Writing “Genie in a Bottle” for Christina Aguilera — Pam Sheyne

Send us Fan Mail How do you write a song the whole world ends up singing? We’re joined by Pam Sheyne, the multi-platinum songwriter behind Christina Aguilera’s breakout hit “Genie in a Bottle,” to talk about what actually happens in the room when a career-defining track comes together, why you can feel you wrote “a good song” and still never predict a smash, and how preparation separates pros from wishful thinking. We also zoom out to the modern music industry: writing as a chameleon for different artists, doing the homework on vocal range and style, and navigating the subtle politics of helping an artist feel true ownership. Pam shares what she’s seeing through her songwriting camps, including sync licensing sessions built around real briefs and the practical business details that matter, like one-stop clearance and keeping song ownership intact. Then we get into songwriter rights and advocacy. Pam reflects on her work with SONA and the fight that led to the Music Modernization Act, what streaming royalties exposed, and why conversations about master rights, fair pay, and even healthcare aren’t optional if we want sustainable songwriting careers. We close with a return to artistry through her duo Eva and the healing power of singing, plus grounded advice for anyone trying to build a life in music. Subscribe, share this with a songwriter friend, and leave a review so more people can find these conversations. https://www.instagram.com/pamsheyne/ https://www.songwritercamps.com/ Support the show If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, rate and share. Many thanks to Anne Tello for her vocals on the theme song and to our sponsor 'Heard City'. Check out https://www.shecreatesnoisepodcast.com for more episodes featuring women who power the music industry. https://www.shecreatesnoise.com/ https://www.sarahnagourney.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shecreatesnoise/ https://www.instagram.com/glassbeatmusic/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SheCreatesNoise Email: [email protected]