John Mayer Tops Billboard's 200

John Mayer is no stranger to Billboard. In fact, they're becoming quite intimate. Mayer's new album "Battle Studies" rose to #1 on Billboard's top 200 list, just nine days after its release on November 17. The Grammy Award winning singer/songwriter/designer expressed some seasonal gratitude for his high-rise to the top spot with a message on Twitter to his fans, saying, "Thank you from the bottom of my heart. What a wonderful way to spend Thanksgiving."

This is not a first for thirty-two year old Mayer, whose last album, "Continuum" debuted at #2 on Billboard's list in 2006. Prior to that, "Heavier Things," his third studio release, peaked at #1 back in 2003.

"Battle Studies" was recorded over a period of six months at a private home in California, where Mayer worked and lived until it was time to put the finishing touches on it at Capitol Studios in Los Angeles. The album contains classic Mayer mellow, laced with a relaxed melodic vibe. Because he's also an accomplished guitarist, listeners are once again treated to the rock/pop riffs and revelations that are signature to John Mayer. Throughout this newest body of work, Mayer explores various relationship challenges in a "love is a battlefield" sort of way, and this time he's making it personal. He has stated that he made this album to feel more like he is playing in front of you, rather than on a stage.

Two singles have been released from the album to date. The first, "Who Says" debuted on September 24th, and is currently at #55 on Billboard's hot 100 list. The most recent single, "Heartbreak Warfare," was released on November 17, and currently stands at #100.

Mayer embarks on his North American tour in early 2010. The Battle Studies tour will start in February and run through April. Tickets are on sale now. Check your local ticket outlets for details.