"It's flattering. It's just an honor," Mars said in an interview this week. "I'm proud to be a part of this whole team that I have."
Mars beat out Justin Timberlake, who returned to music after a seven-year hiatus, and Miley Cyrus, who got attention on the charts and for her now-infamous MTV VMA performance with Robin Thicke.
Mars cranked out several hits this year, including the No. 1 "When I Was Your Man," and the top 5 hit "Treasure."
The pop crooner has also received four Grammy nominations. His No. 1 hit, "Locked Out of Heaven," is up for song and record of the year. He's also a contender for best pop solo performance with "When I Was Your Man," and best pop vocal album with "Unorthodox Jukebox."
He'll launch the second North American leg of his "Moonshine Jungle World Tour" this summer.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
