12 songs that Chris Brown wrote for other artists
BY CHARLENE MASONA / 6.11.2024
When many think of Chris Brown, stellar dancing and chart-topping hits come to mind. While his moves and vocals make him stand out as an artist, Brown’s songwriting skill is not always a part of the conversation — even though it should be.
Brown started his career as a recording artist in 2004 after signing with Jive Records. The following year, the Virginia native hit the ground running with his debut single “Run It!” According to Billboard, the track peaked at No. 1 on the Hot 100, where it remained for five consecutive weeks. His eponymous 2005 debut album was later certified three-times platinum by the RIAA.
Since then, Brown has racked up many accolades, including a Grammy Award for Best R&B Album in 2012, and broke Elvis Presley’s record of being the male singer with the most entries on the Billboard Hot 100. The R&B king has been a part of countless hit collaborations like “No Air” with Jordin Sparks, “No Guidance” with Drake, and “Sensational” with Davido and Lojay. He has also offered his talents as a songwriter to many successful artists in the industry.
Check out 14 songs that CB wrote or co-wrote for famous names below.
1. Stronger by Mary J. Blige
Mary J. Blige’s “Stronger” is featured on the soundtrack for More Than a Game, Kristopher Belman’s documentary about the life and career of NBA star LeBron James. Per Genius, Brown is credited as a co-writer for the track performed by Blige. The album also features Ester Dean’s “Drop It Low,” which includes a feature from the R&B heavyweight.
2. See No More by Joe Jonas
On an episode of Shannon Sharpe’s “Club Shay Shay” podcast, Brown discussed songwriting for artists like the Jonas Brothers. He even worked on a track for Joe Jonas’ debut solo album, Fastlife. Listen to it above.
3. Disturbia by Rihanna
In the same interview with Sharpe, the “Kiss Kiss” hitmaker also spoke about writing pop songs for Rihanna, including “Disturbia” on her album Good Girl Gone Bad: Reloaded. The project also featured popular songs like “Umbrella,” “Don’t Stop The Music,” “Shut Up And Drive” and more. “Disturbia” spent two weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
4. She Ain’t Got… by LeToya Luckett
Brown co-wrote singer and actress LeToya Luckett’s “She Ain’t Got…” It was more of a pop song, showcasing how the former Destiny’s Child member could experiment with genres. Breezy, who has tracks like “Forever” and “Yeah 3x” in his discography, boasts the same talent. The collaboration between the two artists was a perfect fit.
5. Booty by Jennifer Lopez featuring Pitbull
The R&B MC continued to use his talents in pop music. He co-wrote Jennifer Lopez and Pitbull’s body-positive club anthem “Booty” from her album A.K.A. Brown is also listed as a writer on the song’s remix featuring Iggy Azalea.
