Paul Epworth

The producer who turned Adele's heartbreak into a global phenomenon through three tracks on 21 and two on 25.

Paul Epworth is an English record producer and musician born on 25 July 1974 who became a pivotal creative force in Adele's career. He co-wrote and produced three tracks on her landmark album 21, including the global number one hit "Rolling in the Deep." His work helped define the sound of that era, earning him three Grammy Awards at the 54th ceremony for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Producer of the Year, while the Album of the Year award went to Adele and the collective producers. Epworth continued this partnership on Adele's third album, 25, co-writing "I Miss You" and "Sweetest Devotion," which contributed to that record winning Album of the Year at the 59th Grammy Awards.

Quick Facts

Birth name

Paul Richard Epworth

Alias

Phones; Epic Man

Born

25 July 1974

Birthplace

Bishop's Stortford, England

Instrument

Drums
percussion
bass
guitar
keyboards
trumpet

Genre

Indie rock
punk rock
hip hop
pop
dance

Occupation

Record producer
songwriter
musician
remixer

Years active

2000–present

Lore & Background

Epworth's collaboration with Adele began in earnest during the creation of her second album, 21. He co-wrote and produced three specific songs for the record: "Rolling in the Deep," which became a worldwide number one single; "I'll Be Waiting"; and "He Won't Go" (though Rick Rubin produced "He Won't Go," Epworth co-wrote it). Epworth handled the production for the other two, with "Rolling in the Deep" standing out as a massive commercial success. This partnership yielded significant accolades, including three Grammy Awards on 12 February 2012, where Epworth took home trophies for Producer of the Year, Song of the Year, and Record of the Year for "Rolling in the Deep," while the Album of the Year award for 21 was credited to Adele and the collective producers. The chemistry between them extended to Adele's subsequent album, 25, released in late 2015. On this record, Epworth co-wrote and produced two tracks: "I Miss You" and "Sweetest Devotion." His involvement helped secure another Album of the Year Grammy for Adele at the 59th ceremony.

Reader's Guide

For fans exploring Paul Epworth's contributions to Adele's discography, focus on the albums 21 and 25 as the primary anchors. On 21, look specifically for "Rolling in the Deep," "I'll Be Waiting," and "He Won't Go" (noting that while Epworth co-wrote all three, he produced only two of them). His production on "Rolling in the Deep" was instrumental in its chart-topping performance. On 25, identify "I Miss You" and "Sweetest Devotion" as the tracks where he served as both co-writer and producer. These five songs represent the core of their collaborative output documented in the source. Additionally, note that Epworth won multiple awards specifically tied to these works: four Grammys for 21-related achievements in 2012 and a fifth Grammy for Album of the Year on 25 in 2016. His role evolved from a key producer on the breakthrough album to a continued collaborator on the follow-up, solidifying his place as one of her most frequent creative partners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Paul Epworth?

He is an English record producer and musician born in 1974 who became a major figure in Adele's music career. His production style blends soul, pop, and rock elements to create powerful anthems.

What major awards did this collaboration earn him?

At the 54th Grammy ceremony, Epworth won three awards including Record of the Year and Producer of the Year. While Adele received Album of the Year, his individual contributions were heavily recognized by the industry.