Photo: Shawn Mendes/Instagram
Shawn Mendes is making a comeback after stepping back from the music scene to focus on his well-being.
The Canadian singer-songwriter has announced the release of his upcoming self-titled album, “Shawn,” on Oct. 18.
Ahead of the album’s release, Mendes is premiering two singles, “Why Why Why” and “Isn’t That Enough,” on Aug. 8, his 26th birthday.
The latter track served as the backdrop for the album trailer that Mendes released with the announcement.
“Shawn” will be his first album since “Wonder,” which came out in December 2020.
The “In My Blood” singer has been open about his struggles with mental health. In July 2022, he pulled the plug on his world tour just seven shows in, admitting he wasn’t prepared for the toll of being back on the road after a lengthy, pandemic-induced break.
“The reality is I was not at all ready for how difficult touring would be after this time away. It has become more clear that I need to take the time I’ve never taken personally to ground myself and come back stronger,” he said.
Since scaling back from live performances, Mendes has eased back into the scene, having made surprise guest appearances alongside Ed Sheeran, Niall Horan, and Noah Kahan. He is also set to headline the Rock in Rio music festival in September.
In an Instagram post earlier this year, Mendes shared a video of himself singing and playing the harmonium. Reflecting on his journey, the Ontario native underscored the importance of listening.
“The biggest lesson for me this year has been to accept and welcome the lows of life, not to constantly need to change or fix something in order to feel high again. I know if I really slow down and listen when I’m low, there’s always something to hear,” he said.
Mendes said returning to the studio and completing his newest production “feels like such a gift.”
“Music really can be medicine. 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,” Mendes wrote.
“I really hope you love this album, I do. I hope it makes you feel warm and close to the earth like it does for me,” he added.