Article written by Roger Casadejús Pérez
1. Foo Fighters & Brian May – “Rock the Sky”
In a collaboration that thrilled fans worldwide, Foo Fighters joined forces with Queen’s legendary guitarist Brian May to create “Rock the Sky”. Released in early 2021, this track is a powerhouse of guitar riffs and soaring vocals. The song exemplifies the perfect blend of Foo Fighters’ modern rock sound and May’s iconic guitar work, creating a timeless anthem that resonates with fans of all ages. The collaboration highlights the mutual respect and admiration between Dave Grohl and Brian May, making it a standout track of the decade.
2. The Killers & Bruce Springsteen – “Dustland”
When The Killers and Bruce Springsteen announced their collaboration, “Dustland,” the rock community was abuzz with anticipation. Released in mid-2021, this song is a reimagining of The Killers’ classic “A Dustland Fairytale,” with Springsteen adding his signature vocals and storytelling prowess. The collaboration is a perfect marriage of Brandon Flowers’ distinctive voice and Springsteen’s legendary presence, resulting in a track that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary.
3. Miley Cyrus & Joan Jett – “Bad Karma”
Miley Cyrus has consistently pushed the boundaries of rock music in the 2020s, and her collaboration with rock icon Joan Jett on “Bad Karma” is a testament to her versatility. Released as part of Cyrus’s 2020 album “Plastic Hearts,” the song features gritty guitar riffs and a rebellious attitude that pays homage to rock’s rebellious roots. Joan Jett’s influence is palpable throughout the track, adding an authentic rock edge that complements Cyrus’s powerful vocal delivery.
4. Ozzy Osbourne & Post Malone – “It’s a Raid”
Ozzy Osbourne, the Prince of Darkness, teamed up with rapper Post Malone for the high-energy track “It’s a Raid” from Osbourne’s 2020 album “Ordinary Man.” The collaboration blends heavy metal with hip-hop influences, creating a unique sound that bridges the gap between genres. Osbourne’s iconic voice pairs surprisingly well with Post Malone’s contemporary style, resulting in a dynamic track that showcases the versatility of both artists.
5. Tom Morello & Bring Me The Horizon – “Let Me Love You”
Guitar virtuoso Tom Morello joined forces with British rock band Bring Me The Horizon for the electrifying track “Let Me Love You.” Released in 2021, the song features Morello’s signature guitar work and Bring Me The Horizon’s explosive energy. The collaboration highlights Morello’s ability to adapt to different musical styles while maintaining his distinct sound, making it a standout track that pushes the boundaries of modern rock.
6. Elton John & Gorillaz – “The Pink Phantom”
In one of the most unexpected collaborations of the decade, Elton John teamed up with virtual band Gorillaz for “The Pink Phantom.” Released in 2020 as part of Gorillaz’s “Song Machine” project, the track combines John’s timeless piano melodies with Gorillaz’s eclectic sound. The song also features rapper 6LACK, adding another layer of depth to the collaboration. “The Pink Phantom” is a testament to the endless possibilities of musical partnerships, showcasing the unique talents of each artist involved.
7. Royal Blood & Josh Homme – “Boilermaker”
British rock duo Royal Blood collaborated with Queens of the Stone Age frontman Josh Homme on the track “Boilermaker.” Released as part of Royal Blood’s 2021 album “Typhoons,” the song features Homme’s production expertise and signature rock sound. “Boilermaker” is a high-octane track that captures the raw energy of both Royal Blood and Homme, resulting in a collaboration that stands out in the rock genre.
8. Pearl Jam & St. Vincent – “Dance of the Clairvoyants (St. Vincent Remix)”
Pearl Jam’s “Dance of the Clairvoyants” received a fresh twist with a remix by indie-rock artist St. Vincent. Released in 2020, the remix retains the original’s experimental rock elements while adding St. Vincent’s distinctive style. Her contribution brings a new dimension to the track, highlighting the potential of rock collaborations to reinvent classic sounds and reach new audiences.
9. Billie Eilish & Dave Grohl – “The End of the World as We Know It”
In a live performance that captivated audiences, Billie Eilish and Dave Grohl teamed up for a rendition of R.E.M.’s classic “The End of the World as We Know It.” The collaboration showcased Eilish’s haunting vocals alongside Grohl’s rock prowess, creating a performance that resonated with fans of both artists. This collaboration highlights the cross-generational appeal of rock music and its ability to unite artists from different backgrounds.
10. The Smashing Pumpkins & Poppy – “Kaleidostorm”
Alternative rock legends The Smashing Pumpkins collaborated with pop-metal artist Poppy on the track “Kaleidostorm.” Released in 2021, the song blends the Pumpkins’ iconic sound with Poppy’s experimental style, resulting in a track that defies genre boundaries. “Kaleidostorm” is a testament to the creative potential of rock collaborations, showcasing the innovative spirit of both artists.
11. Red Hot Chili Peppers & Childish Gambino – “California Dreamin'”
The Red Hot Chili Peppers teamed up with multi-talented artist Childish Gambino for a reimagined version of “California Dreamin’.” Released in 2022, the track features the Chili Peppers’ signature funk-rock sound paired with Gambino’s versatile vocal style. The collaboration breathes new life into the classic song, highlighting the timeless appeal of both the original and the artists involved.
Conclusion
The 2020s have been a remarkable decade for rock music, with collaborations playing a pivotal role in its evolution. From legendary icons teaming up with contemporary stars to unexpected pairings that push the boundaries of the genre, these collaborations have produced some of the most memorable tracks of the decade. As we move forward, the spirit of collaboration will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of rock music, inspiring new generations of musicians and fans alike. These 11 collaborations are just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting era for rock music.