Montell Jordan Originally Wrote Deborah Cox's "Nobody Supposed To Be Here" For Patti Labelle, But She Turned It Down

What if one of the greatest R&B ballads of the late '90s was actually meant for another legendary voice? That’s the case with Deborah Cox’s iconic hit, “Nobody’s Supposed to Be Here.” Originally written by Montell Jordan, the song was first intended for none other than Patti LaBelle—but she turned it down.

In a 2022 interview with VladTV, Montell Jordan revealed the backstory behind the track’s origins. While many fans associate the emotional ballad with Deborah Cox’s soaring vocals, Montell admitted that the lyrics were filled with subtle nods to Patti LaBelle, whom he had in mind when penning the song.

For instance, the line “This time I swear I’m through, but if only you knew…” isn’t just dramatic R&B writing—it’s a direct reference to Patti LaBelle’s 1983 hit “If Only You Knew.” And the phrase “this lovely black butterfly”? That’s a tribute to a signature move Patti would perform on stage, evoking the image of grace and transformation.

Montell shared that he leaned into his “rap sensibilities” when writing the song, using clever lyrical nods and layered references to LaBelle’s artistry. But despite the personal touches, Patti ultimately passed on the track—leaving the door open for Deborah Cox to claim it and take it to legendary status.

Released in 1998, “Nobody’s Supposed to Be Here” became a massive hit for Cox, spending a record-breaking 14 weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. It solidified her place in R&B history—but knowing the song’s original muse adds a whole new layer of depth.

Sometimes, a song finds its perfect voice in unexpected ways. And while Patti LaBelle passed on the record, Montell Jordan’s soulful writing and clever tributes still made their way to the spotlight—through Deborah Cox’s unforgettable performance.