This article discusses the 10 most successful music collaborations of the century based on sales, critical acclaim, and overall popularity. Collaborations have become increasingly popular in the 21st century and have produced numerous hits that showcased the talents of multiple artists. The successful collaborations include “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars, “Shape of You” by Ed Sheeran featuring Stormzy, “Love the Way You Lie” by Eminem featuring Rihanna, “Crazy in Love” by Beyoncé featuring Jay-Z, and “Closer” by The Chainsmokers featuring Halsey, among others. These collaborations have left an indelible impact on the music industry and continue to dominate the charts today.
10 Most Successful Music Collaborations of the Century
Collaborations in the music industry have been happening for decades, with two or more artists joining forces to create a hit song that fans cannot resist. In the 21st century, music collaborations have become increasingly popular, and many iconic songs owe their success to the work of two or more artists. This article will take a look at the 10 most successful music collaborations of the century, based on sales, critical acclaim, and overall popularity.
1. “Uptown Funk” – Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
Released in 2014, “Uptown Funk” quickly became one of the most popular songs of the year. The collaboration between British DJ Mark Ronson and American singer Bruno Mars topped charts worldwide and won numerous awards, including Record of the Year at the 2016 Grammy Awards. The song has sold over 31 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling singles of all time.
2. “Shape of You” – Ed Sheeran ft. Stormzy
Ed Sheeran’s “Shape of You” was already a huge hit on its own, but when the British rapper Stormzy added a verse to the remix, the song became even more popular. The collaboration was unexpected but hugely successful, showcasing both artists’ talents and introducing rap fans to Sheeran’s unique sound. “Shape of You” was the best-selling single of 2017 and has sold over 26 million copies worldwide.
3. “Love the Way You Lie” – Eminem ft. Rihanna
Eminem and Rihanna’s “Love the Way You Lie” was a powerful collaboration that tackled the difficult topic of domestic abuse. The song was a huge hit, topping charts worldwide and earning critical acclaim for its raw lyrics and emotional performances. “Love the Way You Lie” has sold over 23 million copies worldwide and remains one of the most impactful collaborations of the 21st century.
4. “Crazy in Love” – Beyoncé ft. Jay-Z
Power couple Beyoncé and Jay-Z collaborated on “Crazy in Love” in 2003, and the song quickly became one of the most popular of the year. The infectious beat, Beyoncé’s powerful vocals, and Jay-Z’s smooth flow created a perfect storm of talent that fans couldn’t resist. “Crazy in Love” won two Grammy Awards and has sold over 8 million copies worldwide.
5. “Closer” – The Chainsmokers ft. Halsey
“Closer” by The Chainsmokers featuring Halsey was one of the biggest hits of 2016, remaining at the top of the charts for months. The collaboration between the electro-pop duo and the rising star Halsey was unexpected but hugely successful, showcasing both artists’ talents and introducing them to new audiences. “Closer” has sold over 13 million copies worldwide and remains one of the most popular collaborations of recent years.
6. “Happy” – Pharrell Williams ft. Despicable Me 2 soundtrack
“Happy” by Pharrell Williams was not originally intended as a collaboration, but its inclusion on the Despicable Me 2 soundtrack introduced the song to a wider audience. The upbeat, catchy track became an instant hit, topping charts worldwide and winning numerous awards. “Happy” has sold over 24 million copies worldwide and remains one of the most popular songs of the century.
7. “Old Town Road” – Lil Nas X ft. Billy Ray Cyrus
“Old Town Road” by Lil Nas X featuring Billy Ray Cyrus was a surprise hit that dominated the charts for weeks on end. The collaboration between the young rapper and the country veteran created a unique sound that fans couldn’t get enough of, and the song quickly became a viral sensation. “Old Town Road” has sold over 18 million copies worldwide and remains one of the most iconic collaborations of recent years.
8. “Can’t Hold Us” – Macklemore and Ryan Lewis ft. Ray Dalton
“Can’t Hold Us” by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis featuring Ray Dalton was a breakout hit in 2013, showcasing the duo’s unique blend of rap and electronic music. The collaboration with Ray Dalton added an extra level of energy to the already infectious song, and “Can’t Hold Us” quickly became a fan favorite. The song has sold over 13 million copies worldwide and remains one of the most popular collaborations of the decade.
9. “We Found Love” – Rihanna ft. Calvin Harris
“We Found Love” by Rihanna featuring Calvin Harris was a club hit that quickly crossed over into the mainstream. The collaboration between the pop superstar and the Scottish DJ created a powerful dance track that fans couldn’t resist, and the song became one of the best-selling singles of the year. “We Found Love” has sold over 12 million copies worldwide and remains one of Rihanna’s most popular collaborations.
10. “Hotline Bling” – Drake ft. Timmy Thomas
“Hotline Bling” by Drake featuring Timmy Thomas was a breakout hit in 2015, showcasing the Canadian rapper’s unique blend of hip-hop and R&B. The collaboration with Timmy Thomas added a nostalgic touch to the already catchy song, and “Hotline Bling” quickly became a fan favorite. The song has sold over 9 million copies worldwide and remains one of Drake’s most popular collaborations.
Conclusion
Collaborations have become increasingly popular in the music industry, introducing audiences to new sounds and creating some of the biggest hits of recent years. The 10 most successful collaborations of the century have all left a lasting impact on the industry, showcasing the talents of some of the biggest names in music. From “Uptown Funk” to “Hotline Bling,” these collaborations have become iconic and continue to dominate the charts today.