Shawn Mendes Opened His 2025 Tour With a Bang But One Song Choice Has Fans Asking What It Really Means

Shawn Mendes officially launched his 2025 On the Road Again Tour in Boston with a powerful performance that celebrated both his early classics and new material from his latest album, Shawn. The setlist, revealed after the first U.S. show at TD Garden, demonstrates Mendes’ ability to blend nostalgia with growth, giving fans an intimate yet stadium-sized experience. Songs like “There’s Nothing Holdin’ Me Back”, “Stitches”, and “Treat You Better” reminded the audience why they fell in love with his music years ago, while fresh tracks like “Heart of Gold” and “Isn’t That Enough” showcased his evolving artistry. The inclusion of surprise additions such as “Heavy” keeps fans on edge, as the setlist may shift from city to city. Beyond the music, Mendes’ Boston concert was a statement of resilience and renewal, marking his grand return to touring after time away from the spotlight. Fans left the arena energized, hopeful, and more connected than ever to Mendes’ journey. This tour is more than a concert series—it’s a reflection of Mendes’ decade-long career and the emotional bond he shares with millions worldwide.

What Songs Did Shawn Mendes Perform in Boston?

The opening night in Boston treated fans to a career-spanning setlist. Mendes began with “A House Full Of Love”, immediately creating a warm connection with the crowd before diving into high-energy staples like “There’s Nothing Holdin’ Me Back” and “Treat You Better.”

Other highlights included:

“Wonder”

“Monster”

“Lost in Japan”

“Señorita”

“Mercy”

“Youth”

“Never Be Alone”

“Stitches”

“If I Can’t Have You”

“It’ll Be Okay”

“Why Why Why”

“In My Blood” (the emotional closer)

The performance also featured “Heart of Gold” and “Isn’t That Enough,” two fresh additions from his new album, proving that Mendes’ latest work holds up alongside his biggest hits.

Why the Addition of “Heavy” Matters

One of the biggest surprises of the Boston setlist was the addition of “Heavy”, a song that had not been consistently featured in earlier rehearsals. Its inclusion signals that Mendes may continue to adjust his setlist as the tour unfolds.

For fans, this means no two shows will be entirely alike. The decision adds unpredictability and excitement, making the tour feel alive and responsive to each city’s energy. It also highlights Mendes’ confidence in experimenting with his catalog, blending deeper cuts with chart-topping hits.

How Did Fans React to the Boston Show?

Fans at TD Garden described the atmosphere as electric. The crowd erupted during anthems like “Stitches” and “Mercy,” while newer songs such as “Heart of Gold” were met with curiosity and excitement. Social media buzzed with clips and commentary, praising Mendes’ vocals, stage presence, and his ability to connect emotionally even in a large arena setting.

One fan posted, “Hearing ‘In My Blood’ live again gave me chills. It felt like Shawn was telling us his whole story in one night.” Another wrote, “The mix of old and new was perfect—he really gave us everything.”

What Does the Setlist Say About Shawn Mendes’ Career?

The On the Road Again Tour setlist paints a clear picture of Mendes’ career journey. Early hits like “Treat You Better” remind fans of his teenage breakout, while songs such as “Wonder” and “It’ll Be Okay” reflect his more mature, introspective songwriting phase.

By closing with “In My Blood,” Mendes signals that resilience remains the heartbeat of his artistry. The track, often considered his most personal anthem, resonates deeply as he reintroduces himself to fans after time away from the stage.

What Makes This Tour Different From the Past?

Unlike previous tours, which leaned heavily on specific album cycles, the 2025 On the Road Again Tour serves as a celebration of Shawn Mendes’ full catalog. It marks a new chapter, one that balances nostalgia with evolution.

Visually, the show is grander, with cinematic backdrops, dynamic lighting, and moments of stripped-down intimacy where Mendes performed solo with his guitar. This combination created a concert experience that was both stadium-sized and deeply personal.

Looking Ahead: What Can Fans Expect in Other Cities?

If the Boston performance is any indication, fans attending upcoming shows can expect a blend of consistency and surprise. Core songs like “Stitches”, “There’s Nothing Holdin’ Me Back”, and “Treat You Better” are likely to stay, while tracks like “Heavy” could rotate in and out.

This flexibility makes each stop on the On the Road Again Tour unique, encouraging fans to follow along with setlist updates and even attend multiple shows. For Mendes, it’s a chance to keep performances fresh and interactive, reinforcing his reputation as one of today’s most dynamic live performers.

A Statement of Renewal and Connection

The Boston kickoff proved that Shawn Mendes is not just returning to touring — he is redefining what his live shows mean. The setlist acts as both a look back at his early success and a glimpse into his future direction, balancing heartfelt intimacy with stadium-level energy.

For fans, this tour is a celebration of a decade-long bond. For Mendes, it’s a declaration that his artistry continues to grow, evolve, and inspire.

How Did Shawn Mendes Feel About Returning to the Stage?

For Shawn Mendes, the Boston concert was more than just the start of a new tour — it was a deeply emotional return to the stage after time away from the spotlight. Mendes spoke briefly to the crowd, thanking fans for their patience and unwavering support during his break. His voice cracked as he told the audience, “I’ve missed this so much. Being here with all of you feels like coming home.”

Throughout the night, Mendes’ emotions were visible. During “It’ll Be Okay”, he appeared visibly moved, closing his eyes as thousands of fans sang every word back to him. When performing “In My Blood”, he paused before the final chorus, holding back tears as the arena lit up with phone lights. These moments made it clear that Mendes was not just performing — he was reconnecting with his fans on a personal, vulnerable level.

The show highlighted Mendes’ gratitude and resilience, proving that this tour is not only about music but also about healing, growth, and the joy of rediscovering his passion for live performance.