This Is What You Came For — song by Calvin Harris featuring Rihanna
A 2016 dance-pop/EDM single produced by Calvin Harris and featuring Rihanna; notable for its chart success, RIAA certification and a writing-credit controversy involving Taylor Swift.
"This Is What You Came For" is a dance-pop/EDM single released on May 1, 2016. The track was produced and co-written by the Scottish artist often described as a Scottish DJ and creator Calvin Harris and features lead vocals by Barbadian singer Rihanna. Its glossy production, pulsating beat and atmospheric synths helped it become one of the year's most-played summer singles.
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3 ImagesMusical style and composition
The song blends elements of contemporary electronic dance music with pop songwriting. Harris's production emphasizes a steady four-on-the-floor pulse, layered synth textures and melodic hooks designed for radio and clubs. Rihanna's vocal delivery is restrained and soulful, providing a clear melodic line over the electronic backdrop. Critics often described the sound as characteristic of mid-2010s EDM-pop crossovers, balancing mainstream appeal with dancefloor energy.
Release, chart performance and certifications
Upon its release the single quickly charted across multiple territories. It reached number one in Canada and Australia, climbed to number two in the United Kingdom, and became a top-five hit in the United States. In the U.S. it debuted at number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 and later peaked at number three. The Recording Industry Association of America credited the single with multi-platinum sales, and it has been certified by the RIAA. The track also placed on year-end charts and contributed to Rihanna's long run of top-ten hits.
- Notable peaks: #1 (Canada, Australia), #2 (UK), top 5 (US).
- Billboard Hot 100 debut: #9; peak: #3.
- Year-end placement among the top songs of 2016 in several markets.
Songwriting credits and controversy
The song attracted attention beyond its commercial success because of its credited writers. One of the song's authors was initially listed under the pseudonym Nils Sjöberg. It later emerged that American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift had been involved in the writing process, and performing rights organization listings were updated to reflect her real name. The situation prompted public interest in songwriting credit practices and the reasons artists may use pseudonyms.
Promotion, video and legacy
An official music video and further promotional content accompanied the single, featuring stylized lighting and visual effects consistent with the song's club-oriented production. The collaboration reinforced both artists' presence on international pop charts and examples of producer-vocalist pairings that dominated the decade. The song remains a frequently cited example of mid-2010s EDM-pop crossover hits and is often referenced in discussions of commercial electronic production, chart performance and music-credit controversies.
For more detailed chart histories, certifications and credits consult official chart archives and rights organizations linked in this article. Additional information is available through artist discographies and major music industry resources.
Scottish DJ • Calvin Harris • producer • Rihanna • Canada and Australia • United Kingdom • United States • Billboard Hot 100 • RIAA • Taylor Swift
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AlegsaOnline.com This Is What You Came For — song by Calvin Harris featuring Rihanna Leandro Alegsa
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