The Female Collaborations That Defined the 2020s
The 2020s have marked a shift in how women in music show up for each other. These collaborations aren’t just strategic—they’re intentional, emotional, and often deeply symbolic. Each song tells its own story, but together, they build a bigger one: women choosing collaboration over competition.
Taylor Swift × Phoebe Bridgers — “Nothing New”
A quiet, devastating reflection on growing up in the public eye, “Nothing New” becomes more powerful because it’s shared. Phoebe Bridgers doesn’t just echo Taylor Swift—she validates her. The song feels like a passing of perspective rather than a passing of the torch, capturing the anxiety of being replaced while proving that there’s room for both voices.
Lady Gaga × Ariana Grande — “Rain On Me”
What could have been just a pop anthem turns into something more layered. “Rain On Me” channels resilience—two women who have both faced intense public scrutiny coming together to celebrate survival. Their chemistry is explosive, but the emotional core is what gives the song longevity.
SZA × Doja Cat — “Kiss Me More”
Playful on the surface, “Kiss Me More” is a masterclass in balance. SZA’s softness and Doja Cat’s charisma blend seamlessly, creating a track where neither artist dominates. It’s a reminder that collaboration can be effortless—and still impactful.
ROSALÍA × Tokischa — “Linda”
Chaotic, bold, and unapologetic, “Linda” rejects expectations. Rosalía and Tokischa lean into their individuality instead of smoothing it out, creating a track that celebrates freedom, femininity, and defiance—especially within the Latin music space.
Karol G × Shakira — “TQG”
More than a hit, “TQG” is a cultural reset. Karol G and Shakira transform personal narratives into collective empowerment, standing side by side as two generations of Latina artists. It’s not about comparison—it’s about continuity.
Charli XCX × Lorde — “Girl, so confusing (Remix)”
This collaboration feels almost meta. Instead of ignoring speculation about tension, Charli XCX and Lorde address it directly. The result is raw, self-aware, and refreshingly honest—turning perceived rivalry into something real and collaborative.
Beabadoobee × María Zardoya — “All I Did Was Dream of You”
Soft and atmospheric, this track feels like a shared dream. María Zardoya’s presence enhances rather than competes, blending seamlessly into Beabadoobee’s world. It’s collaboration at its most subtle—two artists creating a mood together.
Taylor Swift × Gracie Abrams — “us”
While not tied to a single defining track, this collaboration represents mentorship in motion. By bringing Gracie Abrams into her space, Taylor Swift extends her platform, reinforcing the idea that success can—and should—be shared.
PinkPantheress × Zara Larsson — “stateside remix”
This pairing bridges two different pop worlds. PinkPantheress’ minimalist, UK-driven sound meets Zara Larsson’s polished pop energy, creating a collaboration that feels fresh without compromising either identity.
BLACKPINK × Selena Gomez — “Ice Cream”
Bright, playful, and global, “Ice Cream” is a crossover moment that works because it feels equal. It’s not one artist featuring another—it’s two worlds meeting, expanding what global pop collaboration can look like.
Doja Cat × Saweetie — “Best Friend”
A celebration of friendship, “Best Friend” flips the script on typical narratives in rap. Instead of rivalry, it centers loyalty and joy—making collaboration feel like celebration.
Mitski × Katie Gavin — “As Good As It Gets”
Rooted in vulnerability, this pairing represents a quieter form of collaboration. It’s less about mainstream visibility and more about shared emotional language and queer storytelling.
boygenius — (collective work)
Made up of Phoebe Bridgers, Lucy Dacus, and Julien Baker, boygenius redefines collaboration entirely. There’s no hierarchy—just three artists building something bigger together.
