The Song That Nearly Didn’t Make Mendes’ Album

Shawn Mendes’ latest album, Shawn, released on November 15, 2024, marks a pivotal moment in his career. The introspective collection of 12 tracks offers a vulnerable, stripped-down glimpse into the artist’s personal struggles and growth. However, one song on the album almost didn’t see the light of day—a heartfelt track that Mendes himself debated cutting.

The Almost-Lost Song: “Isn’t That Enough”

“Isn’t That Enough”, a standout track on Shawn, encapsulates Mendes’ reflections on uncertainty, gratitude, and self-worth. The song’s emotional depth and candid lyrics make it a fan favorite, but Mendes revealed in a recent interview that it was the most challenging track to complete.

During an Instagram Q&A following the album’s release, Mendes shared that he struggled with the song’s deeply personal nature. “I kept asking myself, ‘Is this too raw? Too vulnerable?’” he explained. Mendes admitted he feared the song’s themes of self-doubt might come across as “too revealing” for his audience.

The lyrics, which include lines like, “My mother still calls for the news / Isn’t that enough?”, highlight Mendes’ internal battles. While this rawness ultimately made the song resonate with listeners, Mendes said it also made it the hardest to share.

The Story Behind the Creation

The song’s stripped-back production—centered on acoustic guitar and minimalist harmonies—reflects Mendes’ deliberate move away from his pop-heavy roots. Mendes co-wrote “Isn’t That Enough” with longtime collaborator Scott Harris, known for his work on hits like “Treat You Better.” According to Harris, the song evolved during a late-night writing session in Mendes’ Toronto home.

“It was one of those moments where Shawn just let everything out,” Harris said in an interview. “We were both exhausted but decided to keep going, and that’s when it clicked. It was raw, unfiltered, and honest—everything this album stands for.”

Why It Almost Didn’t Make the Cut

Mendes revealed that while finalizing the tracklist, he second-guessed whether “Isn’t That Enough” belonged on the album. After stepping back from the recording process, Mendes worried the song might feel “too small” compared to other tracks.

Fans, however, have embraced the song’s intimacy, praising its relatability and simplicity. Many have taken to social media to share their stories of connection with the lyrics, describing it as one of Mendes’ most authentic pieces.

“Isn’t That Enough”: A Song That Defines the Album

Ultimately, Mendes decided to include the track, recognizing its importance to the overall narrative of Shawn. He describes it as the “heart” of the album, bridging themes of uncertainty and self-acceptance that run throughout.

Critics have noted that “Isn’t That Enough” exemplifies Mendes’ growth as an artist. Gone are the glossy pop anthems of his earlier work; in their place are honest, introspective songs that showcase his evolution.

“Isn’t That Enough” nearly didn’t make the cut, but its inclusion on Shawn has cemented it as one of Mendes’ most powerful songs. Its vulnerability reflects his willingness to take creative risks and explore new dimensions of his artistry. As fans continue to dissect the track’s lyrics and share their connections to it, one thing is clear: sometimes, the songs that almost don’t make it are the ones that leave the biggest impact.