Shawn Mendes: New Album, "Why Why Why" & "Isn't That Enough" | Apple Music

Summary

In a heartfelt conversation, the artist Sean reflects on his creative journey and the release of his new songs 'Isn't That Enough' and 'Why.' He discusses the process of rediscovering his passion for music, the importance of authenticity in his work, and the emotional breakthroughs that led to the creation of his album 'Sha.' The discussion delves into the artist's personal growth, his connection with his fans, and the therapeutic nature of music, highlighting the joy and freedom he found in his latest work.

Takeaways

• 🎶 The artist discusses his emotional journey and how it has influenced his new music, highlighting a sense of rediscovery and growth.
• 🎧 The album was born out of a personal quest to determine if the artist could still create music that resonated with him.
• 🎸 The recording process involved a stripped-back approach, focusing on the raw connection between the artist, his guitar, and his bandmates.
• 🎵 The artist felt a deep sense of freedom and authenticity in the creation of his new album, which he describes as the most natural thing he's ever made.
• 😌 The title of the album, 'Sha,' reflects a state of self-acceptance and ease, which the artist has achieved through his musical journey.
• 🎤 The artist's mother's reaction to his music signifies a personal breakthrough, indicating that he has found himself through his art.
• 🤔 The artist openly addresses the pressure and anxiety he experienced, using his music as a medium to work through and express these emotions.
• 👨‍👧 The theme of fatherhood is explored, with the artist deciding to be honest and direct about his feelings, even if it was a difficult subject.
• 🎉 There's a sense of joy and lightness in the new music, a contrast to previous perceptions of the artist's emotional state.
• 🔊 The artist emphasizes the importance of honesty and self-awareness in his songwriting, aiming to connect with listeners on a deeper level.

Q & A

What was the initial challenge Sean faced while starting to write the album?

Sean initially faced the challenge of whether he could make music again and if he could feel good about creating it.

How did Sean describe the process of recording the songs?

Sean described the recording process as a process of stripping back to the basics, with just a microphone in front of him and playing the song top to bottom with his team.

What was the significance of the song 'Isn't That Enough' for Sean?

The song 'Isn't That Enough' was significant for Sean as it symbolized his conversation with fans, addressing his well-being and reassuring them that everything is good.

What was Sean's mother's reaction to the song 'Isn't That Enough'?

Sean's mother felt that he had found himself through the song, which was an unexpected and emotional reaction for Sean.

What does the album title 'Sha' represent for Sean?

The album title 'Sha' represents a feeling of general ease and self-acceptance for Sean, and it is considered an honest reflection of his current state.

How does Sean feel about the new album being the most natural thing he's ever made?

Sean feels that the new album is the most natural thing he's ever made, and it feels easy to talk about, play live, and it's a lovely way to express his current musical space.

What was the turning point for Sean in the song 'Why'?

The turning point in 'Why' was when Sean decided to express his exact truth rather than dancing around it, even if the song was never to be released.

What did Sean learn in therapy that helped him with his songwriting?

Sean learned in therapy that not everything has to have a definitive solution or reason, and this understanding helped him in expressing his thoughts and feelings in his songs.

How does Sean describe the cyclical nature of his experiences in the song 'Why'?

Sean describes the cyclical nature of his experiences as moments of feeling like he's past something, followed by moments where it feels like he's not past anything at all.

What does Sean mean when he says he 'stepped off the stage with nothing' in the song 'Why'?

When Sean says he 'stepped off the stage with nothing,' he's referring to a moment of vulnerability and the feeling of being exposed without any facades.