The song "Impossible" has been recorded by numerous artists across various genres, making it difficult to identify a single writer without additional context. However, when discussing the most globally recognized version, the overwhelming consensus points to the 2010 hit by British-Norwegian pop group M2M. The international success of this track, which dominated charts in the early 2000s, leads listeners directly to the songwriters behind the catchy pop melody.
The Primary Songwriters: Marion Ravn and Marit Larsen
Despite being performed by the duo M2M, the pen behind "Impossible" was very much a solo effort from one member of the partnership. The song was written by Marion Ravn, who provided the vocals for the track, alongside her then-bandmate Marit Larsen. While M2M is the performing artist, the lyrical and musical composition originated from within the duo, specifically from Ravn's personal experiences and Larsen's collaborative songwriting process.
Breaking Down the Composition Credits
Music databases and publishing records clearly attribute the writing credits for "Impossible" to Marion Ravn and Marit Larsen. These credits are consistent across major streaming platforms and official releases. The song was crafted during a period when the duo was actively creating music, and it became the lead single that propelled their album "Shades of Purple" to platinum status, solidifying their place in pop history.
Global Impact and Chart Performance
Released in 2000, "Impossible" became a defining song of the era, reaching number one in Norway and the top ten in the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. The song's success was a direct result of its relatable lyrics about the frustration of loving someone who does not feel the same way. This universal theme, paired with M2M's harmonious delivery, allowed the track to resonate with a wide international audience, making the writers' work instantly recognizable.
The Legacy of the Track
Over two decades later, "Impossible" remains a staple of 2000s pop culture, frequently featured in retrospectives and playlists. The song's enduring popularity ensures that the names Marion Ravn and Marit Larsen are forever linked to its success. While cover versions exist, the original composition and songwriting are firmly credited to these two Norwegian artists, who captured the specific emotional texture of teenage heartbreak with precision.
Distinguishing From Other Songs Titled "Impossible"
It is important to note that several other songs share the title "Impossible." For instance, the R&B group The Impressions recorded a different song with the same name in the 1960s, written by Curtis Mayfield. Similarly, James Arthur released a powerful ballad titled "Impossible" in 2012, which he co-wrote with Anders Bagge and Sharon Vaughn. However, when referring to the iconic pop song synonymous with the title, the M2M version remains the primary reference, pointing directly to Ravn and Larsen.
Summary of Authorship
While the stage name M2M brought the song to life, the creative force behind the music came from the individual talents within the duo. Marion Ravn and Marit Larsen worked in tandem to create a hit that defined a generation of pop music. Their collaboration on "Impossible" remains a testament to their songwriting prowess, ensuring that the question of "who wrote the song impossible" is answered clearly with their names whenever the M2M version is the subject.
