Shawn Mendes, known for his heartfelt lyrics and melodic pop tunes, returned in 2024 with “Why Why Why,” a deeply introspective track from his album Shawn. The song marks a new chapter in his artistic journey, blending raw emotions with a minimalist pop soundscape. “Why Why Why” is more than just a pop song; it’s an exploration of inner conflict, vulnerability, and the cyclical nature of life. In this review, we’ll delve into the song’s lyrics, production, themes, and the overall impact it has on Shawn Mendes’ discography.
Album Context
“Why Why Why” is a standout track on Mendes’ 2024 album Shawn, which takes a more introspective approach compared to his previous works. The album reflects Mendes’ evolution as both an artist and a person, moving away from polished love anthems to a more raw and personal narrative. This shift aligns with the song’s themes of self-doubt, regret, and the search for clarity amid life’s chaos.
Lyrics Analysis
The lyrics of “Why Why Why” are steeped in introspection and emotional complexity. Mendes opens the song with the lines:
“Opened up my journal to a page / Everything that hurts me’s still the same.”
These words immediately set a reflective tone, indicating a recurring struggle. The repetition of “Why, why, why?” throughout the song serves as both a rhetorical question and a motif, emphasizing his confusion and emotional turbulence.
One of the song’s most striking moments comes when Mendes reflects on his own maturity:
“I thought I was about to be a father / Shook me to the core, I’m still a kid.”
This lyric reveals a deeply personal experience, showcasing his vulnerability and his ongoing journey of self-discovery. It’s rare for mainstream pop artists to address such raw and personal moments, making this lyric particularly poignant.
The refrain, “Feels like everything goes ’round and ’round,” symbolizes life’s cyclical nature, where struggles and emotions resurface, despite attempts to move forward. Mendes uses this line to tie together the various themes in the song, creating a cohesive emotional narrative.
Production and Musicality
The production of “Why Why Why” leans on simplicity to let the lyrics shine. Produced by a team that includes Mendes himself and long-time collaborator Teddy Geiger, the song features a sparse arrangement with soft guitar strums, atmospheric synths, and a steady, understated beat. This minimalist approach mirrors the song’s introspective theme, allowing listeners to focus on Mendes’ vocal delivery.
Vocally, Mendes is at his best here. His voice moves effortlessly between soft falsettos and raw, impassioned cries, capturing the depth of his emotions. The layered harmonies in the chorus add a haunting quality, making the repetitive “Why, why, why?” resonate deeply.
The production crescendoes subtly during the bridge, where Mendes sings:
“Feels like everything goes ’round and ’round / And ’round, and ’round, and ’round it goes.”
This buildup adds a sense of urgency, mirroring the emotional spiral he describes in the lyrics.
Themes and Interpretation
“Why Why Why” touches on universal themes of regret, self-doubt, and life’s relentless cycles. Mendes reflects on moments of selfishness, such as choosing himself over a relationship:
“But I went off and chose myself instead / Why, why, why?”
This line captures a moment of self-awareness and the guilt that often accompanies prioritizing personal growth. Mendes also addresses the pressures of fame with:
“I stepped off the stage with nothin’ left / All the lights were fuckin’ with my head.”
Here, he juxtaposes the glamour of being a performer with the toll it takes on his mental health. The song becomes a window into the struggles that come with public life and the search for authenticity in the face of expectations.
The cyclical imagery in the song, represented by the repetition of “round and ’round,” suggests a sense of being trapped in an emotional loop. This theme resonates with listeners who have experienced the frustration of recurring challenges in their own lives.
Cultural and Personal Significance
“Why Why Why” represents a significant moment in Shawn Mendes’ career. By addressing deeply personal experiences and stepping away from his polished pop sound, Mendes shows a willingness to take risks and embrace vulnerability.
The song’s candidness resonates in a cultural moment where listeners are increasingly drawn to authenticity in music. Artists like Billie Eilish, Taylor Swift, and Adele have successfully explored similar themes, and Mendes’ foray into this space feels both genuine and necessary for his artistic growth.
Comparison with Past Works
Compared to Mendes’ earlier hits like “Stitches” and “Treat You Better,” which focused on relationship dynamics, “Why Why Why” is more introspective and experimental. It builds on the emotional depth of songs like “In My Blood,” but with a quieter, more reflective tone. The song aligns with the maturity and self-awareness that Mendes has been cultivating over recent years.
Audience Reception
Early reactions to “Why Why Why” have been overwhelmingly positive. Fans have praised the song for its vulnerability and relatability, while critics have noted Mendes’ growth as a songwriter. The song has sparked discussions on social media, with many listeners sharing how the lyrics resonate with their own experiences.
Conclusion
“Why Why Why” is a testament to Shawn Mendes’ evolution as an artist. By delving into personal struggles and presenting them with raw honesty, Mendes connects with listeners on a deeper level. The song’s minimalist production, heartfelt lyrics, and haunting vocals make it a standout track on Shawn.
For fans of Shawn Mendes and newcomers alike, “Why Why Why” serves as a reminder that even in moments of confusion and doubt, there is beauty in vulnerability. It’s a song that not only entertains but also invites reflection—a hallmark of truly impactful music.
Rating: 9/10
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