Inside Sam Nelson's Hit-Making Magic with Lizzo

Sam Nelson, the creative force behind X Ambassadors, continues to make waves in the music industry with his recent collaboration on Lizzo's new single 'Still Bad.'
March 19, 2025
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Known for his work with artists like Rihanna, The Weeknd, and Eminem, Nelson's songwriting prowess shines through in hits like 'Sucker for Pain' and 'Home.' His ability to blend genres and create emotionally resonant lyrics has cemented his place as a sought-after songwriter and producer.

Lizzo's Bold Return with "Still Bad"

"Still Bad" marks Lizzo's dynamic return to the music scene, co-written and co-produced by Lizzo alongside her trusted collaborators Ricky Reed and Blake Slatkin. This anthemic single is characterized by its unapologetic energy and 80s-influenced keys, blending retro vibes with Lizzo's modern flair. The music video serves as a sequel to "Love In Real Life," showcasing Lizzo's knack for storytelling and visual artistry. Sam Nelson, known for his work with X Ambassadors and other major artists, contributes his songwriting prowess to this empowering track. Lizzo's fans eagerly anticipated her comeback, and "Still Bad" delivers with its infectious melody and message of self-love.

Sam Nelson: Crafting Hits with Heartfelt Resonance

Sam Nelson, known as the lead vocalist and primary songwriter for the band X Ambassadors, has made a significant mark in the music industry with his multifaceted talents. Born and raised in Ithaca, New York, Sam grew up surrounded by music, which naturally led him to form X Ambassadors with his brother, Casey Harris. The band gained widespread recognition with their debut album, VHS, featuring hits like "Renegades" and "Unsteady." Beyond his band, Sam has proven his songwriting prowess by co-writing for major artists such as Rihanna, Lizzo, and The Weeknd. His style is a blend of alternative rock, pop, and R&B, characterized by catchy melodies and emotionally resonant lyrics. Sam’s solo work, starting with his album why does everything make me cry?, showcases a more intimate, acoustic sound. Although details about his contribution to Lizzo's recent release "Still Bad" are not confirmed, his previous collaborations with her highlight his ability to craft compelling songs that connect with audiences worldwide.

Top 5 Songs Featuring Sam Nelson's Songwriting

Discover five standout tracks that showcase Sam Nelson's songwriting prowess, blending genres and crafting memorable melodies that resonate with audiences.

Sucker for Pain by Lil Wayne, Wiz Khalifa, Imagine Dragons, Logic & Ty Dolla $ign (Ft. X Ambassadors)

"Sucker for Pain," a standout track from the Suicide Squad soundtrack, brought together a diverse group of artists including Lil Wayne, Wiz Khalifa, Imagine Dragons, Logic, Ty Dolla $ign, and X Ambassadors. The song achieved significant commercial success, peaking at No. 15 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 3 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. Its unique blend of hip-hop, rock, and pop elements, combined with a dark, cinematic tone, resonated with audiences and critics alike. Sam Nelson, as a songwriter, played a crucial role in crafting the song's haunting and atmospheric lyrics, which perfectly complemented the film's antihero theme. His ability to weave together the distinct styles of each artist contributed to the track's dynamic and cohesive sound, making "Sucker for Pain" a memorable and impactful addition to the movie's soundtrack.

Home by MGK, X Ambassadors & Bebe Rexha

The song "Home," performed by Machine Gun Kelly (MGK), X Ambassadors, and Bebe Rexha, was released in 2017 as part of the soundtrack for the Netflix film Bright. This track stands out for its genre-blending fusion of hip-hop, rock, and pop, reflecting the diverse talents of its contributing artists. Sam Nelson, known for his work with X Ambassadors, played a pivotal role as a songwriter, infusing the song with emotionally resonant lyrics and anthemic melodies. His contributions helped elevate "Home" into a powerful anthem of unity and resilience, aligning perfectly with the film's narrative. The song's dynamic production and compelling vocal performances have made it a memorable piece in the artists' discographies, showcasing Nelson's ability to craft songs that resonate with a wide audience.

Wicked Ways by Eminem (Ft. X Ambassadors)

"Wicked Ways" is a compelling track that showcases the powerful collaboration between Eminem and X Ambassadors. Known for his intricate lyrics and storytelling, Eminem delivers verses that explore themes of rebellion and self-destruction, while X Ambassadors add a melodic depth with their anthemic chorus. Although specific achievements for "Wicked Ways" are not detailed, its inclusion in Eminem's discography and the involvement of X Ambassadors suggest a successful fusion of hip-hop and rock influences. Sam Nelson, as a songwriter, contributes significantly to the song's emotional resonance, blending catchy melodies with heartfelt lyrics. This collaboration highlights the synergy between Eminem's lyrical prowess and X Ambassadors' vocal harmonies, creating a track that resonates with fans of both artists.

Bad Husband by Eminem (Ft. X Ambassadors)

"Bad Husband," a track from Eminem's 2017 album Revival, stands out for its emotional depth and introspective lyrics. The song, featuring X Ambassadors, delves into Eminem's personal reflections on his tumultuous marriage, offering a candid apology that contrasts with his earlier, more aggressive portrayals of the relationship. While Revival received mixed reviews, "Bad Husband" was praised for its raw honesty and emotional resonance, highlighting Eminem's evolution towards more personal storytelling. Sam Nelson, known for his work with X Ambassadors, contributed to the songwriting, adding a melodic layer that complements Eminem's intense lyricism. Nelson's involvement helped elevate the track, blending alternative rock elements with hip-hop to create a compelling and heartfelt piece.

Power Is Power by SZA, The Weeknd & Travis Scott

"Power Is Power," performed by SZA, The Weeknd, and Travis Scott, is a standout track from the Game of Thrones companion soundtrack For the Throne. Released in April 2019, the song quickly gained attention, peaking at number 90 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning a Gold certification from the RIAA. The track blends R&B, hip-hop, and pop elements, with each artist bringing their unique style to the mix—The Weeknd's soulful vocals, Travis Scott's dynamic rap, and SZA's emotive delivery. Sam Nelson, known for his work with X Ambassadors, contributed as a songwriter, adding depth and resonance to the lyrics, which explore themes of power and legacy inspired by the series. His involvement helped elevate the song's emotional impact, making it a memorable piece in the Game of Thrones musical canon.

Discover the Value of Your Music Catalog

Sam Nelson's impressive catalog, featuring collaborations with top artists, highlights the financial potential hidden within your own music. Whether you're an established producer, songwriter, or an emerging artist, your music catalog is a valuable asset. Royalty Exchange offers a unique opportunity to unlock this potential without any obligation. With a free catalog valuation, you can discover what your music is truly worth in today's market, based on real-world data. The process is straightforward, allowing you to explore deal options at your own pace and on your own terms. With over 20,000 verified investors, Royalty Exchange provides a competitive marketplace where you retain control while maximizing your payout. It's fast, flexible, and hassle-free, with a dedicated team ensuring a seamless experience. Even if you're just curious, there's no risk in getting a free valuation and seeing what opportunities await. Explore your options today.

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