Shawn Mendes “For Friends & Family Only” Concert Experience

Shawn Mendes is so back!

After stepping away from his Wonder World Tour in 2022, taking a break from the big stages and spotlights, he is finally returning with his fifth studio album, titled, ‘Shawn’. To start this new era, on his birthday, Mendes released the first two leading singles, "Why Why Why" and "Isn't That Enough." (Reference the Reviews Page to Read More)
Now, in 2024, he has taken a different approach to celebrating his artistry. Forgoing the giant arenas and bigger productions, the Canadian heartthrob invited fans into his world in a way he's never done before; embarking upon a mini tour taking his fans on an emotional journey through the new music he has been working on, playing in elegant, unique theaters across North America and Europe. These types of venues are intended to create a deeply personal and up-close experience or, as Shawn puts it, an intimate “friends and family" atmosphere, hence the tour name ‘For Friends and Family Only’.

Attending Shawn’s concert at the Paramount Theater in Brooklyn, New York, this past Friday night, was one filled with nostalgia, heartfelt tributes, and exceptional vocals. At the show he played his upcoming self-titled album ‘Shawn’ from top to bottom with a few classics sprinkled in throughout the night! Giving us lucky fans an inside look at the stories and emotions behind each of the new songs. It was like our own private album release party, except backwards, we heard the songs live before the actual recorded body of work.

Shawn’s stage presence was captivating from the moment he walked onto the stage. From seeing him for the first time nearly 10 years ago at the start of his career, only playing cover songs, to now releasing his fifth album. The evolution of his sound and showmanship throughout the years has been incredible to witness! It was also super cool to experience the show with my new friend Julia who had never seen Shawn live before! It gave me even more of an appreciation for him!

My friend Julia & I at the Brooklyn Paramount Theater 

In addition to his ever powerful vocals, Mendes also showcased his incredible guitar skills throughout the concert, very resonant of artists like John Mayer and Ed Sheeran!! Rocking out like the rock-star he is, his consistently energetic performance and connection with the crowd throughout the night made for an absolutely unforgettable experience. He makes you feel as though he is singing directly to you even from the back of the venue!!

One of the most poignant moments of the evening came when Mendes stopped the show to pay tribute to his friend and former One Direction star, Liam Payne, who recently passed away unexpectedly. He dedicated his song "Heart of Gold" to Payne, sharing a heartfelt message of love and loss.

He said:

"We heard the news about Liam. It felt completely devastating. I got to meet him a couple times, and he was a beautiful soul and his eyes gleamed — it was beauty, shining into his eyes. And I just want to take a second to send so much love to him, wherever he is up there. Liam, we love you. The world is crying for you, brother, and we're all praying for your son and your family. I miss you. This one's for you tonight, Liam, from all of us."

The moment was met with a resounding cry throughout the venue, there was not a dry eye in the house. As someone who has been an avid 1D fan since the start, this was one of the toughest losses of an artist I have ever experienced; and I know I am far from alone in making that statement. I appreciated Shawn stopping and taking a moment to acknowledge their connection and friendship. It was so moving.

I needed to show off my fantastic Shawn jacket! 

Overall, Shawn Mendes' Brooklyn concert was an epic evening to experience. His pure talent, unrelenting passion, and heartfelt tribute to Liam Payne, made it a truly special event for everybody in the room. A reminder of why us fans have stuck with him as long as we have. By the end of the night my feet were sore and I had nearly lost my voice from having a blast, singing my heart out! The obvious signs of a great night! I am and will forever be Shawn’s biggest fan!!

I can’t wait to hear all the songs over and over again when ‘Shawn’ the album drops on November 14!

-XOXO Rachel