Billboard On The Record How the Music Industry’s Biggest Hits Are Written w/ Amy Allen
20 snips
Oct 9, 2025 
Amy Allen, a Grammy-winning pop songwriter, shares her journey from nursing school to crafting hits for artists like Selena Gomez and Harry Styles. She discusses the evolution of songwriting in the TikTok era, the decline of pitch records, and how social media allows artists to express their personality. Amy emphasizes emotional honesty in storytelling, the challenges of songwriting as a livelihood, and the collaborative relationships that shape great music. With insights on what makes a star, she reflects on artistry and creativity in modern pop.
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Leaving The Band Sparked Her Songwriting Career
- Amy Allen left her band after a label meeting where hearing her songs played made her realize they weren't good enough.
- That moment pushed her to focus on songwriting and meet collaborators like Scott Harris who changed her career trajectory.
A Melody At Home Became A Breakthrough Cut
- Amy sang a melody at home after a tumultuous relationship night and brought it to a session the next day.
- That melody became a Selena Gomez song and led to her move to LA and signing a publishing deal.
Pitch Records Decline Changes Entry Paths
- The decline of pitch records raises barriers for new writers because artists now prefer in-room collaboration.
- But TikTok and other discovery channels create alternate paths for songwriters to break through.
