Amy Allen Shares Her Insights on Co-Writing Pop Hits: My Personal Approach

Amy Allen.
Credit: Caity Krone

NEED TO KNOW

• Amy Allen has emerged as a highly sought-after collaborator in the music industry.
• The songwriter, producer, and artist’s shift to music starkly contrasts her original career plans.
• “My north star is always telling a true story as honestly as I can,” Allen stated.

Amy Allen has made a significant impact in the music industry over recent years, establishing herself as a formidable talent.

Hailing from Maine, Allen has carved a niche as a prolific songwriter and producer while also advancing her own singing career. Known for her collaborations, she has penned hits for major artists such as Selena Gomez, Halsey, and Harry Styles. Her trajectory of success has only grown, working with a diverse array of contemporary artists, including Sabrina Carpenter and Olivia Rodrigo.

Reflecting on her career shift, Allen explained, “I started off wanting to be a nurse because I wanted to do something that helped people, and it took me a really long time for my brain to feel like writing songs was a way that I could be helpful to other human beings.”

Now, eight years into her journey, Allen understands the profound impact her songwriting can have. “I get it now,” she acknowledged. “Songs can change people’s lives and songs can get them through things.”

The recognition for her work has been extensive. At the 2023 Grammy Awards, Allen won Album of the Year for her contributions to Styles’ 2022 album, Harry’s House. Additionally, she became the first woman to win the Grammy Award for Songwriter of the Year (Non-Classical) last year. As she puts it, “My north star is always telling a true story as honestly as I can.”

Looking ahead, Allen is nominated for four Grammy Awards next year: Songwriter of the Year (Non-Classical), Album of the Year for Carpenter’s upcoming LP, Man’s Best Friend, and Song of the Year for tracks including “APT.” by ROSÉ and Bruno Mars and Carpenter’s “Manchild.”

In a recent interview, Allen shared insights on her experiences in music, including how collaborating with Styles transformed her approach to songwriting and what she hopes to achieve in the coming years.

Q: You’re nominated for four Grammys this year. How did you discover the news?

Amy Allen: I was driving from Los Angeles to Sedona, Ariz. for a camping trip when I heard the announcements were on. My boyfriend asked if I wanted to listen or wait, but I decided to go for it. When it was the first category they called, it happened so quickly that we just looked at each other amazed. Right after, I got a call from Sabrina and ROSÉ with congratulations.

Q: How do you plan to celebrate if you win Grammys this year?

ALLEN: My whole family is coming from Maine again. They were here last year, so I’m excited to have them for a long weekend. We’ll probably enjoy walks on the beach, which is a nice change from the cold back home. I also want to celebrate my fellow artists and songwriters; I’m so grateful.

Q: What was your favorite part of working with Sabrina Carpenter on “Manchild”?

ALLEN: Each song on [Man’s Best Friend] holds vivid memories for me. I truly became best friends with Sabrina through this process, spending countless hours walking and talking about life. Our laughter and time together made our bond even closer.

Q: Do you have any untold stories about collaborating with Sabrina on Man’s Best Friend?

ALLEN: Often, when we’re searching for lyrics, we take long walks. One time in England, we encountered beautiful horses, and I captured a stunning photo of her with one. It was a moment filled with gratitude for being with a friend in such a beautiful place, doing what I love.

Amy Allen and Sabrina Carpenter in Los Angeles in February 2023.
Credit: Gilbert Flores/Billboard via Getty

Q: How do you approach your writing process? Does it vary for different artists?

ALLEN: Completely. When I’m writing alone, I have my own method, but with artists, it hinges on their comfort and mood that day. Some might come in looking to write a fun uptempo song, while others may have a specific concept they wish to explore. I adapt accordingly, always aiming to meet them where they are.

Q: What has been your biggest “pinch-me” moment since winning two Grammys?

ALLEN: Any time I’m at a live show where songs I co-wrote are performed. Hearing them on the radio is one thing, but being in the moment with enthusiasts singing along is surreal.

Q: Is there a song you’re particularly proud of from your collaborations?

ALLEN: It varies, but “Matilda” with Harry Styles stands out due to its emotional depth. It’s always fulfilling to hear how much it resonates with listeners, being closely tied to family and growth.

Q: How was working with Harry Styles transformative for your songwriting career?

ALLEN: He was among the first where I could truly collaborate in real time. The connection we had inspired me and pivoted my career toward creating with artists in the room, a crucial turning point for me.

Q: What have you learned from Jack Antonoff?

ALLEN: Jack exemplifies a genuine dedication to music. Meeting him reminded me of the joy in creativity, escaping the industry’s pressures. His enthusiasm for every project has reignited my own passion for music.

Q: What do you think defines pop music right now?

ALLEN: The genre is exciting because it’s redefining itself. I see this in songs like Sabrina Carpenter’s “Please Please Please,” which pushes boundaries and mixes styles, urging creativity for new soundscapes.

Q: Is there a formula for writing a hit?

ALLEN: I don’t think so. The most compelling songs often come from genuine storytelling, combining honesty with catchiness. This year’s hits showcase an exciting diversity in sound.

Amy Allen and Jack Antonoff in Los Angeles in December 2024.
Credit: Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty

Q: Which artist has left you starstruck during collaborations?

ALLEN: Justin Timberlake. He represents so much of my childhood, from *NSYNC to his solo career. His influence on pop is immeasurable, and working with him felt surreal.

Q: Have you had a chance to collaborate with Paul McCartney?

ALLEN: Not yet, but it’s a dream of mine.

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Through her dedication to authentic storytelling and an ever-expanding network of collaboration, Amy Allen continues to reshape her career and inspire fans across the globe.