Shawn Mendes is working through his very open breakup with singer Camila Cabello with his new single When You’re Gone.

Mendes called the up-tempo song therapeutic and said it was about “the whole point of processing a breakup and what it is and the memories and all these feelings starting to flow.”

She added, “I think after the breakup happened, I realized how much I was protected by this person and that I had to be able to protect that part of me too.

“And it’s a big moment, and I think you don’t really get to see those weak points are vulnerable points that you need to cherish and love until they open up.”

The hook of the song features the lyrics “It’s hard for me to let you go, I’m just trying to hold on…”. When asked if he stayed, Mendes replied: “No, I’m not staying.”

Mendes and Cabello announced the end of their three-year relationship in November 2021 on Instagram.

While releasing music is always nerve-racking for the 23-year-old, he said he’s delighted fans are hooked on the song released last Thursday (31 March) by Island Records, part of Universal Music Group (UMG.US).

In June, Mendes will embark on the 86 arena Wonder: The World Tour in Portland, Oregon.

The Canadian says touring is a creative life force that empowers the part of him that is capable of creating music and being artistic, which is something he shows in his music video for When You’re Gone.

“I just wanted to like the movie and put it out there being like, ‘Guys, this is it.’ You know, it’s been a minute.”

READ ALSO: Single But Not Social: Camila Cabello Focuses On Friendship After Breaking Up with Former Shawn Mendes