” which spawned hits like “That’s What I Like” and the title track. During his extended break from solo work, Mars has maintained his presence in the music industry through collaborations and performances, but fans have eagerly awaited new material from the pop superstar.
According to Stereogum’s review, the new track stays true to Mars’ signature sound, with the publication noting that “the new Bruno Mars sounds like a new Bruno Mars song.” The review also described Mars as “an A-list pop superstar who evidently has nothing to say,” suggesting the song prioritizes musical style over lyrical depth.
The release strategy appears to follow Mars’ typical approach of surprise drops, with the song appearing on major streaming platforms without extensive advance promotion. Billboard’s inclusion of the track in their weekly music guide indicates industry recognition of Mars’ continued relevance despite his lengthy hiatus from solo releases.
Mars, who has strong ties to Southern California’s music scene, has been a staple of Los Angeles venues and award shows throughout his career. His return to new music comes as fans speculate about a potential album release, though no official announcement has been made regarding a full-length project.
The single’s release positions Mars alongside other major artists dropping new music this week, demonstrating his ability to command attention in a crowded marketplace even after years away from solo releases.
ref: 3522