Cal Shapiro: The Songwriter Behind Some of 2025’s Biggest Hits
- blrbmag
- Oct 10
- 2 min read
Cal Shapiro is a Los Angeles–based songwriter, producer, and vocalist whose 2025 has been nothing short of transformative. This year, he helped craft Alex Warren’s breakout single “Ordinary,” a song that struck an emotional chord worldwide for its raw vulnerability and universal message of self-acceptance. He continued his collaboration with Warren on “Bloodline,” featuring Jelly Roll, and “Carry You Home” — both anthems that showcase Cal’s instinct for storytelling and melody that linger long after the music fades. His fingerprints are all over Warren’s album You’ll Be Alright, Kid, weaving together moments of honesty, hope, and human connection.
Beyond his work with Warren, Cal’s songwriting has resonated with artists like Linkin Park, Cameron Whitcomb, Jenna Raine, Lyn Lapid, Quinn XCII, MisterWives, and Two Friends, a testament to his versatility across pop, rock, alternative, and dance music.
Before his behind-the-scenes chapter began, Cal fronted the duo Timeflies, where he co-wrote fan favorites like “Once in a While,” “All the Way,” and “I Choose U.” Today, his passion lies in shaping songs that speak to people — crafting soundtracks to everyday life from the other side of the microphone. Follow Cal on his Instagram here.
REVIEWS
“Alex Warren’s ‘Ordinary’ is now the sole longest-leading hit ever on Billboard’s Pop Airplay chart as it adds a record-rewriting 15th week at No. 1 on the list dated Oct. 4.”
—Billboard
“the year's biggest pop chart breakout so far…”
“Warren's luminous voice and lit-from-within songcraft contribute to an unmistakable hit in which [Warren] seems able to leap from unutterable sadness to unmitigated joy. [“Ordinary”|” —Variety
“There's like one song every year that blows my socks off, and it's this one…"
—Ed Sheeran (about “Ordinary”)
“The music is so good, it moves me so deeply. It’s got a chorus that is just right up the middle. It shows you, you don’t need a lot of bells and whistles if you’ve got a great tune”
—John Mayer (about “Hitchiking”)