History of Shawn Mendes in Timeline

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Shawn Mendes

Shawn Mendes is a Canadian singer-songwriter who rose to fame in 2013 through posting song covers on Vine. In 2014, he signed with Island Records after being discovered by Andrew Gertler and Ziggy Chareton. His debut EP was released the same year, followed by his debut album "Handwritten" in 2015. "Handwritten" topped the Billboard 200, making him one of the youngest artists to achieve this. His single "Stitches" achieved significant success, reaching number one in the UK and the top 10 in both the US and Canada, solidifying his place in the music industry.

1989: Opened for Taylor Swift during 1989 World Tour dates

In 2015, Shawn Mendes opened for Taylor Swift during North American dates of her 1989 World Tour.

August 8, 1998: Shawn Mendes Born

Shawn Peter Raul Mendes was born on August 8, 1998, in Canada.

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2012: Learned to Play Guitar

In 2012, at the age of 13, Shawn Mendes learned to play guitar by watching YouTube tutorial videos.

November 2013: Discovered by Andrew Gertler

In November 2013, Shawn Mendes was discovered online by artist manager Andrew Gertler.

2013: Gained Following on Vine

In 2013, Shawn Mendes gained a following by posting song covers on Vine.

January 2014: Brought to Island Records

In January 2014, Andrew Gertler brought Shawn Mendes to Island Records.

May 2014: Officially Signed to Island

In May 2014, Shawn Mendes officially signed to Island Records.

June 26, 2014: Released First Single "Life of the Party"

On June 26, 2014, Shawn Mendes released his first single "Life of the Party".

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July 12, 2014: Debut on Billboard Hot 100

For the week ending July 12, 2014, Shawn Mendes became the youngest to debut in the top 25 on the US Billboard Hot 100 with "Life of the Party", making it to number 24.

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August 2014: Third Most-Followed Musician on Vine

By August 2014, Shawn Mendes was the third most-followed musician on Vine.

September 5, 2014: "Oh Cecilia (Breaking My Heart)" Release

On September 5, 2014, "Oh Cecilia (Breaking My Heart)" featuring Shawn Mendes, was released as the fifth single from The Vamps' debut album, Meet the Vamps.

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November 6, 2014: "Something Big" Released

On November 6, 2014, Shawn Mendes released "Something Big" as his second single.

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2014: Launch of 'Notes from Shawn' Campaign

In 2014, Shawn Mendes and DoSomething.org launched their campaign called "Notes from Shawn", encouraging fans to write positive notes to address low self-esteem, depression, and awareness of self-harm.

2014: Signed with Island Records

In 2014, Shawn Mendes signed a deal with Island Records after gaining the attention of artist manager Andrew Gertler and Island Records A&R Ziggy Chareton.

2014: Listed Among Time's "25 Most Influential Teens of 2014"

In 2014, Shawn Mendes was listed among Time's "25 Most Influential Teens of 2014" after his debut on the Billboard Hot 100.

April 14, 2015: Handwritten Album Release

On April 14, 2015, Shawn Mendes released his full-length album 'Handwritten,' which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200.

2015: Released "I Know What You Did Last Summer"

In 2015, Shawn Mendes and Camila Cabello released their collaborative single "I Know What You Did Last Summer".

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2015: Relaunch of 'Notes from Shawn' Campaign

In 2015, Shawn Mendes and DoSomething.org relaunched their "Notes from Shawn" campaign for the second year.

2015: Debut Album 'Handwritten' Released

In 2015, Shawn Mendes released his debut studio album, 'Handwritten,' which debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200.

2015: Listed Among Time's "The 30 Most Influential Teens of 2015"

In 2015, Shawn Mendes was listed in Time's "The 30 Most Influential Teens of 2015" after his debut album topped the Billboard 200 and his single "Stitches" made the top 10.

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January 21, 2016: Acting Debut on The 100

On January 21, 2016, Shawn Mendes made his acting debut on The CW's 'The 100' third-season premiere.

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March 2016: Shawn Mendes World Tour Announced

In March 2016, Shawn Mendes announced his second world tour as a headliner, the Shawn Mendes World Tour.

June 2016: Graduated from Pine Ridge Secondary School

In June 2016, Shawn Mendes graduated from Pine Ridge Secondary School, where he participated in ice hockey, soccer, glee club, and acting lessons.

June 2016: Released Treat You Better

In June 2016, Shawn Mendes released "Treat You Better", the lead single from his second studio album.

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June 2016: Statement regarding speculations about his sexuality

In June 2016, Shawn Mendes stated: "First of all, I'm not gay. Second of all, it shouldn't make a difference if I was or if I wasn't. The focus should be on the music and not my sexuality."

August 18, 2016: Mercy Released as Single

On August 18, 2016, Shawn Mendes released "Mercy" as the second single from the album, Illuminate.

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September 23, 2016: Illuminate Album Released

On September 23, 2016, Shawn Mendes released his second album, Illuminate, which debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200.

December 3, 2016: Appeared on Saturday Night Live

On December 3, 2016, Shawn Mendes appeared as the musical guest on Saturday Night Live.

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December 2016: Live at Madison Square Garden Album Release

In December 2016, Shawn Mendes released the live album, 'Live at Madison Square Garden'.

2016: Relaunch of 'Notes from Shawn' Campaign for the third year

In 2016, Shawn Mendes and DoSomething.org relaunched their "Notes from Shawn" campaign for the third year.

2016: Signing with Wilhelmina Models

In 2016, Shawn Mendes signed with Wilhelmina Models.

2016: Listed Among Time's The 30 Most Influential Teens of 2016

In 2016, Shawn Mendes was listed among Time's The 30 Most Influential Teens of 2016 and made his first appearance on Forbes's 30 Under 30 2016: Music.

2016: Illuminate Album Debut

In 2016, Shawn Mendes's second album, 'Illuminate,' debuted at number one in the US.

April 2017: Illuminate World Tour

In April 2017, Shawn Mendes embarked on his Illuminate World Tour, which sold-out arenas around the world.

April 20, 2017: Release of There's Nothing Holdin' Me Back

On April 20, 2017, Shawn Mendes released the single "There's Nothing Holdin' Me Back", which was included on his Illuminate deluxe edition album.

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June 2017: Runway Walk for Emporio Armani

In June 2017, Shawn Mendes walked the runway during the "Emporio Armani Spring 2018" show in Milan, Italy, wearing the brand's new EA Connected smartwatch.

August 2017: First Artist Under 20 with Three Number-One Songs

In August 2017, Shawn Mendes became the first artist under 20 years old to have three number-one songs on the Billboard Adult Pop Songs chart.

August 2017: Launch of Shawn Mendes Signature Fragrance

In August 2017, Shawn Mendes launched his first fragrance, Shawn Mendes Signature, designed for both women and men.

September 2017: Creation of Mexico Earthquake Relief Fund

In September 2017, Shawn Mendes created the Mexico Earthquake Relief Fund in conjunction with the American Red Cross and donated $100,000 to relief efforts following the earthquake in Mexico City.

November 2017: First Artist with Three Number-One Songs on Billboard Adult Contemporary Chart

In November 2017, Shawn Mendes became the first artist to have three number-one songs on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart before turning 20 years old.

2017: Topped Billboard's 21 Under 21 List

In 2017, Shawn Mendes topped Billboard's 21 Under 21 list for his chart performance, having two albums topped the Billboard 200 and single "There's Nothing Holding Me Back".

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March 22, 2018: Released "In My Blood"

On March 22, 2018, Shawn Mendes released the lead single "In My Blood" from his upcoming third studio album.

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April 21, 2018: Performed for Queen Elizabeth II

On April 21, 2018, Shawn Mendes performed at a televised concert honoring the 92nd birthday of Queen Elizabeth II.

May 25, 2018: Released Self-Titled Album

On May 25, 2018, Shawn Mendes released his self-titled studio album to positive critical reviews and debuted at number one.

June 6, 2018: Announcement as Emporio Armani Ambassador

On June 6, 2018, Shawn Mendes was announced as the ambassador for Emporio Armani's entire "Fall Winter 2018-2019" watch collection.

July 2018: Publication of Emporio Armani Smartwatch Photos

In July 2018, photographs of Shawn Mendes wearing the new EA Connected smartwatches were published on social media.

August 2018: Launch of Shawn Signature II Fragrance

In August 2018, Shawn Mendes launched his second fragrance, Shawn Signature II, designed for both men and women.

September 2018: Participation in Global Citizen Festival

In September 2018, Shawn Mendes participated in the Global Citizen Festival in Central Park, New York City, to raise awareness regarding education and children's access to education around the world.

October 2018: Release of 'Under Pressure' Cover

In October 2018, Shawn Mendes and Teddy Geiger released a cover of "Under Pressure" by Queen and David Bowie, donating the proceeds to the Mercury Phoenix Trust.

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October 20, 2018: Performance at 'We Can Survive' Event

On October 20, 2018, Shawn Mendes performed at The Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles for the "We Can Survive" event to raise funds for the Young Survival Coalition, supporting young women diagnosed with breast cancer.

2018: Shawn Mendes Album Release

In 2018, Shawn Mendes released his self-titled third album, 'Shawn Mendes,' which also debuted at number one in the US.

2018: Victoria's Secret Fashion Show Performer

In 2018, Shawn Mendes was announced as one of the musical performers for the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show recorded in November and aired in December.

2018: Topped Billboard 21 Under 21 List

In 2018, Shawn Mendes was listed on Billboard "21 Under 21", topping the list for the second year in a row for his chart performance.

2018: Collaboration with Omaze to Support WE Schools Program

In 2018, Shawn Mendes worked with Omaze to raise funds through donations to support the WE Schools program, a movement aiming to support youth through educational services and mentorship.

2018: Named One of Time's 100 Most Influential People

In 2018, Time named Shawn Mendes one of the 100 most influential people in the world on their annual list.

February 16, 2019: Brand Ambassador for Calvin Klein

On February 16, 2019, Shawn Mendes announced that he was the latest brand ambassador for Calvin Klein's #MyCalvins campaign.

May 3, 2019: Released "If I Can't Have You"

On May 3, 2019, Shawn Mendes released the single "If I Can't Have You" along with its music video.

June 21, 2019: Released "Señorita" with Camila Cabello

On June 21, 2019, Shawn Mendes released "Señorita" with Camila Cabello, along with the music video. This marks their second collaboration.

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July 2019: Started dating Camila Cabello

In July 2019, Shawn Mendes began dating Cuban-American singer Camila Cabello. Their relationship sparked controversy, as both were accused of attempting to start a relationship for publicity, but Mendes insisted it was "definitely not a publicity stunt".

July 27, 2019: Released Deluxe Edition of Shawn Mendes

On July 27, 2019, the deluxe edition of the 'Shawn Mendes' album was released, including the songs "If I Can't Have You" and "Señorita".

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August 2019: Partnership with Tim Hortons

In August 2019, Shawn Mendes announced a partnership with Canadian-based food chain Tim Hortons, featuring in a commercial and on beverage cups.

August 2019: Launch of the Shawn Mendes Foundation

In August 2019, Shawn Mendes launched the Shawn Mendes Foundation to empower fans and youth to bring about positive change in the world.

August 26, 2019: "Señorita" Peaked at Number One

On August 26, 2019, "Señorita" by Shawn Mendes and Camila Cabello peaked at number one on the US Billboard Hot 100, becoming Mendes's first chart-topping single.

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September 6, 2019: Shawn Mendes First Rogers Centre Performance

On September 6, 2019, Shawn Mendes had his first performance at the Rogers Centre.

2019: Embarked on Self-Titled World Tour

In 2019, Shawn Mendes embarked on his self-titled world tour and performed at music festivals across Europe, North America, and South America.

2019: "Señorita" Hit Single Release

In 2019, Shawn Mendes released the hit single "Señorita" with Camila Cabello, which peaked atop the US Billboard Hot 100.

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January 8, 2020: Donation to Australian Fire Relief Efforts

On January 8, 2020, Shawn Mendes and his Shawn Mendes Foundation donated an undisclosed sum to causes supporting Australian fire relief efforts.

March 2020: Donation to Toronto's SickKids Foundation

In March 2020, Shawn Mendes and The Shawn Mendes Foundation donated $175,000 to support COVID-19 relief to Toronto's SickKids Foundation.

March 2020: Participation in iHeart Media's Living Room Concert for America and Global Citizen Festival's Together at Home virtual concert

In March 2020, Shawn Mendes participated in iHeart Media's Living Room Concert for America, a benefit to raise awareness and funds for the COVID-19 pandemic. Also in March 2020 and April, he participated in Global Citizen Festival's Together at Home virtual concert to raise awareness and funds for the COVID-19 pandemic.

May 2020: Participation in Black Lives Matter protests

In May 2020, Shawn Mendes, alongside Camila Cabello, joined protests in Miami for racial justice after the murder of George Floyd. He also lent his Instagram to raise the voice of Black activists during May 2020.

September 30, 2020: Announcement of 'Wonder' Album and Single

On September 30, 2020, Shawn Mendes announced the upcoming release of his fourth studio album, 'Wonder', scheduled for December 4. He also announced the release of the album's lead single, also titled "Wonder", on October 2, along with "Intro", the album's first song.

November 16, 2020: Announcement of 'Monster' Single

On November 16, 2020, Shawn Mendes announced the release of "Monster", a collaboration with Justin Bieber and the second single from his album 'Wonder'.

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November 20, 2020: 'Monster' Single and Music Video Release

On November 20, 2020, Shawn Mendes released the single and music video for "Monster", his collaboration with Justin Bieber.

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December 2020: Announcement of Wonder Grants

In December 2020, Shawn Mendes and the Shawn Mendes Foundation, in partnership with Google, announced Wonder Grants to support young changemakers around the world.

2020: Wonder Album Release

In 2020, Shawn Mendes released his fourth studio album, 'Wonder,' making him the youngest male artist to top the Billboard 200 with four studio albums.

January 2021: Partnership with Chipotle for 'Wonder Grants' and 'Shawn Mendes Bowl'

In January 2021, Chipotle announced its partnership with Shawn Mendes and his foundation to launch "Wonder Grants" and a "Shawn Mendes Bowl" on the Chipotle app and website to support young innovators in sustainability. Chipotle donated $1 for every Shawn Mendes Bowl sold toward the foundation.

April 22, 2021: Hosting a NASA video conference with the crew of Expedition 65

On April 22, 2021, Shawn Mendes hosted a NASA video conference with the crew of Expedition 65 on board the International Space Station. The televised event covered a Q&A with students and children about various topics related to Earth Day, such as climate change, Earth observations, and general physics, as well as the astronauts' experience on the space station.

May 2021: Donation to help fight the COVID-19 pandemic in India

In May 2021, Shawn Mendes joined Camila Cabello and Bollywood actors to help fight the COVID-19 pandemic in India during its peak of cases. Mendes donated $50,000 through the organization Give India.

June 2021: Signing an open letter to the United States Congress urging lawmakers to pass the Equality Act

In June 2021, Shawn Mendes, along with several other celebrities, signed an open letter to the United States Congress, urging lawmakers to pass the Equality Act. The artists, including Mendes, said of the Act that it would "protect ... the most marginalized communities".

August 20, 2021: Release of 'Summer of Love' and Executive Producer Role

On August 20, 2021, Shawn Mendes released "Summer of Love" with Tainy. Also that month, it was announced that Mendes would serve as an executive producer for Legendary's TV adaptation of the video game Life Is Strange.

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September 23, 2021: Announcement of Wonder: The World Tour

On September 23, 2021, Shawn Mendes announced his upcoming 'Wonder: The World Tour', spanning North America, the United Kingdom, and Europe.

November 2021: Announcement of split from Camila Cabello

In November 2021, Shawn Mendes and Camila Cabello announced their split.

November 30, 2021: Announcement of 'It'll Be Okay' Single

On November 30, 2021, Shawn Mendes announced the release of his new single, "It'll Be Okay", set for release on December 1.

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March 14, 2022: Start of Wonder: The World Tour

On March 14, 2022, Shawn Mendes began the Wonder: The World Tour at the Royal Arena in Copenhagen.

March 20, 2022: Premiere of 'When You're Gone' at SXSW 2022

On March 20, 2022, Shawn Mendes premiered a new song titled "When You're Gone" during his performance at SXSW 2022.

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October 7, 2022: Release of Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile Movie

On October 7, 2022, the movie Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile, featuring Shawn Mendes as the voice of the title character, was released in the United States.

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February 2023: Brand Ambassador for David Yurman

In February 2023, Shawn Mendes was unveiled as the latest brand ambassador for David Yurman, appearing in the brand's 2023 campaign "Nature’s Artistry" alongside Scarlett Johansson.

June 9, 2023: Release of 'What the Hell Are We Dying For?'

On June 9, 2023, Shawn Mendes released "What the Hell Are We Dying For?" as a charity single.

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June 2023: Collaboration with David Yurman for Foundation Benefit

In June 2023, Shawn Mendes collaborated with David Yurman to design a woven hemp bracelet to benefit his foundation, with 20% of the purchase price going to the foundation.

2023: Briefly dated Sabrina Carpenter

In early 2023, Shawn Mendes briefly dated Sabrina Carpenter.

March 2024: Announcement of Solo Live Performance and New Album

In March 2024, Shawn Mendes announced his first solo live performance since canceling his previous tour. He also revealed that he was working on his fifth studio album.

August 8, 2024: Start of Intimate Concert Tour

On August 8, 2024, Shawn Mendes' intimate concert tour of theatre shows began in Woodstock, New York.

October 2024: Comment about figuring out his sexuality

In late October 2024, Shawn Mendes commented that he was "still figuring out" his sexuality.

October 18, 2024: Initial Release Date of 'Shawn' Album

On October 18, 2024 was the initially announced release date for Shawn Mendes' album titled 'Shawn', however, it was later postponed.

October 24, 2024: Conclusion of Intimate Concert Tour

On October 24, 2024, Shawn Mendes' intimate concert tour concluded in Seattle.

November 2024: Release of 'Shawn' Album

In November 2024, Shawn Mendes' fifth studio album, 'Shawn', was released to positive reviews, exploring the folk genre, although less commercially successful.