In a captivating discussion at the historic Georgian Hotel in Santa Monica, six of the music industry’s most talented songwriters gathered for a roundtable hosted by The Hollywood Reporter. Billie Eilish, Olivia Rodrigo, Dua Lipa, Cynthia Erivo, John Batiste, and Julia Michaels shared insights into their creative processes, personal journeys, and the challenges of songwriting.
The conversation began with reflections on the early days of their songwriting careers. Cynthia Erivo recalled writing a feminist anthem at just 14, while Billie Eilish shared a childhood song she composed in Albanian for her mother. Each artist recounted the emotional resonance that music has had in their lives, emphasizing the importance of honesty and vulnerability in their lyrics.
As the panel delved into their experiences with major film projects, Olivia Rodrigo expressed the unique challenge of writing songs for a character rather than herself. Her work for “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” allowed her to explore a narrative and emotions separate from her own, a sentiment echoed by Eilish and Lipa, who wrote for the “Barbie” soundtrack. Lipa described the collaboration with Mark Ronson as a joyous experience, highlighting how the song “Dance the Night” became a celebration of both community and the complexities of life.
John Batiste shared the deeply personal nature of his documentary “American Symphony,” which intertwined his music with poignant life events, including his wife’s battle with leukemia. The process of creating music during such turbulent times underscored the therapeutic power of songwriting, which Batiste described as an act of survival.
The discussion also touched on the influence of iconic artists on their musical journeys. Eilish reminisced about her initial experiences with music, while Rodrigo reflected on the impact of Lorde’s “Pure Heroine” during her formative years. Each artist highlighted how their inspirations shaped their identities as songwriters and performers.
As the roundtable progressed, the artists celebrated the camaraderie among women in the industry, with Lipa emphasizing the significance of representation for young female musicians. The dialogue became a powerful reminder of the importance of community and support among artists, with the participants expressing their admiration for one another’s work.
Wrapping up the session, the group engaged in light-hearted banter about karaoke songs and dream collaborations, underscoring the genuine connection formed through their shared experiences. The roundtable showcased not only the artistic prowess of these songwriters but also their collective commitment to using music as a means of expression and healing.
This gathering of talent and creativity served as an inspiring testament to the enduring power of songwriting, highlighting how personal experiences can shape music that resonates with audiences worldwide. As they shared their stories, the artists demonstrated that through vulnerability and connection, they could create profound art that speaks to the human experience.