Who Wrote the Song “Missing You”? A Durable Guide to the Most Common Versions

The question “who wrote the song Missing You” has multiple correct answers, because several well-known songs share that title. This guide disambiguates the most prominent versions, names their composers and lyricists, and clarifies rights and credits. Where public records and authoritative sources allow, we include year, publisher, and notable performers to help you identify the correct song and its creator.

Primary Context: John Waite’s “Missing You”

When many listeners ask who wrote the song “Missing You,” they refer to John Waite’s 1984 hit. That recording was written by three songwriters: John Waite, Mark Leonard, and Adam Small. It was produced by Richie Zito and featured on Waite’s album No Brakes. The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1984 and remains a staple of adult contemporary and classic rock playlists. Credits are confirmed by publishing records and chart documentation.

Song Credits: John Waite’s “Missing You”

Chaka Khan’s “Missing You”

Another frequently asked “who wrote the song Missing You” refers to Chaka Khan’s 1984 recording. That version was written by the British songwriter Mick Leeson and Canadian musician Peter Vale. It appears on Chaka Khan’s I Feel for You album and was produced by Arif Mardin. The track is distinct in style and narrative from Waite’s version, often described as a smooth, synth-driven ballad.

Song Credits: Chaka Khan’s “Missing You”

Other Notable Songs Titled “Missing You”

Several other performers have released songs called “Missing You,” including Dan Fogelberg, Mary Chapin Carpenter, and contemporary artists. Because publishing databases and search indexes vary by region and language, this list is non-exhaustive and focuses on entries with reliable, citable sources.

• Dan Fogelberg — wrote and recorded a track titled “Missing You” on a 1970s–1980s era album; confirm specific year and credits via publishing records.
• Mary Chapin Carpenter — included a song called “Missing You” on a compilation or special release; verify writer credits in official liner notes.
• Various streaming-era artists have registered the same title; credits can be checked via ISWC lookup at your local performing rights society.

How to Find Writer Credits for “Missing You”

To determine who wrote a particular recording of “Missing You,” follow these steps. These methods are practical for consumers, researchers, and content creators who need accurate rights information.

1. Identify the artist and release year of the version you are referencing.
2. Check the liner notes, digital metadata (ID3 tags), or official music databases for writer credits.
3. Search performing rights society repertoires (e.g., BMI, ASCAP, PRS) using the song title and writer names.
4. Cross-reference with discographies and authoritative label catalog entries to confirm ISWC and ISAN codes.

Why Multiple Writers Exist for the Same Title

It is common for different songwriters to independently compose works with identical or similar titles. Copyright systems do not prevent two creators from writing separate, original songs called “Missing You,” provided the underlying melodic and lyrical content is distinct. In the cases above, John Waite’s composition and Chaka Khan’s composition are legally and musically separate works, each owned by its respective writers and publishers.

Copyright and Usage Considerations

Whether you want to cover, sample, or use a recording of “Missing You” in public, you must clear both the musical composition (songwriting) and the sound recording (master) rights. Contact the appropriate performing rights organization and, if needed, the record label or their licensing agents. Using a version-specific reference can streamline the process and reduce clearance errors.

Quick Comparison of Major “Missing You” Recordings

Because “Missing You” is an evergreen title with multiple commercial recordings, understanding who wrote the specific version in question helps ensure accurate attribution, licensing, and citation. Use this guide as a durable reference for identifying composers, interpreting credits, and locating authoritative sources for each recording.