“Heart of Gold” is a powerful new single by Canadian singer-songwriter Shawn Mendes, released on November 1, 2024. The song is part of his forthcoming fifth studio album, Shawn, and serves as the fourth single from the album. Mendes collaborated with Mike Sabath, Eddie Benjamin, and Scott Harris on the songwriting and production.
Themes and Inspiration
The track is a heartfelt tribute inspired by the loss of a childhood friend who passed away from a drug overdose. Mendes reflects on grief, regret, and remembrance, expressing a deep sense of longing for his friend. The opening lines capture his sorrow and guilt over not being there when his friend needed him most:
“I didn’t know what you were going through / I’m sorry that I wasn’t there.”
Dedicated to anyone who has faced the loss of a loved one, “Heart of Gold” emphasizes the importance of honoring their lives. During a live performance at the Brooklyn Paramount Theater shortly after the song’s release, Mendes paid tribute to the late Liam Payne, saying:
“This is about mourning those we miss with tears but also celebrating who they were and what they left in this world.”
Musical Composition
“Heart of Gold” is anchored by acoustic guitar, creating an intimate and reflective ambiance that complements its poignant lyrics. The song runs 2 minutes and 51 seconds, delivering an emotional impact within a short duration.
Music Video
Directed by Connor Brashier, the accompanying music video presents Mendes performing against a vibrant backdrop, enhancing the song’s depth and emotional resonance.
Availability
“Heart of Gold” is available for streaming on major platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, allowing fans to experience Mendes’ moving tribute to love, loss, and memory.
Download Links
Shawn Mendes – Heart of Gold Lyrics
[Intro]
(Ooh)
Honestly
It’s been a while since I thought of you
In the end, we didn’t talk much
I didn’t know what you were goin’ through
I’m sorry that I wasn’t there
To hug your mama at the funeral
Brian said he broke down
But he promised it was beautiful
When we were young
We didn’t care
We shot for the stars
I’ll see you up there
You had a heart of gold (Yeah)
You had a heart of gold
You left too soon, it was out of your control
Underneath your skin and bone
You had a heart of gold
I didn’t cry
I didn’t even feel the pain
And then it hit me all at once
When we talked about you yesterday
When we were young (When we were young)
We didn’t care (We didn’t care)
We shot for the stars (We shot for the stars)
I’ll see you up there
You had a heart of gold (Yeah)
You had a heart of gold
You left too soon, it was out of your control
Underneath your skin and bone
You had a heart of gold
When we were young
We didn’t care
We shot for the stars
I’ll see you up there (You had a heart of gold)
When we were young (Ooh)
We didn’t care (We didn’t care)
We shot for the stars
I’ll see you up there
You had a heart of gold
(Yeah)