The song most people refer to as "Taste" is by Canadian rapper and singer Shawn Mendes. It appears as the opening track on his 2018 album and showcases a polished pop sound with bright guitars and singalong hooks.
While many listeners simply ask who sings Taste, the track also features a co-write credit from Camila Cabello, adding a subtle Latin-tinged flavor to its breezy groove.
| Track Title | Primary Artist | Featured Artist | Album |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taste | Shawn Mendes | Camila Cabello (co-writer) | Shawn Mendes (2018) |
| Taste | Roxanne Emery | None | Non-album single (2019) |
| Taste | L Devine | None | Peer Pressure (2019) |
| Taste | Pia Mia | Tyga | Third and final (TBA) |
| Taste | R3HAB | A Boogie wit da Hoodie, Olivia O'Brien | Head In the Clouds II (2018) |
Song Details and Release Timeline
Release and Chart Performance
Shawn Mendes' Taste was issued as the lead single in August 2018 and quickly climbed to the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. It peaked within the top 5 in Canada and reached the top 20 in several international markets, driven by strong streaming numbers and radio support.
Production and Writing Credits
The track was produced by Teddy Geiger and Shaun Frank, with co-writing from Shawn Mendes, Camila Cabello, Geoff Warburton, and Scott Harris. The collaboration with Camila Cabello influenced the melodic phrasing and added a cross-market appeal that strengthened its global reach.
Live Performances and Media Use
Concert Setlists and TV Appearances
Shawn Mendes regularly features Taste in his live shows, often pairing it with other hits from the same era. The song has also appeared on televised award shows and talk programs, reinforcing its status as a signature track from his 2018 project.
Remixes and Radio Versions
Official remix packages and radio edits have extended the life of Taste beyond the original album cut, offering slightly altered tempos and additional vocal layers that cater to different formats, from mainstream pop to rhythmic playlists.
Behind the Lyrics and Musical Style
Theme and Vocal Delivery
Lyrically, Taste explores the idea of wanting to know someone more deeply, using the metaphor of taste to describe a growing connection. Shawn Mendes delivers the verses with controlled restraint, then powers into a melodic chorus that highlights his matured vocal range.
Instrumentation and Arrangement
The production leans on crisp drums, bright strummed guitars, and layered harmonies, creating a sunny yet emotionally direct atmosphere. This balance of accessibility and depth has helped the song remain relevant in playlists focused on feel-good pop tracks.
Key Takeaways and Recommendations
- Identify the primary artist as Shawn Mendes when searching for Taste on streaming platforms and charts.
- Note the writing contribution from Camila Cabello, which influences the song's melodic style and cross-market appeal.
- Check the specific release year and album to differentiate this version from other songs with the same title.
- Explore official remixes if you prefer a more dance-oriented or hip-hop infused interpretation of the track.
- Verify artist credits before adding tracks to curated playlists to maintain accuracy and listener trust.
FAQ
Reader questions
Who is the main artist credited for Taste on the Billboard Hot 100?
Shawn Mendes is the main artist listed for Taste on the Billboard Hot 100, with Camila Cabello acknowledged as a co-writer but not as a featured vocalist on the chart version.
Does Taste feature any guest vocals, or is it performed solely by Shawn Mendes?
The original album version of Taste is performed solely by Shawn Mendes, and it does not include guest vocals from any other artist despite the writing contribution from Camila Cabello.
Are there official remixes of Taste that include additional artists?
Yes, there are official remix packages of Taste that feature artists such as A Boogie wit da Hoodie on dance and rhythmic edits, expanding the track's reach across streaming and club playlists.
Which other artists have songs titled Taste that listeners might confuse with Shawn Mendes' version?
Other artists with songs titled Taste include Roxanne Emery, L Devine, and Pia Mia featuring Tyga, so listeners should check the artist name to confirm they are hearing the Shawn Mendes version.