How Shawn Mendes Secure His Music Label Deal: Covers or Popularity?
Shawn Mendes, the beloved Canadian singer-songwriter, didn't just start out as a pop star. His journey to securing a music label deal was a mix of talent, dedication, and a bit of luck. This article delves into whether his signing with a major record label was due to his success as a cover artist or his newfound popularity. Let’s explore his early days and what happened that spun his career into the global superstar we know today.
A Journey from Vine to Stardom
Shawn Mendes' path to fame didn't begin with original songs. Instead, it started with a platform that many now only remember as a shadow of its former self: Vine. At a young age, Shawn began sharing his cover songs on this now-defunct social media app. His dedication to music and his talent were evident even in those early videos. By the time he had gained 100,000 followers, Shawn had already made a name for himself – albeit catching up to Justin Bieber, one of his early covers inspired.
Justin Bieber's Role in Shawn Mendes’ Early Success
One of Shawn Mendes' most famous cover videos was of Justin Bieber’s hit track, "As Long as You Love Me." This cover helped to garner more attention and was also featured on Justin Bieber's YouTube channel. It was through this exposure that Andrew Gertler, who is currently Shawn's manager, noticed Shawn's talent. Gertler reached out to him, and the rest, as they say, is history.
The Dawn of a New Era: Signing with Island Records
After several calls and multiple rejections from other record labels, Shawn Mendes finally signed with Island Records in 2014. The Island Records label is no stranger to talent, having previously worked with international and now household names like Justin Bieber and Drake. This move secured a significant platform for Shawn to launch his career as a solo artist.
The Offer and the Deal
Shawn Mendes received several offers from different labels before agreeing to sign with Island Records. However, it was the specific deal proposed by Island Records that finally enticed him. The combination of resources, development, and a clear path to success was persuasive enough for Shawn to decide in favor of the Island Records deal.
Lessons from Shawn Mendes' Journey
Shawn Mendes' path to signing a major label deal demonstrates several key lessons:
Independence and Dedication: Shawn's dedication to music and willingness to produce high-quality content on platforms like Vine helped him gain an initial following. This initial success showed record labels that he had a genuine passion and talent for music, which is crucial for any aspiring artist. Chances and Connections: Shawn's exposure to Justin Bieber's "As Long as You Love Me" cover video provided a catalyst for his breakthrough. Connections and opportunities are often unexpected, and leveraging them can be the key to advancing one's career. The Right Move: Shawn's decision to sign with Island Records was grounded in the offer’s comprehensive plan for his career. The right label can provide the resources, support, and networking needed to take an artist to the next level.In conclusion, Shawn Mendes' journey from a young Vine cover artist to a major label signing is a testament to talent, dedication, and smart decision-making. His story serves as a valuable lesson for emerging artists, highlighting the importance of both content and connections in the music industry.