Charli xcx was recently named “Songwriter of the Year” at the Brit Awards. Many contributing factors went into her winning this award. From her stellar year with Brat to her lengthy catalog of hits written for other artists, Charli is more than deserving of this honor. If you need an education on her history as a songwriter, check out four of Charli xcx’s best-written songs, below.
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“360”
Though “360” might not be a brooding diatribe on life, it is still an expertly written track. Many songwriting fanatics only see the former type of songwriting as having intrinsic merit, but if the charts last year were indicative of anything, “360” struck a chord with listeners the world over.
Everyone likes to have a good time and feel good about themselves. It’s a natural inclination. This Charli xcx song provides the perfect score for such a moment. From cultural references to rhythmic refrains, this song is a pitch perfect pop anthem.
Drop down, yeah
Put the camera flash on
So stylish
Baby tee is all gone
Drop down, yeah
Lookin’ like an icon
Work angles, yeah
“Same Old Love” (Selena Gomez)
Those that only know Charli from her Brat-era might be surprised to find that she has written many songs for other people. She was a top pop songwriter for years before she became a cultural movement. One of our favorites from her catalog is “Same Old Love.”
We’d find it hard to believe if you said you couldn’t sing along to this track. It was everywhere in 2015–and for good reason. Charli crafted an insatiably catchy chorus here. It has likely ruminated in your mind since its release. What is the mark of a great pop song but a chorus you can’t seem to shake?
I’m so sick of that same old love, that sh** it tears me up
I’m so sick of that same old love, my body’s had enough
“1999” (featuring Troye Sivan)
As mentioned earlier, Charli isn’t afraid of a well-placed cultural reference. She maxed that affinity out in “1999.” Featuring Troye Sivan, this track is nostalgia fuel masking the fear of growing up. Charli xcx reminisces on her childhood in this song, dreaming of returning to easier times.
As an added referential bonus, check out the accompanying visual to “1999,” below. From Titanic to Eminem to The Sims, this music video is maximalism incarnate.
I just wanna go back, back to 1999
Take a ride to my old neighborhood
I just wanna go back, sing “Hit me, baby, one more time”
Wanna go back, wanna go
“Friends” (The Japanese House)
Though The Japanese House’s music stands in stark contrast to Charli’s typically punchy vocals and club ready rhythms, they joined forces for this track in 2023. When dissecting the lyrics, it’s evident Charli had something to do with this. You can nearly hear her singing it on top of some pounding 808s.
This song is evidence toward Charli’s ability to use her style across a number of genres. It’s no wonder she’s such an in-demand songwriter.
Did your friends find out? Do they like the fact you’re moving on?
Do you like the way it turns you on
When they f***ed in front of you?
Yeah, you do
(Photo by John Salangsang/Shutterstock)
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