“The women who made me”
The Onerepublic frontman has written for some of music’s biggest names. Here, he champions the women he admires.
Beyoncé Singer, songwriter, actress and record producer
Working with Beyoncé on two of her albums has been incredible. I don’t think there’s anything she can’t do. My favourite memory is watching her record ‘Halo’, which I co-wrote – she totally blew me away. Her artistry is like no other; Beyoncé isn’t changing pop culture, she’s creating it.
Janet Smith High school music teacher
I loved music class at school, and she was very supportive in those early days. She was dedicated to her students and went above and beyond to help.
Adele Singer and songwriter
I’ve collaborated with Adele for a long time now, so it’s hard to pick out just one thing I love about her – but I particularly admire that every song she produces sounds like a hit; she wants the absolute best performance for every track. She’s very driven like that.
Rachel Brown Manager
Rachel works in my management team and I would honestly be nowhere without her. She’s on top of everything and extremely loyal. And very patient with me, too.
Ellie Goulding Singer and songwriter
Ellie is unbelievably hardworking – she gets the job done, whatever else is going on. When we’re recording, she comes in, cuts the vocal and just kills it. I co-wrote ‘Burn’, and it will always be very special to me – what Ellie did with it was pretty amazing.
JK Rowling Author, screenwriter and film producer
JK Rowling has to be my favourite writer, she’s inspired a whole generation with the Harry Potter series. I’m astounded by the strength of her imagination.
Taylor Swift Singer and songwriter
Working on her album 1989 is such a career highlight for me, especially as we won the Grammy for Album of the Year in 2016. I had a lot of fun joining her onstage when she was touring LA, too. Taylor is a total pro, a perfectionist. She brings a lot to the table.
Annie Lennox Singer, political activist and philanthropist
She has energy and passion and fights for her beliefs. I am a real fan of her talent and all that she stands for.