In the new issue of Music Week, we explore the world of songwriting from all angles. One of the most interesting developments in how country music is leading the way in turning behind-the-scenes songwriters into successful artists. Not that country is alone in doing this, mind. Pop music has its fair share of writers turned superstars, too...
JULIA MICHAELS
Julia Michaels has written for everyone from Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez to Linkin Park. And now she’s making hits for herself. Her single Issues has sold 351,017 copies to date according to Official Charts Company data.
CHARLI XCX
After releasing her debut four years ago, Charli XCX went on to write for Icona Pop, Neon Jungle and Buckcherry before her solo career broke big in 2015. Her most recent credit is Gravity on Blondie’s comeback Pollinator.
RYAN TEDDER
Before Ryan Tedder’s OneRepublic band started making waves, this talentedfrontman was already one of pop’s leading songwriters. His long list of credits include work with Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, Beyoncé, and Adele.
SIA
Though she now has the entire world dancing around like the kid in the Chandelier video to her solo music, Sia remains one of pop’s dominant songwriters, making hits for Beyoncé, Rihanna, Britney Spears and Katy Perry.
BRUNO MARS
A shining star both on the global stage and behind the scenes in the studio, Bruno Mars has employed his songwriting skills on tracks for the varied likes of Flo Rida, Cee Lo Green, Sugababes and Adam Lambert.
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