Singer Shawn Mendes has sparked controversy following the release of his latest track, "WHAT THE H--- ARE WE DYING FOR?" The song's debut coincided with the heavy smoke blanketing New York City due to Canadian wildfires, and the promotional art featuring the hazy NYC skyline drew criticism from fans who accused Mendes of capitalizing on the environmental crisis.

Released on Friday, the song's cover art became a point of contention. Many social media users questioned the timing and imagery, suggesting Mendes was using the disaster for promotional purposes. Some comments highlighted the suffering caused by the wildfires and poor air quality, contrasting it with Mendes' seemingly opportunistic use of the situation for his single's aesthetic. Others questioned whether he had intentionally started the fires as an album promotion tactic.

Despite some fans praising his musical "comeback," many accused Mendes of commercializing a serious environmental issue. The singer mentioned writing the song in upstate New York with friends and stated he would be donating to the Canadian Red Cross to aid wildfire relief efforts.

Lower Manhattan skyline shrouded in wildfire smoke. (ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images)

Times Square engulfed in smoke from Canadian wildfires. (Julia Bonavita/Fox News Digital)

Shawn Mendes had previously canceled his 2022 world tour to prioritize his mental health. (Kevin Mazur via Getty Images)

This new music follows Mendes' 2020 album "Wonder" and a series of individual singles. His 2022 tour cancellation was attributed to mental health concerns, with Mendes explaining the strain of touring was more significant than anticipated.

Fox News Digital reached out to Mendes' representatives for comment but did not receive an immediate response.