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Shawn Mendes is a Canadian singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the mid-2010s with hits like “Stitches,” “Treat You Better,” and “There’s Nothing Holdin’ Me Back.” Born on August 8, 1998, in Pickering, Ontario, Mendes began his music career by posting covers on Vine and quickly garnered a loyal fanbase. Over the years, he has released several successful albums and has been nominated for numerous awards, solidifying his place in pop music.
During his recent performance at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre on October 28, Mendes spoke openly about the ongoing conversations surrounding his sexuality. He revealed that he has been grappling with these discussions since he was a teenager, acknowledging that sexuality is not a straightforward concept that can be easily defined.
“Sexuality is such a beautifully complex thing, and it’s so hard to just put into boxes,” he told his audience, addressing the scrutiny he has faced over the years. He performed his new song “The Mountain,” which reflects his feelings about the pressure to conform to societal expectations regarding sexuality. The lyrics include, “You can say I like girls or boys / Whatever fits your mold,” highlighting his awareness of the labels often imposed on individuals.
Mendes further elaborated, stating, “The real truth about my life and my sexuality is that, man, I’m just figuring it out like everyone.” He acknowledged the fear that comes with navigating these personal revelations in a society that often demands clear-cut definitions. “It feels really scary because we live in a society that has a lot to say about that,” he added.
In addition to discussing his sexuality, Mendes addressed his dating life, expressing a desire to alleviate the pressure of finding “The One.” He reflected on the societal expectations surrounding dating, saying, “When you’re single, there’s this pressure of looking for ‘The One.’ Damn that’s a lot of pressure to put on someone when you first start dating.”
Instead, Mendes is focusing on experiencing love in the present moment. “I’ve just been trying to take that pressure off,” he explained, advocating for a more relaxed approach to relationships.
Mendes has been in high-profile relationships with fellow musician Camila Cabello and actress Sabrina Carpenter, both of which have drawn significant media attention. He previously discussed the frustration he felt about rumors concerning his sexuality during a 2020 appearance on Dax Shepard’s podcast, where he shared his empathy for those in the LGBTQ+ community.
“It was so, so frustrating for me because there were some people in my life that I was very, very close to, who were gay and in the closet,” Mendes shared. He articulated the confusion many feel when trying to navigate their identity in a world that often expects clarity and certainty.
Shawn Mendes continues to be a relatable figure for many as he navigates the complexities of his identity and the pressures of fame. His willingness to speak candidly about his feelings allows fans to connect with him on a deeper level, proving that even pop stars face uncertainties and challenges just like anyone else.