Duffy hit saves struggling songwriter

Duffy's chart-topping single 'Mercy' helped save the career of songwriter Steve Booker, reports The Guardian.

Booker had previously worked as a songwriter with Natalie Imbruglia and Heather Small. He later moved into producing after his songwriting career stalled but found it too expensive to keep up with the latest production technology. Running into debt, Booker was forced sell his flat at the start of 2007.

The buyer of Booker's flat was Welsh soul singer Duffy, who informed him she was working on her first album. The two started to work together and Booker produced and co-wrote three tracks on Duffy's Rockferry album.

After the first industry showcase for Duffy's debut LP, Booker had publishing deal offers from EMI and Universal. After a bidding war, he signed a lucrative deal with label Universal where he is currently writing and producing with Sophie Delila.

Duffy's 'Mercy' is currently in its fourth week at the top of the UK charts.

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