Joe Alwyn has largely operated behind the scenes of music production, his name rarely appearing on streaming platforms next to the hits he helped create. While celebrated for his acting career, his work as a songwriter and producer for major pop icons reveals a different side of his artistic talent. Understanding which songs Joe Alwyn helped write provides a deeper look into the sonic landscape of contemporary pop music.
Breaking Down the Songwriting Process
To identify Joe Alwyn’s specific contributions, it is essential to look beyond performer credits and examine official publishing registrations. The music industry relies on databases like ASCAP, BMI, and Spotify metadata to track songwriting splits. When a song is co-written, the credits are legally divided, and this is where Alwyn’s involvement becomes concrete. He is not just a collaborator in the room; he is listed as a writer, which means he holds a stake in the composition itself.
Early Collaborations and The 1975
Alwyn’s songwriting journey began with intimate indie-pop long before he entered the mainstream pop sphere. His early work involved significant contributions to the tracks of The 1975, where he provided lyrical and melodic input during the development of their distinct sound. These sessions were less about formal co-writing credits and more about shaping the atmospheric backdrop of a generation’s soundtrack.
The City – While officially credited primarily to the band, Alwyn’s influence is noted in the demo’s evolution.
Chocolate – His early lyrical contributions helped frame the narrative of youthful excess and rebellion.
Taylor Swift: The Major Breakthrough
The most significant and widely documented portion of Joe Alwyn’s songwriting portfolio is his work with Taylor Swift. Their collaboration marked a pivotal moment for both artists, blending Swift’s narrative songwriting with Alwyn’s atmospheric production sensibilities. This partnership resulted in two key tracks that dominated the charts and defined an era.
Exile (feat. Bon Iver)
Arguably his most famous credit, "Exile" is a masterclass in melancholic songwriting. Alwyn co-wrote this track under the pseudonym William Bowery. The song’s structure, haunting bridge, and desperate tone are largely attributed to his input. It represents a departure from Swift’s traditional sound, diving into a rock-indebted despair that felt fresh on the album "Folklore."
Betty
From the same album, "Betty" is a character study rooted in 1970s folk-rock. Alwyn’s role here was crucial in crafting the song’s narrative perspective and rustic feel. The song tells the story of a love triangle with a maturity and sincerity that required a writer capable of understanding complex emotional landscapes, a role Alwyn fulfilled perfectly.
