Bruno Mars, Versace on the Floor | Track Review 🎵

Bruno Mars returns with the second single from his third LP ‘24K Magic,’ slick, 80s inspired ballad, “Versace on the Floor.”

“Versace on the Floor” possesses an 80s sound.  The production is incredibly slick, initiating with electric piano. This doesn’t necessarily sound like a song from 2016, save for how slick it is produced.  That said, it’s not quite an anachronism either.  It is definitely distinct.

Mars delivers beautiful vocals, sounding simply extraordinary. From the jump, it’s clear that he is singing about sex. Even so, he manages to incorporate some legit emotions, even if the ultimate result is “getting it on.” An excellent pre-chorus section sets up catchy, simple refrain:

“So, baby, let’s just turn down the lights / and close the door / ooh I love that dress / but you won’t need it anymore / no, you won’t need it no more / let’s just kiss ‘til we’re naked, baby." 

During the chorus, 80s-inspired driving synths and hyper-rhythmic drum programming enters in. The chorus is catchy:

“Versace on the floor / ooh take it off for me, for me, for me, for me now, girl…”

Another key feature is a key modulation aka key change. This was common in the past, particularly 80s R&B. Here, it works effectively and allows Mars to further soar vocally.

Final Thoughts

Overall, “Versace on the Floor” is well written and well sung. Bruno Mars deliver excellent vocals, sounding better than ever.  Slick as albeit, the 80s-inspired production makes this record stand out from the rest.  Arguably, “Versace on the Floor” trumps “24K Magic.”

Bruno Mars • 24K Magic • Atlantic • Release: 11.18.16 

Photo Credit: Atlantic