Shawn Mendes & Camila Cabello's "I Know What You Did Last Summer" - Single Review

   It's not inspired by the Jennifer Love Hewitt-starring horror flick from the late 90s, but Canadian singer Shawn Mendes and Fifth Harmony's Camila Cabello team up for an acoustic, drama-fueled duet that could easily have lovers seeing bright red for all the wrong reasons. "I Know What You Did Last Summer", the first single pulled from the upcoming reissue of Mendes' debut album Handwritten, follows the artist's sleeper hit "Stitches" and weeks of social media teasing from both Mendes and Cabello.

   "I Know What You Did Last Summer" is an organic, guitar-driven, acoustic pop collaboration that finds both artists struggling to come to terms with a fading relationship. Neither know how to deal with what's unfolding in front of them however. Carried by conflicting, revealing, conversation-like songwriting and solid vocal performances from Mendes and Cabello, the radio-ready duet should not have any trouble finding traction over the next few weeks.

   Between the destructive lies and secrets, both are starting to see the light in each other's eyes dim. The love is slipping between their fingertips. "I know what you did last summer, just lied to me 'there's no other', I know what you did last summer, tell me where you've been," the two sing together on the track's upbeat yet somber chorus. There may be apologies thrown around, mistakes admitted, but it's clear that the book on the relationship has indeed closed.

   Even though the new single has a somewhat "less than cheery" underlying meaning, it does not take away from the passionate chemistry between the rumored real-life lovers. "I Know What You Did Last Summer" should easily continue Mendes' recent chart winning streak, while also becoming a strong solo platform for Cabello. Fifth Harmony has not been shy about discussing the band's possible future hiatus. Cabello's delicate vocals could carry a full length album down the road.

   With a slight sense of urgency felt in its fast-paced production, "I Know What You Did Last Summer" tells a depressing story of infidelity that's unfortunately crumbled a relationship. Cabello pleads for one more touch, but Mendes appears to be moving on from her cheating ways. The collaboration was somewhat unexpected, but it's nice to hear the new effort play out as a true pop/folk duet. Both artists are rising stars, the single will continue to push them forward.