The album features work from Ed Sheeran, One Republic lead singer Ryan Tedder, composer Stephan Moccio, and singer-songwriter Maureen McDonald — known professionally as MoZella — who wrote the Miley Cyrus hit “Wrecking Ball.
“We got together in random places all across the world to write it,” Blunt says. “For me, this has been a really exciting process.”
It took two years and 100 songs for Blunt to come up with the 10 songs that would make it onto “The Afterlove.” Normally, it takes the artist 25 songs to develop an album.
The artists also gave Blunt invaluable advice that helped him grow. Sheeran in particular, who will be touring with Blunt, encouraged him to be candid with his lyrics.
“Ed Sheeran is a remarkably open, direct lyricist,” he says. “He just opens up and says something honest.”
One Republic’s Tedder encouraged Blunt to experiment with new sounds and music styles.
“Ryan Tedder said, ‘Let’s be bold. Let’s say things that excite us and confront things head on.'”
“This album is inspired by the people I’ve worked with,” Blunt adds.
A sly lyric on the album’s first track shows that the artist is embracing his new career direction.
“I saw you outside a bar,” he sings. “I would’ve said you’re beautiful, but I’ve used that line before.”
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