Every legendary song has a story—about its creation, its songwriter, and the artist who made it famous. If you’re getting into songwriting, knowing where these classics came from might just inspire your next big hit.

Let’s get into the history behind some of the most iconic songs ever written and some of the newer ones too.

“Espresso” – Written & Sung by Sabrina Carpenter

Written and performed by Sabrina Carpenter, Espresso is a playful, upbeat track that showcases Carpenter’s charisma and confident delivery. Released in 2024, the song features witty lyrics and a lighthearted tone, with themes of self-assurance and irresistible charm. 

I bet you didn’t know that Amy Allen co-wrote all tracks on Sabrina Carpenter’s album Short n’ Sweet, including the hit singles “Espresso” and “Please Please Please.” Her collaboration with Tate McRae on “Greedy” also garnered widespread acclaim. Allen’s exceptional songwriting work led her to top Billboard’s Hot 100 Songwriters chart for seven consecutive weeks and earned her four Grammy nominations, including Songwriter of the Year.

“My Way” – Written by Paul Anka, Sung by Frank Sinatra

Originally a French song titled “Comme d’habitude,” Paul Anka rewrote the lyrics for an English audience, tailoring them specifically for Frank Sinatra. The song became one of Sinatra’s defining anthems, with its theme of living life on one’s own terms. It has since been covered by countless artists, including Elvis Presley and Sid Vicious.

“God’s Plan” – Written by Drake, Boi-1da, Noah “40” Shebib & Cardo

Written by Drake, Boi-1da, Noah “40” Shebib, and Cardo, God’s Plan is a motivational hip-hop song that reflects on success, gratitude, and divine intervention. 

Released in 2018, the song features a laid-back yet uplifting beat, with Drake rapping about his journey and the challenges he has overcome. The music video, where Drake gives away nearly $1 million to people in need, further reinforced the song’s themes of generosity and fate, making it one of his most impactful hits.

“Valerie” – Written by The Zutons, Made Famous by Amy Winehouse

Originally released by The Zutons in 2006, “Valerie” found massive success when Mark Ronson and Amy Winehouse covered it in 2007. Winehouse’s version brought a jazzier, more soulful spin to the track, making it a timeless hit.

“Die with a Smile” by Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars

This collaboration between Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars was released on August 16, 2024. The song was co-written by Gaga, Mars, Dernst “D’Mile” Emile II, Andrew Watt, and James Fauntleroy.

Blending pop-soul and soft rock elements, the track achieved significant commercial success, topping the Billboard Global 200 chart for nine weeks and reaching number two on the UK Singles Chart. 

“Hallelujah” – Written by Leonard Cohen, Popularised by Jeff Buckley

You may recognise this song from Shrek, but Leonard Cohen actually wrote “Hallelujah” in 1984. However, it didn’t gain widespread popularity until Jeff Buckley’s haunting 1994 cover. His stripped-back, emotionally raw version is often considered the definitive take on the song.

“Yes, And?” – Written by Grande, Max Martin, and Ilya Salmanzadeh, Sung by Ariana Grande

“Yes, And?” is a song by American singer Ariana Grande, released on January 12, 2024, as the lead single from her seventh studio album, Eternal Sunshine. The track was co-written and produced by Grande, Max Martin, and Ilya Salmanzadeh. 

Musically, it blends house, pop, and dance elements, drawing inspiration from Madonna’s 1990 hit “Vogue” and the ballroom culture. Lyrically, the song addresses themes of self-confidence and resilience, responding to negative press and public scrutiny Grande faced between 2020 and 2023. 

“Amazing Grace” – Written by John Newton

If you’ve attended a church service it’s likely you’ll be familiar with this song. This hymn dates back to 1779, written by John Newton, a former slave trader turned clergyman. “Amazing Grace” has become one of the most performed and beloved gospel songs in history, covered by artists like Aretha Franklin and Elvis Presley.

“Islands in the Stream” – Written by the Bee Gees, Sung by Kenny Rogers & Dolly Parton

The Bee Gees originally wrote “Islands in the Stream” for Marvin Gaye but later reworked it as a country duet for Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton. Their 1983 version became one of the biggest duets of all time.

“Blank Space” – Written by Taylor Swift & Max Martin

Hello Swifties! I am sure you’re familiar with this one. Written by Taylor Swift and Max Martin, Blank Space is a satirical take on the media’s portrayal of Swift’s romantic life. Released in 2014 as part of her 1989 album, the song presents an exaggerated version of Swift as a possessive, unpredictable lover, playing into the “crazy ex-girlfriend” stereotype.

“House of the Rising Sun” – Traditional Folk Song, Popularised by The Animals

The origins of “House of the Rising Sun” are murky, but it dates back to at least the 1930s. The Animals’ 1964 rock version became the definitive rendition, with Eric Burdon’s deep, brooding vocals making it legendary.

“Blinded by Grace” – Sung by Stormzy

This powerful and reflective track was written solely by Stormzy. It’s part of his acclaimed Gang Signs & Prayer album, where he addresses themes of faith, personal growth, and spirituality, with a blend of gospel and grime influences.

“You’ll Never Walk Alone” – Written by Rodgers and Hammerstein, Popularised by Gerry & The Pacemakers

Originally from the 1945 musical Carousel, this song became an anthem for Liverpool Football Club when Gerry & The Pacemakers covered it in 1963. It’s now one of the most famous football chants worldwide.

“Birds of a Feather” – Sung by Billie Eilish

“Birds of a Feather” is a song by American singer Billie Eilish, released in 2024. The track was co-written by Billie Eilish and her brother Finneas O’Connell. It features Eilish’s signature haunting vocals and introspective lyrics, exploring themes of isolation and connection. The song achieved significant chart success, reaching number five on the Billboard Hot 100.

“Somewhere Over the Rainbow” – Written by Harold Arlen & Yip Harburg, Sung by Judy Garland

Written for The Wizard of Oz (1939), this song became synonymous with Judy Garland but it was actually written by Harold Arlen & Yip Harburg. Its dreamy lyrics about escaping to a better place have resonated across generations.

Did you know that in the movie, Wicked, the song is referenced multiple times? It’s a nice nod to the origins of the story.

“Pink Pony Club” – Sung by Chappell Roan 

This song was co-written by Chappell Roan and Dan Nigro. Released in 2023 the song blends pop and indie influences and features Roan’s unique storytelling. It paints a vivid picture of a surreal, empowering club, using it as a metaphor for embracing individuality and freedom. 

The song has been praised for its bold, catchy chorus and its exploration of themes like self-expression and defiance against societal norms. Roan’s raw and emotive vocal performance, paired with Dan Nigro’s production (who has worked with Olivia Rodrigo), made “Pink Pony Club” a standout moment in her discography.

“Happy Birthday to You” – Written by Patty & Mildred Hill

We all know this song. Maybe you know it in English, or a different language, but the tune is almost always the same.

The most famous song in the world was penned by sisters Patty and Mildred Hill in 1893. Originally titled “Good Morning to All,” it evolved into the birthday anthem we all know today.

“Lose Control” – Sung by Teddy Swims

This soulful track, released in 2023, was co-written by Teddy Swims, Ammo, Julian Bunetta, Infamous, and Mikky Ekko. The song blends R&B and pop influences and showcases Swims’ powerful, emotional vocal performance. The lyrics revolve around losing control in the midst of a relationship, capturing the vulnerability and intensity of emotions.

“Nothing Compares 2 U” – Written by Prince, Sung by Sinéad O’Connor

Prince originally wrote this song for his side project, The Family, in 1985. However, Sinéad O’Connor’s 1990 version turned it into a heartbreaking global hit.

“Too Sweet” by Hozier

This track, released in 2024, was co-written by Sergiu Gherman, Hozier, Bēkon, Peter Gonzales, Stuart Johnson, and Tyler Reese. It features Hozier’s signature soulful style, exploring themes of desire and love with poetic lyrics and a rich, layered production.

“Halo” – Written by Beyoncé, Ryan Tedder & Evan Bogart

Written by Beyoncé, Ryan Tedder, and Evan Bogart, Halo is a soaring ballad that captures the feeling of unconditional love and admiration. Released in 2009 as part of Beyoncé’s I Am… Sasha Fierce album, the song’s ethereal production and emotional lyrics convey a sense of gratitude for a love that feels almost divine. With its powerful vocal performance and cinematic quality, Halo remains one of Beyoncé’s top songs.

“Thriller” – Written by Rod Temperton, Sung by Michael Jackson

Rod Temperton, a British songwriter, wrote this spooky pop masterpiece for Michael Jackson’s Thriller album. With its eerie lyrics and iconic music video  (let’s be honest it’s more of a short film than a music video), it became the best-selling album of all time.

“Unchained Melody” – Written by Alex North & Hy Zaret, Sung by The Righteous Brothers

Originally written for a 1955 prison film titled Unchained, this song found true fame when The Righteous Brothers recorded it in 1965. It later became even more famous after appearing in Ghost (1990).

“Not Like Us” – Written & Sung by Kendrick Lamar

This song is all over the place – especially after Lamar performed it for the entire world at the Super Bowl Halftime Show in 2025.

Written and performed by Kendrick Lamar, Not Like Us is a hard-hitting diss track aimed at fellow rapper Drake. Released in 2024, the song features sharp lyricism and a beat that blends West Coast influences with a modern, energetic production. 

Lamar uses the track to take jabs at his rival, asserting his dominance in the rap game while delivering a performance filled with confidence and intensity.

“Bridge Over Troubled Water” – Written by Paul Simon, Sung by Simon & Garfunkel

Paul Simon wrote this gospel-influenced ballad, but it was Art Garfunkel’s soaring vocals that gave it an emotional weight. Released in 1970, it remains one of the duo’s most powerful tracks.

“Umbrella” – Written by The-Dream, Christopher Stewart, Kuk Harrell & Jay-Z, Sung by Rihanna

Written by The-Dream, Christopher Stewart, Kuk Harrell, and Jay-Z, Umbrella was originally intended for Britney Spears but ultimately became one of Rihanna’s career-defining songs. Released in 2007, the song’s metaphor compares a strong relationship to sheltering someone from the storm, with Rihanna’s confident vocals and the song’s infectious beat making it an instant hit. Jay-Z’s opening rap verse adds to the song’s swagger, cementing it as a defining track of the late 2000s.

“Angel of My Dreams” – Sung by JADE

Marking her debut solo single after Little Mix’s hiatus, JADE (Jade Thirlwall) released “Angel of My Dreams” on July 19, 2024. The song was co-written by JADE, Steph Jones, Mike Sabath, and Pablo Bowman, with Bill Martin and Phil Coulter receiving credits due to the interpolation of “Puppet on a String.” The track received critical acclaim and peaked within the top ten on the UK Singles Chart. 

“Hey Jude” – Written by Paul McCartney, Sung by The Beatles

Paul McCartney wrote “Hey Jude” to comfort John Lennon’s son, Julian, during his parents’ divorce. The song became a massive hit, with its legendary sing-along ending making it a stadium favourite.

“Genesis” – Sung by Raye

British singer-songwriter Raye unveiled “Genesis” on June 7, 2024. She co-wrote the song with Marvin Hemmings and co-produced it alongside Rodney Jerkins, Shankar Ravindran, and Tom Richards. The track experiments with genres like jazz, R&B, hip-hop, gospel, and pop, addressing themes such as depression and hope. It peaked at number 22 on the UK Singles Chart and received positive critical reception.

“Purple Rain” – Written & Sung by Prince

Prince not only wrote but also performed “Purple Rain,” blending rock, gospel, and soul into one of the most epic ballads of all time. It remains a career-defining song for him.

“Stargazing” – Sung by Myles Smith

British singer-songwriter Myles Smith released “Stargazing” on May 10, 2024. Co-written with Peter Fenn and Jesse Fink, who also produced the track, the song blends folk-pop elements. It became Smith’s breakout hit, peaking at number four on the UK Singles Chart and achieving Platinum certification. 

“Stand by Me” – Written by Ben E. King, Jerry Leiber & Mike Stoller, Sung by Ben E. King

Ben E. King co-wrote and recorded “Stand by Me” in 1961, inspired by a gospel hymn. It later became an anthem of friendship and resilience, covered by artists like John Lennon.

“Beautiful Things” – Sung by Benson Boone

This song by Benson Boone is a heartfelt pop ballad that became a major hit, securing the number two spot on Apple Music’s global song chart for 2024. The song was co-written by Jack LaFrantz and Evan Blair, and produced by the latter. Benson Boone, who gained attention with his appearance on American Idol, contributed both his emotive vocals and songwriting to this track.

Lyrically, “Beautiful Things” explores themes of loss, personal growth, and finding beauty in the midst of hardship. Its emotional depth, combined with Boone’s raw vocal performance, resonated strongly with listeners, helping the song climb the charts and become one of the standout tracks of 2024.

“Party in the U.S.A.” – Written by Jessie J, Dr. Luke & Claude Kelly, Sung by Miley Cyrus

Party in the U.S.A. became a massive pop anthem upon its release in 2009. The song captures the excitement and nervousness of arriving in a new place, with lyrics describing a young woman stepping off a plane in Los Angeles, feeling out of place but quickly finding comfort in music. Originally written for Jessie J, the song was given to Miley Cyrus, whose energetic delivery turned it into one of her most iconic tracks.

“Tennessee Whiskey” – Written by Dean Dillon & Linda Hargrove, Popularised by Chris Stapleton

Originally written by Dean Dillon and Linda Hargrove, Tennessee Whiskey was first recorded by David Allan Coe in 1981, but it was Chris Stapleton’s 2015 bluesy, soulful rendition that propelled the song to mainstream fame. The lyrics use whiskey as a metaphor for love, comparing a lover’s warmth and devotion to the smoothness of the famous Southern spirit. Stapleton’s deep, rich vocals and the slow, blues-influenced arrangement helped redefine the song as a modern country classic.

“All I Want for Christmas Is You” – Written by Mariah Carey & Walter Afanasieff

Written by Mariah Carey and Walter Afanasieff, this 1994 (can you believe it’s that old?) holiday hit has become a Christmas staple worldwide. Unlike traditional Christmas songs that focus on festive elements like snow or presents, All I Want for Christmas Is You is about longing for love during the holiday season. Mariah Carey’s powerful vocals, combined with the song’s upbeat melody and nostalgic holiday instrumentation, have made it one of the best-selling Christmas songs of all time.

“Piano Man” – Written & Sung by Billy Joel

Written and performed by Billy Joel, Piano Man is a semi-autobiographical song inspired by Joel’s time playing in a piano bar in Los Angeles. Released in 1973, the song tells the stories of various patrons at the bar, from an old man reminiscing about lost dreams to a bartender stuck in his routine. With its storytelling lyrics, harmonica intro, and singalong chorus, Piano Man became one of Billy Joel’s signature songs and a classic of American rock music.

“Diamonds” – Written by Sia, Benjamin Levin & Tor Erik Hermansen, Sung by Rihanna

Written by Sia, Benjamin Levin, and Tor Erik Hermansen, and performed by Rihanna, Diamonds is a power ballad that contrasts Rihanna’s raw, emotive vocals with shimmering production. Released in 2012, the song’s lyrics celebrate finding love that shines brightly despite challenges. Its uplifting message, combined with Rihanna’s unique delivery, helped Diamonds become one of her biggest chart-topping hits – and let’s be honest, it’s still one of our favourites.

“Apt.” – Sung by Rosé & Bruno Mars

Yes, it’s Bruno again.

Released on October 18, 2024, “Apt.” is a duet by Rosé and Bruno Mars. The song features a team of writers, including Rosé, Amy Allen, Christopher “Brody” Brown, Rogét Chahayed, Omer Fedi, Phillip Lawrence, Bruno Mars, Theron Thomas, Henry Walter, Michael Chapman, and Nicholas Chinn. The track, which incorporates elements from Toni Basil’s 1982 hit “Mickey,” blends pop, pop rock, pop-punk, and new wave genres. It topped the Billboard Global 200 for 12 weeks, reached number three on the UK Singles Chart and is still stuck in everyone’s head. 

Ready to Write the Next Hit?

Becoming a successful songwriter isn’t just about writing great lyrics; it’s about finding your unique voice, connecting with listeners, and mastering the craft.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your skills to the next level, Song Academy can help you get there. We offer a range of resources for young people including songwriting courses, camps, workshops, and feedback from experienced mentors. Through our songwriting clubs and mentoring programs, you’ll have the opportunity to refine your skills, learn from industry professionals, and connect with fellow aspiring songwriters.

So if you’re dreaming of writing a chart-topping hit, Song Academy is the perfect place to nurture your talent, develop your creativity, and turn your musical aspirations into reality. Keep writing, keep learning, and who knows? You might be the next big name on the charts!