Behind every chart-topping anthem, there’s often a surprising pen at work. From pop icons to rock legends, these artists secretly shaped the hits we can’t stop singing. Here are 14 you probably didn’t know had a hand in writing someone else’s smash.
Adele
Before “Rolling in the Deep,” Adele co-wrote “Alive” for Sia—though Sia ended up recording it herself. Turns out, even powerhouse voices trade hits behind the scenes.
Avril Lavigne
The pop-punk princess helped write Kelly Clarkson’s “Breakaway.” Originally meant for Avril’s debut album, the song became one of Kelly’s defining anthems.
Bruno Mars
Before his own string of hits, Bruno co-wrote CeeLo Green’s “Forget You.” His funky fingerprints are all over that soulful hook.
Chris Stapleton
Before country stardom, Stapleton co-wrote Adele’s “If It Hadn’t Been for Love.” The bluesy track showcases the grit and emotion that later made him a star.
Ed Sheeran
Sheeran co-wrote Justin Bieber’s “Love Yourself.” It’s got that signature Ed mix of tender, sharp, and a little bit savage.
Jessie J
Before her own rise, Jessie J penned Miley Cyrus’s “Party in the U.S.A.” Her pop instincts made it one of the most recognizable songs of the 2010s.
Kesha
While her own hits glittered with rebellion, Kesha helped Britney Spears craft “Till the World Ends.” The lyrics? Pure Kesha chaos in the best way.
Ne-Yo
R&B’s smooth storyteller wrote Rihanna’s “Unfaithful.” The drama and melody show his knack for heartbreak—whether it’s his own or someone else’s.
Pharrell Williams
Pharrell wrote and produced Nelly’s “Hot in Herre.” His genius for irresistible hooks was heating up long before “Happy.”
Prince
Prince penned The Bangles’ “Manic Monday” under the pseudonym Christopher. Only he could turn weekday misery into pop magic.
Ryan Tedder
The OneRepublic frontman wrote Beyoncé’s “Halo.” That soaring melody? Pure Tedder, built for the rafters and the heartstrings.
Sia
Sia’s behind-the-scenes pen helped craft Rihanna’s “Diamonds.” It’s shimmering, spiritual, and unmistakably Sia.
Taylor Swift
Swift wrote “This Is What You Came For” with Calvin Harris—and that famous “Oh-oh-oh” hook? All her.
The Weeknd
He co-wrote Ariana Grande’s “Love Me Harder,” mixing his brooding mood with her powerhouse pop for a perfect R&B crossover.