An Evening With Silk Sonic: Everything We Know About Bruno Mars & Anderson .Paak’s Highly Anticipated Album
After the sensational debut of “Leave The Door Open” captivated audiences worldwide, the excitement for Silk Sonic’s full-length album has reached a fever pitch. This dynamic duo, comprised of multi-Grammy winner Bruno Mars and the equally talented Anderson .Paak, promised a journey back to the golden era of R&B and funk, and fans are eagerly awaiting their sonic invitation. Here’s an in-depth look at what we know about An Evening With Silk Sonic, from its creation and sound to its release and featured artists.
The musical landscape was instantly electrified when Bruno Mars made a concise yet impactful announcement on February 25th: “We locked in and made an album. The band’s called Silk Sonic. First song drops next Friday, 3/5.” This simple message, accompanied by striking album artwork featuring Mars and .Paak, and the intriguing promise of “special guest host Bootsy Collins,” set the stage for a retro 70s revival. The first single, “Leave The Door Open,” delivered precisely that. This smooth, slow-burning R&B jam was met with overwhelming critical acclaim and commercial success. Consequence lauded Bruno’s “voice like a liquid whip” and Anderson’s ability to “rap and sing through a foggy haze,” likening the overall sound to “smoke on the water.” The Guardian described it as an “impeccable” track, carefully positioned on “the right side of pastiche.” The song’s undeniable appeal propelled it to the coveted No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100, a significant achievement after its initial debut at No. 4.
For devoted fans of Bruno Mars, “Leave The Door Open” signaled the end of a noticeable two-year hiatus from the “Uptown Funk” superstar. Prior to this Silk Sonic single, Mars’ most recent vocal contribution was on “Blow,” a collaboration with Ed Sheeran and Chris Stapleton, released in July 2019 as part of Ed’s No. 6 Collaborations Project. While it garnered mixed reviews, it subtly marked the beginning of Bruno’s two-year absence from releasing solo or lead artist material. Before “Blow,” Mars had a highly successful collaboration with Cardi B on the track “Please Me,” which outperformed the Sheeran collab both commercially and critically. In addition to his charting hits, Bruno also lent his musical talents to the Trolls World Tour soundtrack, joining a star-studded cast including Justin Timberlake and others. This period of quiet only heightened the anticipation for his return, making the emergence of Silk Sonic an even more momentous event.
The upcoming Silk Sonic album marks Bruno Mars’ fourth studio album overall, following a remarkable solo career that has cemented his status as a global pop icon. His debut album, Doo-Wops & Hooligans, released on Elektra/Atlantic Records on October 4, 2010, was an instant success. It achieved Platinum certification seven times over by the RIAA and featured a string of massive hits, including the heartfelt ballad “Just The Way You Are,” the dramatic “Grenade,” and the effortlessly catchy “The Lazy Song.” His sophomore effort, 2012’s Unorthodox Jukebox, also on Atlantic, continued his chart dominance with singles like the high-energy “Locked Out Of Heaven” and the poignant “When I Was Your Man.” Between the release of Unorthodox Jukebox and his third solo album, Mars collaborated with renowned producer Mark Ronson on the monumental hit “Uptown Funk.” This track became a cultural phenomenon, achieving an astonishing eleven-times Platinum certification since its release and showcasing Mars’ incredible versatility and command of funk-infused pop.
Bruno’s third album, 24K Magic, released in November 2016 through Atlantic Records, further solidified his reputation for crafting infectious, retro-inspired hits. This album delivered the Diamond-certified, Billboard Hot 100-topping single “That’s What I Like,” an undeniable ode to luxurious living and good times. The album’s title track, “24k Magic,” also became a Top 10 hit, recognized for its vibrant 90s R&B and funk influences. Additionally, his collaboration with Cardi B on the track “Finesse” from the same album achieved significant success, reaching No. 3 on the Hot 100 and becoming a fan favorite. Each of Bruno’s albums has demonstrated his meticulous artistry, vocal prowess, and ability to blend various genres into a signature sound that resonates with a global audience. The anticipation for Silk Sonic’s debut is thus not merely for a new album, but for the next evolution in the career of an artist consistently pushing boundaries while paying homage to musical legends.
With an army of fans worldwide clamoring for more of Bruno Mars’ distinctive artistry, the arrival of Silk Sonic is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated musical events in recent memory. The combination of Mars’ smooth vocals and showmanship with Anderson .Paak’s soulful delivery and rhythmic genius promises a truly unique listening experience. As the release date draws near, here’s an in-depth breakdown of everything we’ve gathered about this exciting new chapter in Bruno Mars’ musical journey.
When Will Silk Sonic’s Debut Album Be Released?
Fans can rejoice as Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak’s highly anticipated album, An Evening With Silk Sonic, is slated for release on all Digital Service Providers (DSPs) on November 12, 2021 [pre-save HERE]. This November release date aligns with earlier intentions for the album’s unveiling, although its journey to the public has seen a few intriguing detours.
Initially, An Evening With Silk Sonic was planned for a fall 2021 release. However, as revealed in an August 2021 profile by Rolling Stone, the band made a deliberate decision to push the album’s release to January 2022. The reasoning behind this delay was articulated by Bruno Mars himself, who expressed a desire to release more singles and allow each track to breathe, rather than having the entire album “binge-watched.” He famously stated, “I don’t want to be binge-watched.” This strategy allowed for the release of their second single, “Skate,” which dropped at the end of July. It appears, however, that plans ultimately reverted, bringing the album’s release back to the original fall timeframe, much to the delight of anticipating fans.
It’s worth noting the implications of these release date changes, particularly concerning awards eligibility. For An Evening With Silk Sonic to have qualified for the 64th Annual Grammy Awards, the album would have needed to be released before September 30, 2021. Bruno Mars, with an impressive track record of 11 Grammys and 27 nominations, clearly values such accolades. Had he aimed for Silk Sonic to add to his already considerable total in time for the 2022 Grammy ceremony, the album would have had to meet that earlier deadline. Instead, the November 12th release date means the album will now most likely qualify for the 65th Grammys, which will be held in 2023. This strategic decision highlights the duo’s focus on allowing their music to be fully appreciated rather than rushing for awards eligibility.
Bruno Mars’ passion for the Grammys and performing on its grand stage is well-documented. In March 2021, prior to the 63rd Grammy Awards ceremony, he humorously yet earnestly issued an open letter on social media, appealing to the Recording Academy to allow Silk Sonic to perform. “If you can see it in your hearts to allow two out-of-work musicians to perform at your show, we would really appreciate it,” he wrote, showcasing his characteristic wit. “We’ll send in an audition tape and take as many COVID tests as we need to. I promise we won’t be extra. We just really want a gig again.” This plea ultimately paid off, as Silk Sonic delivered a memorable performance at the ceremony, further cementing their status and building anticipation for their upcoming album.
What Is Bruno Mars’ New Album Called?
The highly anticipated debut album from the super-duo Silk Sonic, featuring Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak, is officially titled An Evening With Silk Sonic. The name itself evokes the intimate, sophisticated, and perhaps even nostalgic atmosphere that the group aims to create with their music, inviting listeners into a curated experience of soulful sounds.
Bruno and Anderson offered insightful details into the genesis of Silk Sonic during a March interview with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe, as reported by Billboard. Their creative partnership blossomed organically after Anderson .Paak opened for Bruno Mars during the European leg of Mars’ monumental 24K Magic World Tour. This initial connection proved fruitful, leading to further collaborations. The two artists had previously worked together with legendary figures like Nile Rodgers and Guy Lawrence on Chic’s It’s About Time album, demonstrating an early synergy and mutual respect for each other’s talents, as documented by Billboard. During the Zane Lowe interview, Mars elaborated on their spontaneous creative process: “We kept coming up with music. It felt like why you fall in love with music in the first place. And jamming with your buddy… There’s no plan, just working out the parts and trying to excite each other.” He emphasized the natural evolution of their collaboration, stating, “That’s why this wouldn’t happen if it didn’t make sense and it didn’t feel natural and organic. This was a series of events that led us to ‘Man, why don’t we just do it?’” This sentiment perfectly captures the effortless chemistry and shared musical vision that defines Silk Sonic.
What Will Silk Sonic’s Debut Album Sound Like?
It’s unequivocally clear that An Evening With Silk Sonic, released on Atlantic and Aftermath records, will be a meticulously crafted R&B record, deeply steeped in the rich traditions of soul and funk. The album is poised to deliver a captivating blend that prominently echoes the lush, romantic, and groove-heavy sounds of the 1960s and 1970s. Imagine the smooth vocal harmonies of Motown, the slick arrangements of Philadelphia soul, and the undeniable swagger of Parliament-Funkadelic, all distilled and presented through a modern lens.
While paying homage to these classic eras, the album will also incorporate a subtle yet effective dash of modern hip-hop sensibilities, primarily through Anderson .Paak’s distinctive vocal delivery and rhythmic contributions. This fusion prevents the album from becoming a mere pastiche, instead creating something fresh and contemporary while still feeling timeless. Listeners can anticipate a healthy, perhaps even indulgent, amount of funk – from the tight, intricate basslines to the shimmering guitar riffs and the soulful horn sections. The production promises to be polished yet authentic, embracing analog warmth and meticulous musicianship that characterized the golden age of soul music. With Bruno Mars’ mastery of melody and Anderson .Paak’s rhythmic dexterity, the album is set to be a seamless tapestry of sensual grooves, heartfelt lyrics, and undeniable feel-good vibes, designed to make you move, swoon, and rediscover the joy of classic R&B.
What Songs Are Going To Be On Silk Sonic’s New Album?
As of late 2021, the only songs officially confirmed to be featured on An Evening With Silk Sonic are the critically acclaimed lead single “Leave The Door Open” and the vibrant second single “Skate.” Both tracks have offered a compelling glimpse into the album’s overall sound and aesthetic, building immense anticipation for the full collection.
The duo’s playful nature was on full display during the 2021 BET Awards. After a show-stopping performance of “Leave The Door Open,” which also saw them accept the Best Group Award, Anderson .Paak teased the audience. He asked, “Do y’all wanna hear a new song? Do y’all wanna hear a new song off the album?” according to Revolt. The crowd’s enthusiastic screams were met with Anderson’s mischievous laugh, as he playfully declared, “Nah, we gon’ run it back. Let’s go!” effectively revealing his playful trolling. This moment, though a hoax for a new song, perfectly encapsulated the charismatic and entertaining persona of Silk Sonic.
However, the wait for new music wasn’t long. On July 28, both Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak took to Twitter to announce that Silk Sonic’s “Summertime Jam” would take place that Friday, July 30. Initial confusion surrounded whether this referred to a concert event or the title of a brand-new song. Ultimately, it proved to be the grand unveiling of their highly anticipated second single, “Skate.” This track continued the retro-funk groove, proving that “Leave The Door Open” was no fluke and solidifying Silk Sonic’s commitment to their signature sound.
Beyond their album releases, Silk Sonic also embarked on a notable collaboration with SelvaRey Rum to launch SelvaRey’s new Coconut Rum. This innovative campaign included a series of engaging musical videos, one of which featured the dynamic duo alongside the talented James Fauntleroy in a cabana-themed extravaganza, further showcasing their musicality and playful brand. These promotional efforts, alongside their singles and live performances, have meticulously built the narrative and anticipation for An Evening With Silk Sonic.
💥#SilkSonic pic.twitter.com/4bYUBeOBtX
— Bruno Mars (@BrunoMars) July 28, 2021
Who Will Feature On Silk Sonic’s New Album?
While An Evening With Silk Sonic is primarily a collaborative effort between Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak, there is one confirmed and highly celebrated featured player who promises to add an authentic layer of funk royalty to the album: Bootsy Collins. The legendary bassist, renowned for his iconic work with Parliament/Funkadelic and his influential solo career, is slated to serve as the album’s “special guest host.”
Bruno Mars elaborated on the significance of Bootsy Collins’ involvement during his interview with Zane Lowe. He articulated the profound influence Collins has had on countless artists, including himself and Anderson .Paak. “There’s so many artists that you could see that grew up on him. And me and Andy being a couple of guys that just grew up loving that,” Mars explained. The idea of incorporating Bootsy into their project was a deeply considered, almost reverent, decision. “We thought it’d be incredible if we could dream up a dream set list and we, that was our model in the studio, ‘Alright, well, let’s create the set list of doom, who would be the ultimate host that could thread all these songs together?’ And thank God for Bootsy.” Collins’ role as host is not merely a cameo; it’s a thematic anchor that connects Silk Sonic’s modern take on funk and soul directly to its illustrious origins. His distinctive voice and charismatic presence are expected to weave through the album, providing narrative continuity and an undeniable seal of approval from one of the genre’s true pioneers, further enhancing the album’s authentic retro vibe and appeal.
As Silk Sonic prepares to finally unleash An Evening With Silk Sonic upon the world, expect nothing less than an exquisitely crafted musical journey. The album promises to be utterly smooth, undeniably sexy, and exquisitely silky, brimming with the kind of soulful R&B hits that transport listeners to a different era while feeling vibrantly new. So, don’t be afraid to leave the door open – and to walk right through it into an unforgettable experience of sensual grooves, impeccable musicianship, and the undeniable chemistry of Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak.