Amerie Leaked "1 Thing" Because Columbia Records Wanted To Give The Song To Her Label Mate Jennifer Lopez

Amerie’s 2005 breakout hit “1 Thing” is now considered one of the most defining R&B tracks of the 2000s. Its infectious go-go beat, produced by Rich Harrison, and Amerie’s electrifying vocal delivery made it an instant classic. But what fans may not know is that the song’s release was almost derailed—by her own label.

Columbia Records, which housed both Amerie and Jennifer Lopez at the time, reportedly had plans to give “1 Thing” to Lopez instead. Despite being written specifically with Amerie in mind—and tailored to her unique vocal style and musical energy—industry politics nearly redirected the hit to a bigger name.

Amerie, sensing what was happening behind the scenes, took matters into her own hands. In a risky move that could have jeopardized her career, she leaked the song herself, ensuring that the public heard her version before the label could make a switch. The gamble paid off.

“1 Thing” became a massive success, peaking at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100, earning a Grammy nomination for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance, and going gold with over 500,000 units sold in the United States alone. The single not only solidified Amerie’s place in R&B history but also highlighted the challenges that many artists—especially Black women—face when navigating label politics.

The story of “1 Thing” is more than just the making of a hit. It’s about creative control, artist integrity, and the willingness to bet on yourself when no one else will. Amerie’s bold decision helped her claim ownership of her biggest song—and ensured that her voice, not someone else’s, would be the one the world heard.

In hindsight, the industry move that could’ve buried Amerie’s moment instead became the catalyst for her biggest triumph. “1 Thing” wasn't just a hit—it was a declaration.