He may not be a household name, but I’ll bet you know his work – Gregg Alexander is a songwriter, producer and performer with a knack for crafting some of the most catchy, emotionally resonant songs of the past 25 years.

Here I delve into four notable tracks that highlight his remarkable songwriting prowess:

You Get What You Give by The New Radicals (1998)

Gregg Alexander first came to my attention with the release of You Get What You Give in 1998, performed by his band The New Radicals. This anthem of youthful defiance and optimism became a global hit, celebrated for its infectious melody and sharp, socially conscious lyrics. The song criticizes the superficiality of the celebrity culture and consumerism (remember the video in the shopping mall?) while encouraging listeners to stay true to themselves and fight for their beliefs. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Alexander’s ability to blend thought-provoking content with an unforgettable tune, making it a late-90s classic that still resonates today.

Life is a Rollercoaster by Ronan Keating (2000)

This track showcases Alexander’s versatility, shifting from alternative rock to pop with ease. This is an upbeat, feel-good song that captures the highs and lows of life and love. Whatever happens – you’ve just got to go with it! Keating’s heartfelt delivery, paired with the catchy hooks and lyrics, made the song a commercial success, solidifying Alexander’s reputation as a hitmaker capable of writing across genres. I blogged about this song before, way back in 2013.

Murder on the Dancefloor by Sophie Ellis-Bextor (2001)

Continuing his streak of successful collaborations, Alexander co-wrote Murder on the Dancefloor for British singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor in 2001. This disco-inspired track became a dancefloor staple, praised for its infectious groove and playful lyrics. The narrative, about a woman determined to win a dance competition at any cost, showcased Alexander’s talent for storytelling within the confines of a pop song. It gained a new lease of life and reached a new audience when it featured in the 2023 film Saltburn.

The Game of Love by Santana featuring Michelle Branch (2002)

In 2002, Alexander co-wrote The Game of Love for guitar legend Carlos Santana, featuring vocals by Michelle Branch – although Alexander himself was originally due to sing it, and further versions were recorded with Tina Turner and Macy Gray before Michelle Branch was brought in. This track marked a return to rock-infused pop, blending Santana’s characteristic guitar riffs with Branch’s soulful vocals. The Game of Love is a fusion of rock and pop elements, underpinned by Alexander’s signature melodic sensibilities. The song won a Grammy, highlighting Alexander’s skill in creating music that appeals to a broad audience while maintaining artistic integrity.

As you can probably tell, I’m quite a fan. Gregg Alexander has a talent for transcending genres and creating music that resonates with diverse audiences. From the rebellious spirit of You Get What You Give to the dance-pop perfection of Murder on the Dancefloor, and the heartfelt melodies of Life is a Rollercoaster and The Game of Love, his work has appeal to almost everyone.

He may not be the most famous, but he’s surely one of the most versatile and talented songwriters of his generation.