25 unexpected artist collaborations that actually worked

This genre-blending track wowed fans across multiple scenes. From rap lovers to rock stars, it appealed to every group. The crossover certainly goes down in history as one of the most iconic collabs.

When you merge a vocal powerhouse with an EDM legend, you get pure magic, which is exactly what “Sweet Nothing” is. Calvin Harris’s collab with Florence Welch was one of the best of its time. Florence’s unique, sharp voice added a rawness to the electronic track.

“Take What You Want” is another incredible collab between three talented artists. Ozzy from Black Sabbath added a rock feel that elevated the rap track to another level. Not to mention, the guitar solo by Andrew Watt is what sold it for me.

There was a ton of controversy surrounding this collab, as Eminem was under fire at the time of the performance. However, many believe it was a cultural reset of sorts, which Elton John seemingly came to the rapper’s defense. The performance received a standing ovation and was the talk of the town for quite some time.

This country-pop duet stole the hearts of many fans in the early 1980s. Dolly and Kenny’s romantic, heartwarming harmony seamlessly blends the two genres. The song itself has been widely covered and sampled for decades to follow.

"FourFiveSeconds" was a unique collaboration that took many fans by surprise. In fact, even some of the most loyal fans of each artist had mixed feelings about the track. However, the acoustic pop, hip-hop, and soul mashup certainly was iconic in its time.

Yes, I am including a Christmas song on this list of legendary artist collabs. Both "Peace on Earth" and "Little Drummer Boy" are beloved Christmas tunes, and this mashup is no different. When David Bowie was invited to be on Bing Crosby’s Christmas, many fans were shocked that Bing asked such an edgy artist. However, their voices merged to create a hauntingly beautiful and festive duet.

Country meets rap? That was certainly a new one for its time in 2004. However, Nelly and Tim McGraw’s “Over and Over” captured the hearts of many country and rap fans alike. The track allowed both artists to showcase their unique strengths. 

This hip-hop/rock masterpiece was a fan favorite during its time. The songs alone were bangers, but the mashup elevated the experience even further. Of course, this wasn’t the only song Jay-Z and Linkin Park collaborated on. They released an entire mashup EP called Collision Course, so there’s plenty more where that comes from. 

This is one of my all-time favorite collaborations. With The National’s devastating vocals, Taylor Swift’s enchanting harmonies, the gorgeous piano, and heartbreaking lyrics, this song is a haunting breakup ballad. The indie and pop mashup is a must-hear.

I’ve loved The Flaming Lips ever since I heard “Do You Realize??” I grew up on Miley Cyrus. That being said, it’s no shock that this collaboration made the list. While unexpected, the two artists blend effortlessly together to create a unique psychedelic pop track.

You’d be shocked by the unexpected chemistry between Coldplay and Rihanna. “Princess of China” is an incredibly cinematic, powerful track. Both artists’ vocals add unique elements to an incredibly catchy beat.

I was raised on Blink-182, often (half) joking that the band was my first love. When I learned of their collab with XXXTENTACION, I knew I’d adore the mashup. This hauntingly beautiful song is complemented by both XXXTENTACION and Mark Hoppus’s emotive vocals, as well as Travis Barker’s iconic drumming. The lyrics themselves are sure to strike an emotional chord.

If you’re into dark, moody, and anthemic music, “Tranquilize” is an ideal mashup for you. This collab between The Killers and Lou Reed includes brilliant lyrics, powerful spoken word, and a wildly theatrical delivery. The song didn’t receive nearly as much attention as it deserved, but it's certainly a phenomenal track. 

Another bold and political song is XXX by Kendrick Lamar and U2. Blending rap with rock influences (thanks to U2’s feature), the collab is a powerful and conscious hip-hop track worth listening to. U2’s vocals slow down the song, steering it into a more reflective and sorrowful direction.

This reggae-rap hit is the perfect summer mashup. The Beastie Boys & Santigold collaborated for a golden track that sets the ideal beach day vibe. Merging hip-hop with an alternative/indie feel, “Don’t Play No Game That I Can’t Win” was a unique collab that truly outdid itself.

Pop singer Michelle Branch brought a dynamic energy to Santana’s “The Game of Love.” The Grammy-winning pop-rock song quickly became a fan favorite in the early 2000s. Michelle’s strong vocals perfectly complement Santana’s iconic Latin-infused guitar work.

Johnny Cash and Bob Dylan are two of America's most infamous and beloved icons. Their collab proved that oftentimes, two is better than one. Their voices blend to create a gorgeous folk ballad in “Girl from the North Country.”

A more recent collaboration, released in 2023, “Separate Ways” is a dreamy lo-fi indie track. Merging Eyedress’s pop and electronic styles with The Marias’s indie pop sound, the song blends seamlessly together. 

This shocking jazz duet proved the versatility of Lady Gaga’s voice. Tony Bennet is known and loved for his warm, traditional jazz sound. However, with Lady Gaga’s powerful vocals added to the mix, “Cheek to Cheek” is elevated to an entirely new level.

Fans of both grunge and indie music will adore the unexpected, unique collab between Bully and Soccer Mommy. “Lose You” is an iconic combo of both female artists’ strengths as singer-songwriters. Fans were left craving more from this power duo.

Another unexpected collaboration is Stevie Wonder and Ariana Grande. The two worked together on a song called “Faith” for the 2016 movie Sing. This is a fun and soulful tune — one you can’t help but dance to.

“Instant Crush” merges synth-pop and indie in an effortless manner. Daft Punk’s electronic style is shockingly complemented by Julian Casablancas' (lead singer of The Strokes) signature vocals. Fans were blown away by this collaboration.

David Guetta’s collab with Sia was pretty much an instant hit, and for good reason. Sia’s powerful, sharp vocals are mixed effortlessly with David’s incredible house-style production. “Titanium” quickly became an EDM track.

Electronic music producer ZHU is known for his captivating creations. Tame Impala, on the other hand, is a popular psychedelic pop group. The two icons collaborated on “My Life” for a smooth, immersive experience that fans adored.