Two-year hiatus to focus on his mental health, Shawn Mendes is set to make a grand return with new music. The three-time Grammy nominee announced his fifth studio album, titled “Shawn,” will be released on October 18, 2024. This marks Mendes’ first album since he postponed his world tour in 2022 to prioritize his well-being.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Mendes shared his excitement about the upcoming album. “Music really can be medicine,” he wrote. “Two years ago, I felt like I had absolutely no idea who I was. A year ago, I couldn’t step into a studio without falling into complete panic. So to be here right now with 12 beautiful finished songs feels like such a gift.”
Mendes expressed gratitude towards his support system during this challenging period. “Honestly, thank God for my friends and family,” he continued. “Life can be brutal, but having a small group of people you deeply trust to walk you through makes it so much better. I have no idea how I would have made it through the last couple of years, let alone make an album without you.”
The album “Shawn” is described as Mendes’ most musically intimate and lyrically honest work to date. Alongside the announcement, he released a trailer featuring an acoustic rendition of the single “Isn’t That Enough,” performed by a campfire.
Watch the trailer for “Shawn” below:
Mendes has kept a low profile since July 2022, when he canceled his Wonder: The World Tour after just seven performances. At the time, he cited the need for a mental health break. “I started this tour excited to finally get back to playing live after a long break due to the pandemic,” he wrote on Instagram. “But the reality is, I was not at all ready for how difficult touring would be after this time away. After speaking more with my team and working with an incredible group of health professionals, it has become clear that I need to take the time I’ve never taken personally to ground myself and come back stronger.”
In an interview with The Wall Street Journal in February 2023, Mendes reflected on his time off the road. “I think the last year and a half has been the most eye-opening and growing and beautiful and just healing process of my life,” he said. “I’m also really grateful for all the people that were so accepting and loving and kind and understanding.”
Fans have been eagerly anticipating Mendes’ return. In September, he will headline Brazil’s Rock in Rio festival, followed by an appearance at Mexico’s Corona Capital festival in November. Additionally, Mendes made surprise onstage appearances with fellow musicians Noah Kahan and Niall Horan during their tours this year.
