Shawn Mendes What the Hell Are We Dying For? Lyrics
by Aishwarya R
Updated Jun 10, 2023
Shawn Mendes What the Hell Are We Dying For Song
On the eve of June 9, 2023, the music world was caught off guard by a surprise release from none other than Shawn Mendes himself. In a whirlwind of anticipation, Shawn dropped his latest single, "WHAT THE HELL ARE WE DYING FOR?" and set the industry ablaze with its profound message and timely relevance. Announced just hours before its release, the news spread like wildfire, captivating fans and critics alike. The cover art, a haunting depiction of New York City shrouded in an eerie orange haze, immediately captured attention.
Little did everyone know that this striking image held a powerful connection to Shawn's homeland, Canada. Massive wildfires had been wreaking havoc in Canada, ravaging vast expanses of forested land. The resulting smoke cloud traveled across the border, blanketing the iconic city in a surreal atmosphere. It was in this very environment that Shawn, accompanied by his friends, found inspiration and created a song that would speak to the hearts of millions.
As the first notes of "WHAT THE HELL ARE WE DYING FOR?" echoed through speakers and headphones, the listeners were transported into a world of raw emotions and introspection. The track carried an urgency, mirroring the urgency of the situation unfolding in the real world. It was as if the air thick with smoke had seeped into every line, every chord, and every breath of the song. With the combined production talents of Mike Sabath and Shawn Mendes himself, the single soared to new heights.
The lyrics delved into the depths of love, questioning its worth and the reasons for fighting to keep it alive. Shawn's mesmerizing vocals brought these sentiments to life, evoking a palpable sense of vulnerability and confusion. "What the hell are we dying for?" became the rallying cry, echoing in the minds of listeners as they grappled with their own relationships and the tumultuous state of the world. Shawn's poignant lyrics, crafted in a single day of fervent creativity, struck a chord with the masses, tapping into their shared fears and uncertainties.
In a time when the world was in desperate need of solace and reflection, Shawn Mendes delivered a musical masterpiece. "WHAT THE HELL ARE WE DYING FOR?" became more than just a song; it became a symbol of resilience, empathy, and a call to action. It reminded us that even in the face of destruction, love and understanding could still prevail. As the song reverberated across airwaves and streaming platforms, it ignited conversations, sparked introspection, and united people in a shared experience.
Shawn Mendes had once again proven his ability to capture the essence of the human condition and turn it into a melodic masterpiece. With "WHAT THE HELL ARE WE DYING FOR?" Shawn Mendes took a snapshot of the world in turmoil and transformed it into a hauntingly beautiful piece of art. It was a testament to the power of music and its ability to heal, inspire, and make us question our place in the grand scheme of things.
Shawn Mendes What the Hell Are We Dying For? (Lyrics)
[Verse 1]
Smoke in the air, the city's burnin' down
I wanna speak, but I don't make a sound
Locked in my mind, you're all I think about (Mm)
I wanna save us, but I don't know how
[Chorus]
If we don't love like we used to
If we don't care like we used to
What the hell are we dying for?
If it doesn't cut like it used to
If you're not mine and I'm not yours
What the hell are we dying for?
[Verse 2]
I see it in the news, I see it in your eyes, ooh
I try to let you go, then I choke, I change my mind
(Change my mind, ooh)
Let's face thе truth, I'm terrified (Ooh, ooh)
[Chorus]
If we don't lovе like we used to
If we don't care like we used to
What the hell are we dying for?
If it doesn't cut like it used to
If you're not mine and I'm not yours
What the hell are we dying for?
[Bridge]
Livin' without you
Is not livin' at all
[Chorus]
If we don't love like we used to
And we don't care like we used to
What the hell are we dying for?
If it doesn't cut like it used to (Doesn't cut)
If you're not mine and I'm not yours (I'm not yours)
What the hell are we dying for?
[Outro]
Livin' without you
Is not livin' at all
Livin' without you (Baby)
Is not livin' at all
So what the hell are we dying for?
Lose Yourself with Fading Relationship behind Shawn Mendes New Song
The song "What the Hell Are We Dying For" by Shawn Mendes explores themes of lost love, confusion, and the fear of being without someone who was once an important part of your life. In the first verse, the lyrics describe a sense of chaos and despair. The city is burning, but the narrator feels unable to express themselves or find a solution. They are trapped in their thoughts, consumed by thoughts of the person they love. The narrator wants to save the relationship, but they don't know how.
The chorus poses a question about the purpose of continuing a relationship that has lost its love and care. The narrator wonders why they would continue to endure the pain and hardship if the relationship no longer brings the same joy and fulfillment as before. The line "If it doesn't cut like it used to" suggests that the emotional intensity and connection have diminished. The narrator questions the point of holding onto a relationship where they no longer feel a deep emotional bond.
In the second verse, the lyrics mention seeing the state of the world reflected in the news and in the eyes of the person they love. It seems the narrator has tried to let go and move on, but they find it difficult and often change their mind. The line "Let's face the truth, I'm terrified" expresses the fear of being alone and without the person they care about.
The bridge emphasizes the importance of the person in the narrator's life. They state that living without this person feels like not living at all, highlighting the significant impact the relationship has on their overall well-being and happiness.
The chorus is repeated, emphasizing the questioning and uncertainty about the future of the relationship. The repeated line "What the hell are we dying for?" emphasizes the confusion and frustration felt by the narrator regarding the current state of their relationship. In the outro, the lyrics reiterate the idea that living without the person they love is not truly living. The repetition of "Livin' without you is not livin' at all" reinforces the central theme of the song.
"What the Hell Are We Dying For" explores the complexities of a relationship that has lost its spark and leaves the narrator questioning the purpose of staying together if the love and care have faded. It delves into the emotional turmoil, confusion, and fear of losing someone who once meant everything to them.
Shawn Mendes What the Hell Are We Dying For Song Details
Song Title
What the Hell Are We Dying For?
Artist
Shawn Mendes
Release Date
June 9, 2023
Producers
Mike Sabath & Shawn Mendes
Themes
Lost love, confusion, questioning the purpose of a fading relationship
Musical Style
Pop
Length
Approximately 3 minutes and 15 seconds
About Shawn Mendes
Shawn Peter Raul Mendes, a beacon of passion and talent, emerged onto the music scene with a force that ignited hearts worldwide. Born on August 8, 1998, this Canadian pop singer-songwriter captured the essence of a generation through his soul-stirring melodies and heartfelt lyrics. In 2013, Mendes unleashed his gifts upon the world, serenading audiences with captivating song covers on the beloved video sharing platform, Vine.
Like a wildfire, his talent spread, captivating hearts and minds, until it caught the attention of artist manager Andrew Gertler and Island Records A&R Ziggy Chareton. They recognized the fire within him and swiftly sealed the deal, propelling Mendes into the spotlight. With a burning desire to share his artistry, Mendes unveiled his self-titled debut EP in 2014, a glimpse into the depths of his musical prowess. The world was captivated, and they yearned for more.
In 2015, he answered their calls with his debut studio album, "Handwritten," a masterpiece that soared to the top of the US Billboard 200. At such a tender age, Mendes etched his name into history, becoming one of the rare few to debut at number one before turning 18. The power of his music resonated globally, as the single "Stitches" reached the pinnacle of charts in the UK, and conquered the top 10 in the US and Canada.
Mendes' brilliance continued to shine with his second album, "Illuminate," in 2016. Once again, the heavens opened, as the album claimed the number one spot on the US charts. His magnetic presence electrified audiences, with his singles "Treat You Better" and "There's Nothing Holdin' Me Back" capturing the hearts of millions across the globe. Undeterred by his soaring success, Mendes fearlessly embarked on his self-titled third studio album in 2018. With the lead single, "In My Blood," he bared his soul, unveiling a vulnerable side that resonated deeply with fans.
The album's unprecedented number one debut in the US made him the third-youngest artist to achieve such a feat. The world could not deny the power of his musical prowess. In 2019, Mendes unleashed his enchanting hits "If I Can't Have You" and "Señorita," the latter propelling him to the summit of the US Billboard Hot 100. The world was bewitched by his every note, and his music became a soundtrack to countless hearts.
With the release of his fourth studio album, "Wonder," in 2020, Mendes shattered barriers, claiming the title of the youngest male artist ever to conquer the Billboard 200 with four studio albums. His music, like an ethereal force, transcended boundaries and united souls across the globe. Recognized for his exceptional talent, Mendes stands adorned with accolades. Thirteen SOCAN awards, ten MTV Europe Music Awards, eight Juno Awards, eight iHeartRadio MMVAs, two American Music Awards, and nominations for Grammy and Brit Awards attest to his remarkable impact.
In 2018, Time Magazine recognized his influence, placing him among the 100 most influential people in the world. Shawn Mendes, a force of nature, continues to inspire and ignite passion with every verse he sings. With each melodic masterpiece, he invites us into a realm of raw emotions and unbridled artistry. His music, like a flame that refuses to be extinguished, burns brightly in our souls, forever etching his name in the annals of musical greatness.
Shawn Mendes What the Hell Are We Dying For? Lyrics - FAQs
The song was released on June 9, 2023.
The song was produced by Mike Sabath and Shawn Mendes.
"What the Hell Are We Dying For?" explores themes of lost love, confusion, and questioning the purpose of a fading relationship.
Yes, the song was written and recorded in New York City while Shawn Mendes and his friends were exposed to the hazardous wildfire smoke originating from Canada, which influenced the song's creation.
The song falls under the pop genre, which is a signature style of Shawn Mendes' music.