Songwriter Roundtable: Ghosts, Dreams, and Million-Stream Hits

A recent gathering of acclaimed songwriters revealed the unique challenges and inspirations behind this year's biggest hits. EJAE, whose song 'Golden' became a global phenomenon, shared her disbelief and highlighted the pressure of creating a follow-up success. The discussion included surprising elements, such as the potential for a studio ghost to influence EJAE's vocal performance, leading to her best singing day.

The participating artists, including Ed Sheeran and Hayley Williams, delved into their creative processes. Sheeran recounted the unexpected popularity of an old Pokémon song years after its release, while others discussed how dreams or childhood phrases can spark hit melodies. The conversation underscored the unpredictable nature of music creation and the varied paths to achieving widespread recognition.

The roundtable also explored the psychological aspects of songwriting, including the intense pressure to replicate success. Shaboozey emphasized the importance of having fun and trusting one's instincts, especially after a major hit. Despite the demands of the industry, the artists expressed a shared commitment to continuous musical creation, finding motivation in pushing creative boundaries.