Photos and review by Tegan Chambers-Mulcahy
After a meaningful hiatus, Shawn Mendes returned to London with electrifying energy on his “On The Road Again Tour”, where he sold-out the O2 Arena. Throughout the show Shawn presented a compelling performance, alongside his band, to create an insane atmosphere within the Arena. Mendes had curated a setlist that spanned of both his most nostalgic hits and reflective new material which left fans engrossed in his performance. Including his early crowd pleasers such as, ‘There’s Nothing Holding Me Back’, ’Lost In Japan’ and ’Stitches’, alongside his recent work like, ‘Why Why Why’ and ‘Heart Of Gold’, gave fans of all ages, from new to old, something to enjoy. Throughout, his show was filled with emotion, especially seen during particular moments, such as the crowds enthusiasm throughout his performance of ’Stitches’ which left Shawn near tears. The incredible atmosphere and enthusiasm did however carry on past his nostalgic tracks and carried into his newest releases, conveying the loyalty of Shawn’s audience and the evolution of his music and own personal growth. Within his performance, Mendes reflected his love for his fans through his crowd interactions, from jumping into crowds mid-song, to taking the stage in a fans pink cowboy hat to sing ’Never Be Alone’. You could even say that his surprise guest, Niall Horan, also conveyed his appreciation for his fans, giving them something extra and unique to enjoy. The two performed Niall’s song, ’This town’, which was seen to be deeply enjoyed by the crowd, which was expected as Shawn’s initial introduction of Niall, left the Arena in an eruption of screams.
Throughout the performance, Shawn switched between his piano and guitar, giving his fans heartfelt renditions of his music, injecting immense energy into his pop anthems. I truly believe that Shawn’s stage presence, alongside his emotional delivery, really carried the night and pushed it to be as enjoyable as it was. To close the night, confetti poured into the crowd while Mendes jumped down to the barriers and said his goodbye to fans. This really shows his appreciation towards his fanbase and truly adds deeper connection between him and his audience, leaving fans feeling even more involved with the show and understood by Shawn himself. I felt that the dramatic fashion of the confetti racing down and surrounding the audience, made it feel as if you were enveloped within the performance, making it even more surreal to be a part of. It felt more like friends and family enjoying a performance, rather than just a show.
Shawn Mendes’s London show truly was a 5 star return, proving to be more than just a show, but a triumphant return to form. The depth of new music and nostalgia mixing together, alongside the raw connection between Shawn and his audience, truly expressed the importance of live music and bringing everyone together. ‘On The Road Again’ truly was a reminder of what music is all about and shows just how much Shawn really brings to the industry.
More photos here