During a concert in Colorado, the singer candidly addresses speculation about his sexuality, sharing his journey of self-discovery with fans.
In a heartfelt moment during his concert at Morrison’s Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado, Canadian singer Shawn Mendes bravely opened up about his sexuality, revealing that he is still in the process of figuring it out. Speaking to an enthusiastic crowd, Mendes shared his feelings on the intense scrutiny surrounding his personal life, stating, “I don’t really know sometimes, and I know other times. It feels really scary because we live in a society that has a lot to say about that.”
This candid confession came just before Mendes performed an unreleased song, “The Mountain,” which he described as inspired by the pressure and speculation regarding his sexuality. The audience cheered him on as he explained the weight of such discussions and how they felt intrusive. “There’s this thing about my sexuality, and people have been talking about it for so long,” he reflected. “It’s kind of silly, because I think sexuality is such a beautifully complex thing, and it’s so hard to just put into boxes.”
Mendes articulated how the ongoing public conversation about his sexuality has affected him personally. “It always felt like such an intrusion on something very personal to me,” he admitted. “Something that I was figuring out in myself, something that I had yet to discover and still have yet to discover.” He emphasised that, like many others, he is on a journey of self-exploration. “The real truth about my life and my sexuality is that, man, I’m just figuring it out like everyone,” he said, resonating with many who grapple with similar issues.
His new song, “The Mountain,” contains poignant lyrics that echo his feelings: “You can say I’m too young, you can say I’m too old, you can say I like girls or boys, whatever fits your mould.” Mendes explained that writing this song was significant for him as it offered a chance to express his feelings openly. “It felt like a moment where I could address it in a way that felt close to my heart,” he remarked.
The singer’s journey has not been without its challenges. In a 2018 interview with Rolling Stone, Mendes previously discussed the overwhelming speculation about his sexuality, describing it as a “massive, massive thing” that had loomed over him for years. The following year, he reiterated to The Guardian how hurtful the assumptions could be, particularly for those without a supportive network. “I get mad when people assume things about me because I imagine the people who don’t have the support system I have and how that must affect them,” he shared.
Mendes, known for his chart-topping hits such as “Señorita” and “Stitches,” has captivated audiences around the world with his heartfelt music. He has often addressed personal topics in his songs, but this recent admission marks a significant step in his journey of self-acceptance and transparency. The singer’s openness not only resonates with his fans but also serves to highlight the broader conversations around identity and sexuality in today’s society.
As he continues to navigate the complexities of his personal life and career, Mendes’s courage to speak openly about his experiences will undoubtedly inspire others. In a world where labels often seem to define us, his message is a reminder that self-discovery is a universal experience.
As the concert drew to a close, Mendes expressed his gratitude to the audience, emphasising the importance of community and understanding. “I just want to be able to be closer to everyone and just kind of be in my truth,” he concluded, leaving a lasting impression on all in attendance.
