Treat You Better – Shawn Mendes

Released on June 3, 2016, “Treat You Better” is a heartfelt pop ballad by Canadian singer-songwriter Shawn Mendes. As the lead single from his second studio album, “Illuminate,” the song quickly garnered attention for its emotive lyrics, catchy melody, and Shawn’s passionate vocal delivery. Accompanied by a poignant music video directed by Ryan Pallotta, “Treat You Better” became a commercial success and solidified Mendes’s position as a prominent artist in the pop music scene. This article delves into the creation, themes, and impact of “Treat You Better,” exploring how it resonated with listeners and contributed to Mendes’s rise to stardom.

The Creation of “Treat You Better”
“Treat You Better” was written by Shawn Mendes, Teddy Geiger, and Scott Harris. The song’s creation was a collaborative effort, with Geiger and Harris playing crucial roles in crafting the melody and production. Mendes, known for his emotional and relatable songwriting, drew inspiration from personal experiences and observations of unhealthy relationships.

The song’s production features a blend of pop and rock elements, characterized by its driving guitar riff, rhythmic percussion, and layered vocals. The polished production, handled by Geiger and Dan Romer, complements Mendes’s expressive voice, allowing the song’s emotional depth to shine through.

Themes of Love, Respect, and Empowerment
“Treat You Better” centers on themes of love, respect, and empowerment. The lyrics tell the story of a young man who sees the woman he loves in an unhappy and possibly abusive relationship. He promises to treat her better than her current partner, expressing his desire to provide the love and respect she deserves.

The song’s chorus, with its repeated refrain “I know I can treat you better than he can / And any girl like you deserves a gentleman,” highlights the protagonist’s earnest plea for the woman’s affection and emphasizes the importance of being treated with kindness and respect in a relationship.

The song also carries a message of empowerment, encouraging listeners to recognize their worth and not settle for less than they deserve. The protagonist’s determination to prove himself as a better partner serves as a reminder that love should be based on mutual respect and care.

The Official Music Video
The official music video for “Treat You Better,” directed by Ryan Pallotta, further amplifies the song’s message with its compelling narrative and visual storytelling. The video depicts a young woman in an abusive relationship, struggling with her emotions and the turmoil caused by her partner’s behavior.

The video’s opening scenes show the woman and her boyfriend arguing, with the boyfriend displaying aggressive and controlling behavior. Mendes, playing the role of a concerned friend, watches from a distance, clearly troubled by the situation. His performance captures the protagonist’s empathy and determination to support the woman he cares about.

As the video progresses, the woman’s distress becomes more apparent, with scenes depicting her alone and in tears. Mendes’s character attempts to reach out to her, offering comfort and support. The video’s climax features a confrontation between Mendes and the woman’s boyfriend, symbolizing the protagonist’s willingness to stand up for the woman and challenge the toxic relationship.

The video’s closing scenes show the woman finally leaving her boyfriend, symbolizing her decision to take control of her life and seek a healthier, more respectful relationship. The video’s powerful imagery and emotional narrative resonate with viewers, enhancing the song’s impact and message.

Reception and Impact
“Treat You Better” received widespread acclaim from both critics and fans, praised for its heartfelt lyrics, catchy melody, and Mendes’s passionate vocal performance. The song achieved significant commercial success, reaching the top ten in multiple countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. It was certified multi-platinum in several regions and became one of Mendes’s signature hits.

The music video also played a crucial role in the song’s success, amassing millions of views on YouTube and becoming a viral sensation. The video’s emotional narrative and powerful message resonated with viewers, enhancing the song’s cultural significance.

Cultural Significance and Legacy
“Treat You Better” holds a significant place in contemporary pop music, symbolizing the power of emotionally charged and socially conscious songwriting. Its themes of love, respect, and empowerment struck a chord with a wide audience, demonstrating the potential for pop music to address important issues and inspire positive change.

For Shawn Mendes, “Treat You Better” marked a defining moment in his career. The song showcased his growth as a songwriter and artist, earning him widespread recognition and solidifying his position as a leading figure in the pop music scene. The success of “Treat You Better” paved the way for the release of his critically acclaimed album “Illuminate,” which further established his presence in the music industry.

Conclusion
“Treat You Better” by Shawn Mendes is more than just a chart-topping hit; it is a heartfelt and empowering anthem that explores themes of love, respect, and self-worth. With its catchy melody, emotive lyrics, and compelling music video, the song captured the hearts of millions and left an indelible mark on the music industry. As a testament to the power of emotionally charged and socially conscious songwriting, “Treat You Better” remains a defining moment in Mendes’s career, reflecting his artistry and the universal themes of love, respect, and empowerment.

[Verse 1]
I won’t lie to you
I know he’s just not right for you
And you can tell me if I’m off, but I see it on your face
When you say that he’s the one that you want
And you’re spending all your time in this wrong situation
And anytime you want it to stop

[Chorus]
I know I can treat you better than he can
And any girl like you deserves a gentleman
Tell me, why are we wasting time
On all your wasted cryin’
When you should be with me instead?
I know I can treat you better
Better than he can

[Verse 2]
I’ll stop time for you
The second you say you’d like me to
I just wanna give you the loving that you’re missing
Baby, just to wake up with you
Would be everything I need and this could be so different
Tell me what you want to do

[Chorus]
‘Cause I know I can treat you better than he can
And any girl like you deserves a gentleman
Tell me, why are we wasting time
On all your wasted cryin’
When you should be with me instead?
I know I can treat you better
Better than he can
Better than he can
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[Bridge]
Give me a sign
Take my hand, we’ll be fine
Promise I won’t let you down
Just know that you don’t
Have to do this alone
Promise I’ll never let you down

Shawn Mendes