Music collaborations have always been a powerful force in the industry, bringing together artists from different genres, generations, and backgrounds to create something truly magical. The most unexpected music collaborations often become the most memorable, breaking boundaries and defying expectations. From hip-hop legends teaming up with pop princesses to rock icons joining forces with country stars, these surprising partnerships have delivered some of the most iconic tracks in recent music history. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 30 music collaborations that shocked everyone and left an indelible mark on the industry.
“Old Town Road (Remix)” – Lil Nas X featuring Billy Ray Cyrus
When Lil Nas X dropped the remix of “Old Town Road” featuring country music veteran Billy Ray Cyrus in April 2019, the music world stood still. This collaboration bridged a gap between hip-hop and country that many thought impossible, creating a cultural phenomenon that dominated the Billboard Hot 100 for a record-breaking 19 consecutive weeks. The track’s success sparked important conversations about genre boundaries and race in country music, while also launching Lil Nas X into superstardom. Billy Ray Cyrus’s involvement gave the song credibility in country circles while maintaining its hip-hop authenticity, proving that genre-blending can create something entirely new and commercially viable.
“Levitating (Remix)” – Dua Lipa featuring DaBaby
Dua Lipa’s decision to bring DaBaby onto the remix of “Levitating” in 2020 was an unexpected but brilliant move that elevated an already massive hit. The British pop star’s disco-infused track gained a new dimension with DaBaby’s rapid-fire verses, creating a perfect balance between pop sensibility and hip-hop energy. The collaboration peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and became one of the longest-charting songs in history, spending over 68 weeks on the chart. This partnership demonstrated how modern pop music thrives on cross-genre experimentation, with the remix accumulating over 900 million streams on Spotify alone.
“WAP” – Cardi B featuring Megan Thee Stallion
Two of hip-hop’s most dominant female voices came together for “WAP” in August 2020, creating one of the most talked-about collaborations in recent memory. Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion’s unapologetically explicit anthem sparked cultural conversations while debuting at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The track’s production by Ayo & Keyz combined with the chemistry between these two powerhouse rappers resulted in a song that broke streaming records and dominated social media. With over 600 million views on YouTube within months of release, “WAP” proved that female rappers could command the same attention and commercial success as their male counterparts.
“Shallow” – Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper
Nobody expected Bradley Cooper’s directorial debut “A Star Is Born” to produce one of the decade’s most powerful duets. “Shallow” showcased Lady Gaga’s incredible vocal range alongside Cooper’s surprisingly impressive singing abilities, creating an emotional powerhouse that won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2019. The collaboration reached number one in multiple countries and earned over 2.5 billion streams on Spotify, proving that authentic emotion and vocal chemistry can transcend genre boundaries. The live performance at the 2019 Oscars became one of the most-watched and discussed moments in awards show history, cementing this collaboration’s place in music history.
“Déjà Vu” – Olivia Rodrigo
While not a traditional collaboration in terms of featured artists, “Déjà Vu” represents Olivia Rodrigo’s stunning collaboration with producer Dan Nigro, creating a sophisticated pop-rock sound that shocked industry observers who expected another straightforward pop ballad after “drivers license.” Released in April 2021, this track demonstrated Rodrigo’s versatility and established her as more than a one-hit wonder. The song’s complex arrangement and mature songwriting showcased a level of artistry unexpected from a debut artist, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100. For those interested in experiencing music at its finest quality, check out our guide to compare headphones to hear every nuance of these incredible productions.
“Stay” – The Kid LAROI and Justin Bieber
Australian rising star The Kid LAROI teaming up with pop giant Justin Bieber for “Stay” in July 2021 created a collaboration that dominated global charts for months. The infectious hook and emotional vulnerability displayed by both artists resonated with audiences worldwide, spending seven weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. What shocked fans was how seamlessly The Kid LAROI held his own alongside Bieber, with many arguing that the newcomer stole the show. The track has accumulated over 3 billion streams on Spotify, proving that mentor-mentee collaborations can create magic when both artists bring their A-game.
“Essence (Remix)” – Wizkid featuring Terms and Justin Bieber
Nigerian superstar Wizkid’s “Essence” was already a hit before Justin Bieber jumped on the remix in August 2021, but his addition helped propel the Afrobeats track into mainstream American consciousness. The collaboration shocked many who didn’t expect Bieber to embrace African music so authentically, with his smooth vocals complementing Wizkid and Tems perfectly. The remix reached number nine on the Billboard Hot 100, making it the first Nigerian song to crack the top ten. This collaboration opened doors for Afrobeats artists in the Western market and demonstrated the global nature of modern music consumption.
“Industry Baby” – Lil Nas X and Jack Harlow
Lil Nas X’s collaboration with Jack Harlow on “Industry Baby” in July 2021 was unexpected given their different musical approaches, but the combination proved explosive. The track’s bold production by Kanye West collaborator Take a Daytrip, combined with both artists’ confident delivery, created a hip-hop anthem that peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The controversial music video and unapologetic messaging shocked conservative audiences while celebrating LGBTQ+ pride in hip-hop. With over 1.5 billion streams on Spotify, this collaboration proved that authenticity and bold artistic choices resonate with modern audiences.
“Kiss Me More” – Doja Cat featuring SZA
Two of R&B and pop’s most innovative artists joined forces for “Kiss Me More” in April 2021, creating a collaboration that felt both surprising and inevitable. Doja Cat and SZA’s chemistry was undeniable, with their contrasting vocal styles creating a perfect balance on this disco-influenced track. The song peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance in 2022. What shocked audiences was how effortlessly both artists navigated between singing and rapping, showcasing their versatility and the evolution of contemporary R&B.
“Happier Than Ever” – Billie Eilish
Billie Eilish’s collaboration with her brother Finneas on “Happier Than Ever” showcased a shocking evolution in her sound, moving from whisper-pop to explosive rock. Released in July 2021 as the title track of her second album, this song demonstrated a level of musical maturity and anger that caught fans off guard. The track’s dramatic shift from gentle ballad to punk-rock crescendo proved that Eilish was not content to rest on her laurels. The collaboration between siblings created one of 2021’s most talked-about tracks, proving that sometimes the best partnerships come from those closest to you.
“Good 4 U” – Olivia Rodrigo
Olivia Rodrigo’s “Good 4 U” shocked the music world by channeling pop-punk energy reminiscent of Paramore, with producer Dan Nigro helping craft a sound that felt both nostalgic and fresh. Released in May 2021, this collaboration between artist and producer created a track that debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and accumulated over 2 billion streams on Spotify. The aggressive drums and distorted guitars were unexpected from an artist who had just released the ballad “drivers license,” proving Rodrigo’s range. Music enthusiasts looking to introduce younger generations to great tracks like this should explore our kids instrument quiz to spark musical interest early.
“Heat Waves” – Glass Animals
While not a collaboration with another artist, “Heat Waves” by Glass Animals represents a shocking collaboration between indie rock sensibilities and mainstream pop appeal. Released in 2020 but peaking in 2022, this track’s slow-burn success shocked everyone, including the band themselves. The song spent 59 weeks climbing to number one on the Billboard Hot 100, one of the longest journeys to the top in chart history. Producer and frontman Dave Bayley’s innovative approach to blending electronic elements with organic instrumentation created a sound that resonated across demographics, proving that patience and quality can still win in the streaming era.
“Peaches” – Justin Bieber featuring Daniel Caesar and Giveon
Justin Bieber’s decision to feature two R&B crooners, Daniel Caesar and Giveon, on “Peaches” in March 2021 created a surprisingly smooth collaboration that showcased vocal harmony at its finest. The track’s laid-back production and three-part harmony structure were unexpected from a Bieber single, showing his continued evolution as an artist. “Peaches” debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and demonstrated that sometimes less is more, with its minimalist production allowing the vocals to shine. This collaboration proved that Bieber’s ear for talent and willingness to share the spotlight elevates his music.
“Montero (Call Me By Your Name)” – Lil Nas X
Lil Nas X’s solo work on “Montero (Call Me By Your Name)” shocked audiences with its unapologetic celebration of queer sexuality, collaborating with producers Take a Daytrip and Omer Fedi. Released in March 2021, this track pushed boundaries both sonically and visually, with its controversial music video sparking international debate. The song peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and established Lil Nas X as more than just the “Old Town Road” guy. His collaboration with these forward-thinking producers created a sound that blended pop, hip-hop, and rock elements seamlessly.
“Leave The Door Open” – Silk Sonic (Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak)
When Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak announced their collaboration as Silk Sonic in early 2021, the music world was intrigued but skeptical. “Leave The Door Open” silenced all doubters, delivering a retro-soul masterpiece that felt both nostalgic and contemporary. The track won multiple Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year, and peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. What shocked audiences was how authentically both artists channeled 1970s soul music while maintaining modern relevance, proving that quality musicianship never goes out of style.
“Easy On Me” – Adele
Adele’s collaboration with producer Greg Kurstin on “Easy On Me” shocked fans who expected another powerhouse ballad like “Hello,” but instead received something more vulnerable and stripped-back. Released in October 2021 as the lead single from her album “30,” this track debuted at number one in multiple countries and broke streaming records. The minimal piano arrangement allowed Adele’s voice to shine through with raw emotion, demonstrating that sometimes the most shocking choice is simplicity. The song accumulated over 1.5 billion streams on Spotify within its first year, proving Adele’s continued dominance.
“Blinding Lights” – The Weeknd
The Weeknd’s collaboration with producers Max Martin and Oscar Holter on “Blinding Lights” created one of the biggest hits of the 2020s, spending four weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. Released in November 2019, this track’s 1980s synthwave production shocked fans expecting the darker R&B sound The Weeknd was known for. The song became the longest-charting song in Billboard Hot 100 history, spending 90 weeks on the chart and accumulating over 4 billion streams on Spotify. This collaboration proved that embracing retro sounds with modern production techniques can create timeless hits.
“Shivers” – Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran surprised fans by embracing uptempo pop-rock on “Shivers” in September 2021, collaborating with producers Johnny McDaid and Steve Mac. After years of acoustic ballads and hip-hop influenced tracks, this energetic guitar-driven song showcased a different side of Sheeran’s artistry. The track reached number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and demonstrated that established artists can still surprise their fanbase. This collaboration between Sheeran and his production team created one of his most infectious hooks, proving his ability to evolve while maintaining commercial appeal.
“Butter” – BTS
K-pop sensation BTS shocked the English-speaking music world with “Butter” in May 2021, a fully English-language track that showed their versatility beyond Korean pop. The collaboration with writers and producers including Rob Grimaldi and Stephen Kirk created a disco-pop confection that spent ten weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. What shocked Western audiences was how seamlessly BTS navigated English lyrics while maintaining their signature charm and choreography. The track set multiple streaming records and proved that language barriers are increasingly irrelevant in global pop music.
“Fancy Like” – Walker Hayes
Walker Hayes’ viral TikTok hit “Fancy Like” shocked the country music establishment when it crossed over to mainstream success in summer 2021. The collaboration with producers Cameron Bartolini, Josh Jenkins, and Shane Stevens created a track that blended country, pop, and hip-hop influences. The song reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100, an unprecedented achievement for an independent country artist. What shocked audiences was how a simple song about Applebee’s dates could resonate so powerfully, proving that authenticity and relatability trump big-budget productions.
“abcdefu” – GAYLE
Teenage artist GAYLE shocked the music industry with “abcdefu” in August 2021, a collaboration with producer David Pittenger that created a pop-punk breakup anthem. The song’s unapologetic anger and catchy melody resonated with Gen Z listeners, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100. What made this collaboration shocking was how a relatively unknown artist could achieve such massive success with her debut single, accumulating over 1 billion streams on Spotify. For music lovers wanting to experience these modern hits with optimal sound quality, our compare earbuds guide helps find the perfect listening device.
“Ghost” – Justin Bieber
Justin Bieber’s collaboration with producers Jon Bellion and The Monsters & Strangerz on “Ghost” created a surprisingly vulnerable and mature track in October 2021. The song’s emotional depth and polished production shocked fans expecting another dance-pop hit, instead delivering a heartfelt ballad about losing loved ones. “Ghost” peaked at number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and showcased Bieber’s continued growth as an artist willing to explore deeper themes. This collaboration proved that commercial success and artistic integrity can coexist in modern pop music.
“All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor’s Version)” – Taylor Swift featuring Chris Stapleton
Taylor Swift shocked the music world by releasing an extended ten-minute version of her beloved song “All Too Well” in November 2021, featuring country star Chris Stapleton on the remix. While the original solo version dominated charts and broke streaming records, the Stapleton collaboration added a new dimension to an already powerful song. The unexpected pairing of pop’s biggest star with country music’s most respected vocalist created a version that appealed to both fanbases. This collaboration demonstrated Swift’s ability to reimagine her own work while honoring her country music roots.
“The Motto” – Tiësto and Ava Max
When EDM legend Tiësto teamed up with pop vocalist Ava Max for “The Motto” in November 2021, the collaboration shocked fans of both artists who didn’t expect such a perfect fusion of dance music and pop hooks. The track’s infectious energy and Ava Max’s powerful vocals over Tiësto’s production created a club anthem that also worked for radio play. This collaboration proved that established EDM producers and pop vocalists can create something fresh by combining their strengths, with the song becoming a fixture on dance charts worldwide.
“Cold Heart (PNAU Remix)” – Elton John and Dua Lipa
The collaboration between legendary artist Elton John and pop sensation Dua Lipa on “Cold Heart (PNAU Remix)” in August 2021 shocked audiences with how seamlessly it blended generations and eras of music. Australian electronic duo PNAU masterfully combined samples from four different Elton John songs with Dua Lipa’s vocals, creating a track that reached number one on the UK Singles Chart. The intergenerational collaboration introduced Elton John’s catalog to younger audiences while giving Dua Lipa credibility among older listeners. With over 1 billion streams on Spotify, this unlikely partnership proved that classic songs can be reimagined for modern audiences.
“Smokin Out The Window” – Silk Sonic (Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak)
Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak’s second single as Silk Sonic, “Smokin Out The Window,” released in November 2021, shocked audiences by matching the quality of their debut. The track’s throwback soul sound and humorous lyrics about relationship frustrations created another hit that peaked at number five on the Billboard Hot 100. This collaboration further cemented Silk Sonic as more than a one-off project, with both artists displaying incredible chemistry and musicianship. The song’s live performances showcased their talent as both vocalists and instrumentalists, reminding audiences that authentic musicianship still matters.
“Girlfriend” – Dove Cameron
Former Disney star Dove Cameron shocked the music industry by releasing “Girlfriend” in February 2022, a sultry pop track that marked her transformation into a mature artist. The collaboration with producers Evan Blair and Oscar Görres created a sound that felt both contemporary and timeless, resonating particularly with LGBTQ+ audiences. The song went viral on TikTok and reached the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100, proving that child stars can successfully transition to adult music careers. Cameron’s confident delivery and the track’s hypnotic production created one of 2022’s most surprising breakout hits.
“Die For You (Remix)” – The Weeknd and Ariana Grande
When The Weeknd released a remix of his 2016 deep cut “Die For You” featuring Ariana Grande in March 2023, the collaboration shocked fans who had been requesting it for years. The unexpected duet breathed new life into a fan-favorite track, with Grande’s vocals adding a new emotional dimension. The remix peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, making it The Weeknd’s eighth number-one single and proving that sometimes the best collaborations are worth the wait. This partnership between two of pop’s biggest voices created a version that surpassed the already beloved original.
“Flowers” – Miley Cyrus
Miley Cyrus’s collaboration with producers Kid Harpoon and Tyler Johnson on “Flowers” in January 2023 created one of the year’s biggest hits and showcased her evolution as an artist. The empowering anthem about self-love shocked audiences with its maturity and polish, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 for eight weeks. What made this collaboration particularly shocking was how Cyrus managed to create a song that referenced her past while looking forward, with production that felt both retro and contemporary. The track became a cultural phenomenon, accumulating billions of streams and becoming an anthem for self-empowerment.
“Vampire” – Olivia Rodrigo
Olivia Rodrigo’s collaboration with producer Dan Nigro on “Vampire” in June 2023 shocked fans with its dramatic piano ballad structure that built into a rock crescendo. The lead single from her sophomore album “GUTS” demonstrated significant artistic growth, with more mature lyrics and sophisticated production. The song debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, proving that Rodrigo’s success was not a fluke. This collaboration showed that both artist and producer were willing to take risks and push boundaries, creating one of 2023’s most talked-about singles.
“Cruel Summer” – Taylor Swift
While originally released in 2019, Taylor Swift’s “Cruel Summer” shocked the music world by reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in October 2023, four years after its release. The collaboration with producers Jack Antonoff and St. Vincent created a synth-pop masterpiece that fans championed into becoming a late-blooming hit. This unprecedented chart journey proved that great songs can find their moment regardless of release strategy, and that fan dedication can change the trajectory of a track years after its debut. The song’s production showcased the innovative partnership between Swift and Antonoff, who have consistently pushed each other creatively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a music collaboration successful?
A successful music collaboration depends on several key factors including genuine chemistry between artists, complementary musical styles, and authentic creative vision. The best collaborations happen when artists bring their unique strengths while remaining open to experimentation and compromise. Commercial success, critical acclaim, and cultural impact all contribute to a collaboration’s legacy, but the most important element is creating something neither artist could have achieved alone. Successful collaborations also require strong production teams, clear communication, and a willingness to step outside comfort zones while respecting each artist’s individual identity.
Why are unexpected collaborations often more successful than predictable ones?
Unexpected collaborations generate more buzz and media attention because they defy audience expectations and create genuine curiosity about how different styles will blend. When artists from different genres or generations work together, they tap into multiple fanbases simultaneously, expanding their reach beyond their usual audiences. The element of surprise creates social media conversations and streaming curiosity, as listeners want to hear how these unlikely partnerships sound. Additionally, unexpected collaborations often push artists creatively, forcing them to adapt their styles and create something innovative rather than formulaic.
How has streaming changed the landscape of music collaborations?
Streaming platforms have revolutionized music collaborations by making it easier for artists to release multiple versions of songs, including remixes with different collaborators, without the constraints of physical media. Artists can now gauge audience reactions in real-time through streaming data and social media engagement, allowing them to make strategic decisions about future collaborations. The global nature of streaming has also facilitated international collaborations, with artists from different countries connecting and creating music that crosses cultural boundaries. Furthermore, streaming algorithms expose listeners to unexpected combinations of artists, creating demand for collaborations that might not have been considered in the pre-streaming era.
What role do producers play in creating shocking collaborations?
Producers are often the unsung heroes behind shocking collaborations, serving as musical mediators who blend different artists’ styles into cohesive tracks. Great producers understand how to highlight each artist’s strengths while creating a unified sound that serves the song rather than individual egos. They make crucial decisions about arrangements, instrumentation, and vocal production that can make or break a collaboration. Many successful collaborations feature producers who have worked with both artists previously, bringing institutional knowledge and trust to the creative process. Producers also help navigate creative disagreements and keep projects on track when multiple strong personalities are involved.
How do cross-genre collaborations impact the music industry?
Cross-genre collaborations break down traditional industry barriers and challenge radio format restrictions, forcing the music business to evolve its categorization systems. These partnerships introduce artists to new audiences who might never have discovered them otherwise, expanding career opportunities and revenue streams. Cross-genre work also influences emerging artists who see successful examples of genre-blending, leading to more experimentation in contemporary music. The success of collaborations like “Old Town Road” has prompted record labels to be more open-minded about signing and promoting artists who don’t fit traditional genre boxes. Additionally, these collaborations demonstrate that modern audiences care more about quality and authenticity than genre purity.
What impact do viral moments have on collaboration success?
Viral moments on platforms like TikTok and Instagram can transform collaborations from moderate successes into global phenomena, often determining whether a song reaches number one or stalls on the charts. Social media virality creates organic marketing that money cannot buy, with users creating countless videos using collaboration tracks as soundtracks. Artists and labels now strategically time collaboration releases with potential viral moments, including dance challenges, memes, and user-generated content campaigns. However, virality also creates pressure for authenticity, as audiences quickly reject collaborations that feel manufactured or solely designed to go viral. The most successful viral collaborations balance strategic planning with genuine artistic merit that resonates beyond the initial trend.
How do collaborations affect artists’ long-term careers?
Strategic collaborations can introduce established artists to new generations of fans while helping emerging artists gain credibility through association with respected names. For veteran artists, collaborations with younger stars can refresh their image and demonstrate relevance in contemporary music, potentially extending their careers by decades. New artists benefit from the increased visibility and streaming numbers that come from collaborating with established acts, though they must balance this exposure with maintaining their unique artistic identity. Collaborations also create networking opportunities that lead to future projects, tours, and business ventures beyond music. However, artists must be selective about collaborations to avoid diluting their brand or being overshadowed by more famous partners.