Julia Michaels
Co-writer of 'Fast Times' from *Emails I Can't Send*.
Julia Michaels co-wrote the song "Fast Times" from Sabrina Carpenter's fifth studio album *Emails I Can't Send* (2022), where it appears as the tenth track. The song was written by Carpenter, Michaels, JP Saxe, and its producer John Ryan. It was released by Island Records as the second single from the album on February 18, 2022.
- Role
- Songwriter
- Key Collaboration
- Co-writer on 'Fast Times'
- Affiliation
- Pop Industry Creative Team
- Status
- Active Collaborator
- Relationship
- Professional Peer & Friend
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
In the summer of 2021, Julia Michaels joined Sabrina Carpenter, JP Saxe, and John Ryan in New York to write "Fast Times." The songwriting process began with sampling a Tequila bottle and playing percussion with pencils. Carpenter noted, "We weren't taking ourselves too seriously making it, which really reflects the energy of the song." The track was recorded at Jungle City Studios in New York City, mixed at MixStar Studios in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and mastered at Sterling Sound in Edgewater, New Jersey. The song was released on February 18, 2022, alongside its music video directed by Amber Park, which was inspired by *Charlie's Angels* and *Kill Bill*.
In Their Own Story
In a New York studio during summer 2021, Julia Michaels and the songwriting team started building "Fast Times" by tapping pencils against a Tequila bottle. The playful beginning set the tone for an upbeat pop and soft rock song with bossa nova-tinged sounds. Carpenter later shared a snippet of the chorus on January 1, 2022, revealed the song's name on *The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon*, and unveiled the single's cover art and release date on February 3. The song was released on February 18, 2022, as the second single from *Emails I Can't Send*.
Reader's Guide
Julia Michaels contributed to "Fast Times," a song that runs two minutes and fifty-five seconds. It was composed in 4/4 common time in the key of C♯ minor, with verses in D major, at a tempo of 133 beats per minute. The chord progression is Em-Em6-Em7-Em6 on the verses and C♯m-B6-Amaj7-B6/A on the chorus. Carpenter's vocal range spans from G3 to A4. The production features "post-disco violins" and a "funky electric guitar solo" on the bridge. Lyrically, Carpenter sings about "running a relationship on fast-forward" and living in the present without worrying about consequences. Carpenter performed the song on the setlists of the Emails I Can't Send Tour (2022-2023) and the Short n' Sweet Tour (2024-2025).
Did You Know?
- Julia Michaels co-wrote "Fast Times" with Sabrina Carpenter, JP Saxe, and John Ryan in New York during summer 2021.
- The songwriting process began by sampling a Tequila bottle and playing percussion with pencils.
- "Fast Times" was released as the second single from *Emails I Can't Send* on February 18, 2022.
- The music video for "Fast Times" was directed by Amber Park and inspired by *Charlie's Angels* and *Kill Bill*.
- Carpenter included "Fast Times" on the setlists of both the Emails I Can't Send Tour (2022-2023) and the Short n' Sweet Tour (2024-2025).
Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Julia Michaels in relation to Sabrina Carpenter?
She is a celebrated songwriter and vocalist who plays a key role in shaping Sabrina's musical evolution. Her emotive lyricism helps define several recent eras of the singer's discography.
What specific songs did they work on together?
Julia Michaels is notably credited as a co-writer on the hit track 'Feather.' She contributes to tracks that balance personal vulnerability with polished pop production.
Why do fans care about her contributions?
Her involvement often signals a shift toward more introspective storytelling within an album. This enriches the narrative depth found in Sabrina's music, making it resonate deeply with listeners.
What is their personal relationship like?
They maintain a professional peer dynamic built on mutual respect and genuine friendship. Their bond extends beyond simple credits, reflecting a close connection within the industry.
Is she still involved in Sabrina's career?
Yes, Julia remains an active collaborator who continues to influence Sabrina's creative team. Fans can expect her signature style to appear in future sonic moments and releases.