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More Pop Stars Should Call Ed Sheeran to Write Their Songs
Katseye's new single "Animal" was co-written by Ed Sheeran, who reached out to the group after hearing their viral hit "Gnarly" while in Mexico. The Rollingstone piece argues Sheeran's involvement gives the girl group, formed via Netflix's Pop Star Academy two years ago, a genuine shot at the crossover hit that has eluded them, and makes the case that more pop acts should enlist him as a songwriter given his consistent knack for crafting hits for others.
The article notes Katseye's mixed track record, from "Gabriela" (Number 21 on the Billboard Hot 100) and "Gnarly" to less successful releases such as "Internet Girl" and "Pinky Up", the latter overshadowed by member Manon Bannerman's indefinite hiatus. "Animal", also credited to Johnny McDaid, Omer Fedi and Blake Slatkin, is praised for finally letting the group actually sing and for its broad, radio-friendly appeal, echoing earlier Sheeran hits such as "Sing" and "I Don't Care". The piece also points to Sheeran's history of boosting other artists, citing Justin Bieber's 2015 single "Love Yourself" as a prior example of his hit-making touch.
In short
- Ed Sheeran co-wrote Katseye's new single "Animal"
- He contacted the group after hearing their track "Gnarly"
- Writer argues more pop stars should hire Sheeran to write for them
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Ed Sheeran has a demonstrable track record of crafting commercially successful songs for other artists, notably Justin Bieber's "Love Yourself". For emerging acts like Katseye that have struggled with commercial consistency, enlisting proven hit-makers is a pragmatic strategy to achieve mainstream success.
The case against
Artists who depend excessively on established songwriters risk compromising their own creative development and distinctive voice. Sustainable careers require developing authentic artistic identities and original songwriting abilities rather than outsourcing to industry hit-makers, which may generate quick commercial wins but ultimately undermine long-term artistic growth.
Explained simply
Katseye is a pop group formed through the Netflix series Pop Star Academy. The group has released songs with mixed results: “Gabriela” reached number 21 on the US Billboard Hot 100, while other singles drew less attention.
Ed Sheeran is a British singer-songwriter who also writes songs with and for other performers. His credits include Justin Bieber’s 2015 hit “Love Yourself”, and he has helped shape pop songs such as “Sing” and “I Don’t Care”.
Songwriters can influence a song’s sound and its appeal to radio audiences. Sheeran’s work with Katseye brings attention to how established writers may help newer acts reach listeners beyond their existing fanbase.