Bruno Mars Releases New Single, Prepares for ‘SNL’ Performance

Bruno Mars has experienced a high level of success ever since his album Doo-Wops & Hooligans dropped in 2010. The album that launched singles “Just The Way You Are” and “Grenade” kept Mars a chart mainstay for nearly two years, and now the crooner put out a new single, in preparation for his upcoming release, and is preparing to appear on Saturday Night Live for a second time.

Released last week, the new track, titled “Locked Out of Heaven,” is Mars’ latest from his upcoming release Unorthodox Jukebox, which hits stores on December 11. If you have yet to hear it, listen to the track below:

Aside from the new music, Mars’ appearance on SNL was additionally announced within the same time period. Mars will return to the program on October 20, but this time, he is both the performer and the host. This will be Mars’ first time hosting the sketch comedy program.

Along with these recent announcements, Mars spoke about Unorthodox Jukebox. Until he began recording this effort, he indicated in an interview, his sound and tracks had been edited. In speaking about “It Will Rain,” his contribution to the Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1 soundtrack, he talked about the experience and final track, saying: "I felt like I was a mosquito singing. I don't want that to happen again."

Contrary to that effort, which came out about a year ago, Unorthodox has Mars in greater control. He said: "This album represents my freedom."