Bruce Springsteen has admitted that it was a “mistake” to exclusively release his new album, 'Working On A Dream', with the American retailer Wal-Mart.

The deal with the company, which restricted the album's distribution in the US, was criticised by fans.

In an interview with the New York Times, Springsteen said: "Our batting average is usually very good, but we missed that one."

The singer, who headlined the Super Bowl half-time show in Florida last night (February 1st), said he had failed to “vet” the idea the “way we usually do”.

He added: "It was something that if we'd thought about it a little longer, we'd have done something different. Fans will call you on that stuff, as it should be.”

Wal-Mart has secured a number of exclusive album deals over recent years, including the latest album from The Eagles.

'Working On A Dream' is currently number one on the UK charts and is expected to achieve the same position in America this week.

(by Jason Gregory)