English singer-songwriter Birdy has recorded songs for two studio albums and guest features. After signing a contract with record label 14th Floor Records in 2008, Birdy began to work on her self-titled debut studio album, which was ultimately released in November 2011. Produced by Rich Costey and Jim Abbiss, it consists of cover versions and original songs. The first single released from the album was a cover of Bon Iver's song "Skinny Love". Other covers included "Shelter" originally performed by The xx and Cherry Ghost's "People Help the People". Birdy wrote two original songs for the album: "Without a Word" and "Just a Game". At this time, she also collaborated with Mumford & Sons on the song "Learn Me Right" for the Brave soundtrack (2012).
Birdy released her second studio, Fire Within, in September 2013. In addition to reuniting with writers with whom she had previously worked, the singer collaborated with several new writers and producers. The album's lead single, "Wings", was co-written by Birdy and Ryan Tedder. Birdy also collaborated with Ben Lovett on the songs "No Angel" and "Dream", and shared writing credits with Dan Wilson on "All You Never Say", "Maybe" and "All About You".