8 Notable Songs Taylor Swift Wrote for Other Artists

Taylor Swift isn’t just known for her own chart-topping hits—her songwriting magic has shaped music beyond her own albums. From country roots to global pop anthems, her talent for storytelling has created unforgettable tracks that she didn’t keep for herself. You may have sung along to these songs without even realizing she was the mastermind behind them.

Whether they’re hits on the radio or fan-favorite deep cuts, these songs have helped other artists shine while showcasing her incredible versatility. Let’s take a look at the songs Taylor Swift wrote for other artists.

Notable Songs Taylor Swift Wrote for Other Artists

1. “This Is What You Came For” by Calvin Harris ft. Rihanna

You might know this as one of the biggest hits of 2016, but what you may not know is that Taylor Swift co-wrote the track under the pseudonym Nils Sjöberg. At the time, Taylor and Calvin Harris were dating, and the secrecy added a layer of intrigue to the song’s success.

Rihanna’s vocals brought the song to life, but Taylor’s lyrical and melodic contributions gave it the infectious energy that made it a global anthem. After the secret came out, fans praised Taylor’s versatility in tackling electronic pop.

2. “Better Man” by Little Big Town

Originally written for her Red album, “Better Man” was a deeply emotional ballad that Taylor felt needed a new home. She passed it on to country group Little Big Town, and the decision paid off beautifully.

Released in 2016, the song earned critical acclaim and won a Grammy for Best Country Duo/Group Performance. Taylor’s poignant lyrics about heartbreak and regret resonated deeply with listeners, proving her ability to create raw, relatable songs even when she’s not the one performing them.

3. “Babe” by Sugarland

“Babe” started as a demo Taylor wrote during her Red era, and it finally found its voice with country duo Sugarland. Released in 2018, the song captures the sting of betrayal and disappointment in a relationship. Taylor not only co-wrote the track but also lent her vocals to the chorus, giving fans a familiar taste of her country-pop sound.

Sugarland’s Jennifer Nettles praised Taylor’s contribution, saying it was an honor to bring her story to life. The song’s relatable theme and catchy melody quickly made it a fan favorite.

4. “Two Is Better Than One” by Boys Like Girls

This 2009 hit was a pop-rock anthem that featured Taylor Swift’s unmistakable songwriting touch. She not only co-wrote the song with Boys Like Girls but also provided backing vocals, adding emotional depth and harmony.

At the time, Taylor was emerging as a crossover artist, and this track showcased her ability to blend pop, country, and rock effortlessly. The song became a staple of the late-2000s music scene, loved for its romantic lyrics and nostalgic vibes.

5. “You’ll Always Find Your Way Back Home” by Miley Cyrus (as Hannah Montana)

Taylor Swift contributed this upbeat, country-inspired track for Hannah Montana: The Movie in 2009. Written specifically for the film’s climactic moment, the song captures themes of staying true to your roots no matter how far life takes you.

While Miley Cyrus performed it as her character Hannah Montana, Taylor’s lyrical fingerprints are unmistakable. The track added authenticity to the movie’s storyline and solidified Taylor’s reputation as a versatile songwriter who could adapt her style for younger audiences.

6. “Renegade” by Big Red Machine ft. Taylor Swift

“Renegade” is a heartfelt collaboration between Taylor Swift and Aaron Dessner of The National. Released in 2021 as part of Big Red Machine’s album How Long Do You Think It’s Gonna Last?, the song explores themes of emotional struggles and fractured relationships.

Taylor’s vocals carry a raw vulnerability, perfectly complementing Dessner’s atmospheric production. This track was created during the same creative period as folklore and evermore, showcasing Taylor’s seamless ability to adapt her songwriting and performance to new artistic ventures.

7. “Best Days of Your Life” by Kellie Pickler

Co-written with Kellie Pickler in 2008, this track became a standout hit in Pickler’s country career. The song tells the story of heartbreak and revenge, themes that Taylor often mastered in her early country years. Not only did Taylor help write it, but she also provided backing vocals, giving fans a sense of her signature sound in the chorus. The song became a major success, peaking at No. 9 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.

8. “Both of Us” by B.o.B ft. Taylor Swift

This 2012 collaboration with rapper B.o.B showcased Taylor’s ability to blend her songwriting with a completely different genre—hip-hop. Taylor co-wrote and performed the emotional chorus, which reflects themes of hope and overcoming struggles. Her heartfelt delivery paired perfectly with B.o.B’s verses, creating a unique and memorable cross-genre hit that resonated with fans of both artists.