8 Songs You Didn't Know Were Written by Jessie J
8 Songs You Didn't Know Were Written by Jessie J
Welcome to MsMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for the most surprising songs you’d never guess were penned by the “Price Tag” singer.
#8: “We Don’t Play Around” (2013)
Dizzee Rascal feat. Jessie J
This song from the English rapper’s album “The Fifth” is an energetic blend of pop, rap, and EDM. It marks Dizzee Rascal and Jessie J’s second collaboration, the first being her song “Wild”, which also featured Big Sean. For “We Don’t Play Around”, the English singer didn’t just contribute her powerful vocals, but she also wrote the lyrics alongside Dizzee Rascal, Teddy Sky, Jimmy Joker, and RedOne. The result is a catchy party anthem that’s tailor-made for sweaty dance floors. Furthermore, the chorus is utterly chantable, which is a definite Jessie J signature.
#7: “V.I.P” (2011)
Koda Kumi
Jessie J’s talent knows no bounds – not even geographical. The singer collaborated with Japanese artist Koda Kumi for the Japanese and English song “V.I.P”, which was released as part of the single “4 Times”. She shares songwriting credits with the performer herself as well as Toby Gad. Rather than carrying obvious imprints of Jessie J’s style, the song is perfectly suited to Koda Kumi, so much so that fans are shocked when they find out “The Voice UK” coach wrote part of the lyrics. It is pure electropop goodness, laced with the Kyoto native’s characteristic sensuality and unapologetic confidence.
#6: “Calling All Hearts” (2014)
DJ Cassidy feat. Robin Thicke & Jessie J
This disco funk bop topped the Belgium Dance Bubbling Under chart and peaked at number six on OCC’s UK Singles list. It even climbed to number nine on Billboard’s US Dance Club Songs chart. Jessie J is featured on the track alongside Robin Thicke, and she imbues the song with such feel-good energy that you can’t help but hit the dance floor. Her vocal runs make the tune even more impressive. Notably, she also co-wrote the lyrics to the song with DJ Cassidy, Claude Kelly, and Gregory Cohen. No wonder it’s so addictive!
#5: “Clued Up” (2015)
Little Mix
This song from the album “Get Weird” has a special place in fans’ hearts. In this stripped-down acoustic track, the Little Mix members express their most authentic selves as they sing about being different and taking life as it comes. The lyrics are deeply emotional and profound, and were written by the members themselves, alongside Jessie J and TMS. The collaboration is particularly significant, considering that the girls were mentored by the “Nobody's Perfect” singer when they were on “The X Factor”. Jessie J’s penchant for empowerment through music shines through in this number, and we just can’t get enough of it.
#4: “One More Try”
“& Juliet”
The award-winning jukebox musical features some incredible songs by top artists such as Ariana Grande, Backstreet Boys, Britney Spears, Demi Lovato, Kesha, and Katy Perry. “One More Try” is the only new original song in the entire musical. It appears in Act II and signals Romeo’s determination to change for the better. The lyrics are defiant and inspirational to listeners as well, encouraging them to step into their power and embrace their potential. Once again, it is Jessie J who crafted the lyrics. Her own song, “Domino” is also featured in Act I of the musical.
#3: “Repeat” (2011)
David Guetta feat. Jessie J
The French DJ tapped the English hitmaker for this song, not just as a featured artist but also as a songwriter. It was released as part of the album “Nothing but the Beat” and was praised by critics for standing out. While it has the infectious appeal David Guetta is known for, Jessie J’s outstanding vocals take center stage. The lyrics are written from the perspective of someone who is bidding adieu to a toxic partner and is heartbroken but moving on. Jessie J served as a lyricist, alongside Guetta, The Invisible Men, Ali Tennant, Giorgio Tuinfort, and Frédéric Riesterer, giving us a break-up bop that had us crying in the club.
#2: “I Need This” (2009)
Chris Brown
The album “Graffiti”, which this song is a part of, isn’t considered one of CB’s best works, though it topped Billboard’s US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums list. Notably, it was released months after Brown was arrested for allegedly assaulting his then-girlfriend Rihanna. In “I Need This”, which he co-wrote with Jessie J, Rob Allen, and more, he sings of needing space and taking time to reflect. In 2011, when Jessie J put out her debut studio album “Who You Are”, she included her own rendition of “I Need This” in it. Her record notched a number two peak on OCC’s UK Albums chart.
#1: “Party in the U.S.A.” (2009)
Miley Cyrus
This banger was undoubtedly one of the greatest songs of the late aughts. It was the lead single from Miley’s EP “The Time of Our Lives” and went on to top Billboard’s US Pop Airplay chart. Given its anthemic quality and catchy hook, it is no surprise that Jessie J co-wrote it. She worked with Grammy-nominated musician Claude Kelly on the track, alongside now-disgraced producer and songwriter Dr. Luke. When "Weird Al" Yankovic dropped a parody of “Party in the U.S.A.” called “Party in the CIA” in 2011, Jessie J was credited as a songwriter (xref).
Which Jessie J song is your favorite? Tell us in the comments!
