UPDATE: The music world is buzzing following the star-studded Songwriter Roundtable held on November 25, 2023, at The Sun Rose in West Hollywood. Renowned artists Ed Sheeran, EJAE, and Hayley Williams shared their creative journeys and the intense pressures of crafting hit songs, captivating an audience eager for insights into today’s music landscape.
Just four months after the groundbreaking success of “Golden” and the viral sensation “KPop Demon Hunters,” which dominated charts for eight weeks and amassed over 1 billion streams, EJAE expressed her disbelief at collaborating with some of the biggest names in music. “This is a happy accident,” EJAE reflected, surrounded by fellow hitmakers like Shaboozey, Raphael Saadiq, and Michelle Zauner.
The roundtable delved deep into the songwriting process, where Sheeran revealed, “I think it’s 50/50.” He shared a surprising twist about a song he created for Pokémon that unexpectedly gained popularity years later in Central Europe. Williams chimed in, emphasizing the unique pressures songwriters face when creating follow-up hits.
The artists discussed their experiences crafting songs for upcoming films, such as Sheeran’s “Drive” for Formula 1 and Saadiq’s “I Lied to You” for Sinners. Williams highlighted her collaboration with David Byrne on the end credit song for The Twits, saying, “There was no way I was going to say no.” The creative synergy was palpable as they explored the challenges of meeting expectations while delivering authentic musical expressions.
EJAE opened up about the pressures of writing music that not only resonates with audiences but also drives film narratives. “With KPop Demon Hunters, it was hard because it was a movie that’s never been done before,” she explained, emphasizing the unique constraints of blending storytelling with music.
The conversation turned to the emotional toll of the industry. Shaboozey admitted that while there is pressure to replicate success, it’s essential to “trust your gut” and have fun with the process. “You could do nothing for the rest of your life,” he said, reflecting on the liberating aspects of achieving a breakthrough hit.
Amid the laughter and camaraderie, EJAE shared a chilling encounter while recording “Golden,” stating, “I saw a ghost there while I was recording.” The anecdote added a layer of intrigue to the session, highlighting the mysterious experiences that can accompany the creative process.
With the music industry constantly evolving, the artists emphasized the importance of authenticity and connection to their roots. “The best songs come from a pure place,” Zauner noted, urging fellow creators to focus on genuine expression rather than commercial expectations.
As the roundtable concluded, it became clear that the pressure to deliver hits is an inherent part of a songwriter’s journey. However, the collective passion for music and storytelling continues to drive these artists to explore new creative avenues.
Fans and industry insiders alike are eagerly watching for the next wave of releases from these powerhouse songwriters. The urgency of their discussions underscores a pivotal moment in the music industry as they navigate the complex landscape of fame, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of the next big hit.
Stay tuned for more updates as these artists embark on their next creative ventures!
