The song was written by Sterling Fox, Canadian singer-songwriter Chantal Kreviazuk, Shimon Moore of the hard rock band Sick Puppies, and Mike Fiorentino.

The song was produced in New York several days before the finale by Sterling Fox, with additional production by Andrew Horowitz and Koby Hass.

[6] Ashley of The Hollywood Reporter wrote Levine's Matt McAndrew unveiled the heartbreaking original "Wasted Love", from writers Sterling Fox, Chantal Kreviazuk, Shimon Moore and Mike Fiorentino.

It's the standout among the three finalists' originals, and puts him on the cusp of checking that tattoo box on his arm he's left open for when he signs a record deal.

Shot in the expansive Hollywood hills, McAndrew performs in front of the beautiful city, singing straight to the camera and playing the piano.