Shawn Mendes has recently made a triumphant return to the spotlight after taking some time off following the release of his 2020 album Wonder. The Canadian singer-songwriter has released three new singles and announced that his new album, Shawn, will be coming out in October. Mendes describes this album as a healing experience that allowed him to strip everything back and get to the core of himself. He expressed pride in the album and his journey over the past few years.
At the 2024 MTV VMAs, Mendes gave his first live performance in his new era, singing the single “Nobody Knows” alongside his friends Mike Sabath and Eddie Benjamin. He shared that he was nervous returning to the stage after some time away, but ultimately felt grateful to be back performing and connecting with his audience. Mendes highlighted the significance of playing with his collaborators and the raw, soulful nature of the music they created together.
For his red carpet appearance at the VMAs, Mendes wore a sleek all-black suit from Dolce & Gabbana, with crochet-style trim adding a stylish touch. He mentioned feeling inspired by Johnny Cash and wanted to present himself in an all-black ensemble as a nod to the iconic musician. When it was time to take the stage, Mendes opted for a more relaxed look, removing his jacket to showcase his silky shirt and layered necklaces. The simplicity of his performance look complemented the raw and acoustic sound of his music.
Mendes expressed his enjoyment of bringing a little bit of rock and roll to the VMAs stage with a stripped-down performance featuring just three humans, three instruments, and three voices. He emphasized the live and raw nature of the performance, which allowed the music to truly shine. Overall, Mendes felt good about his return to the VMAs stage and the opportunity to share his music with his fans.
The singer’s experience at the VMAs marked a significant moment in his musical journey, as he shared his new chapter with the world. Mendes, who had been away from the spotlight for some time, returned with confidence and a renewed passion for creating music. With his new album set for release in October, fans can look forward to more heartfelt and authentic songs from this talented artist. Mendes’s performance at the VMAs served as a powerful reminder of his talent and his ability to connect with audiences through his music.