Watch Shawn Mendes, Fans Discuss Singer’s Influence
In early March, Shawn Mendes launched his headlining world tour with a sold-out show at Radio City Music Hall. At the iconic venue, Mendes premiered gorgeous new graphics and three new songs for fans, an early teaser of what’s to come with his sophomore album and follow-up to his Number One debut, Handwritten. Take a look at the 17-year-old singer-songwriter’s preparations for his show in the video above.
“I think it’s mostly nerve-wracking because I haven’t done it before,” Mendes tells Rolling Stone while sitting in his dressing room after soundcheck. “It’s historic and beautiful and just a magical place. It’s a learning experience…only a learning experience at Radio City.”
Mendes’ world tour sold out in six minutes and will see him perform at stadiums, arenas and theaters across North America and Europe through August. In the first show of his 2016 trek, he showed off a bluesier, rock & roll side of himself, playing more electric guitar and revving up some of his poppier songs with the full band that will be joining him this year. He was even joined by special guest Camila Cabello of Fifth Harmony who duetted with Mendes on the single, “I Know What You Did Last Summer.”
Outside, excited fans lined up for hours on the chilly spring day, awaiting their chance to see his show. Many held up signs that said “You Made It Shawn” during the performance, showcasing their support of the singer from the moment he became a viral hit through his Vine and YouTube covers. “He couldn’t be a better idol for somebody,” one fan says outside of the venue. Another calls the burgeoning star “better than Justin Bieber.”