The Power of Unity: These Artist Collabs Helped Propel Their Careers
Written By: CJ Hall
The infamous statement, "there is power in numbers," isn’t one-dimensional by any means. Coming together in numbers really can push change and make way for advancements that improve our way of life. The philosophy holds true in artistry too—when artists team up to creatively blend their unique styles, platforms, and sounds, it has the potential to resonate with audiences in iconic ways, propelling rising stars and transforming them into household names.
Collaborations in general have been shown to increase visibility and streaming numbers for artists. According to a study by Music Business Worldwide, tracks featuring high-profile collaborations tend to outperform solo releases by up to 30%, driving up chart positions and creating opportunities for cross-promotion across fanbases.
When artists come together it’s about amplifying their reach and connecting with listeners in new, powerful ways. This article explores how unity in music can spark something greater than the sum of its parts.
Here are a few standout partnerships that showcase the power of connection between two rising talents:
Lil Uzi and Playboi Carti
Lil Uzi Vert and Playboi Carti’s collaboration on “Wokeuplikethis” was more than just a moment in time—it was a glimpse into the shared energy that fueled the duo’s rise in hip-hop. The two were more than collaborators; they’re actually friends who locked in understanding each other’s creative vision and found a route to play off that connection in their music. “Wokeuplikethis” is inevitably an anthem for a generation of listeners drawn to the raw, rebellious sound of the new wave of rap. Uzi and Carti’s bond brought a fresh authenticity to their music, propelling them both to stardom and solidifying their influence in the era of SoundCloud rap.
SZA and Travis Scott
When SZA and Travis Scott teamed up for the 2017 hit “Love Galore,” it marked a turning point in both of their careers. For SZA, the track was a key moment in her rise to stardom, helping to propel her debut album Ctrl into the mainstream. The album went on to receive critical acclaim and several award nominations, solidifying SZA’s place as one of the leading voices in R&B. Her collaboration with Travis Scott thoughtfully blended her raw, soulful style with his ethereal, trap-infused sound, creating a radio hit that helped chart Sza for the first time on Billboard’s Hot 100. For Travis, “Love Galore” was a milestone in his growth, building on his growing reputation and helping him rise to become one of hip-hop’s biggest stars.
Kanye West and Kid Cudi
Kanye West and Kid Cudi’s collaboration on “Day ‘n’ Nite” was a huge moment for both artists. Before the mainstream success of “Day ‘n’ Nite,” Kid Cudi was an enigma in the hip-hop scene. But Kanye, with his unrelenting creativity and innovative production style, saw the potential in Cudi’s experimental sound and emotional depth. Their joint projects, like Kid Cudi & Kanye West's Kids See Ghosts, allowed both artists to explore new musical territories, blending Cudi’s introspective style and infamous hums with Kanye’s colorful approach to production.
Jhene Aiko and Childish Gambino
Jhené Aiko and Childish Gambino’s collaboration on "Bed Peace" in 2013 came at a time when both artists were carving out their own unique spaces in music. Jhené, with her calm, ethereal sound, and Gambino, blending hip-hop, R&B, and funk, brought an effortless, yet powerful synergy to the track. In 2013, both were still on the cusp of mainstream recognition, and “Bed Peace” allowed them to reach new listeners. For Jhené, it marked a key moment in her journey, pushing her profile ahead of the release of her acclaimed album Souled Out. For Gambino, it showcased his versatility and further solidified his ability to blend genres, paving the way for his continued success in both music and other creative ventures.
HER and Daniel Caesar
When H.E.R. and Daniel Caesar teamed up for "Best Part" in 2017, it was a moment. The track's smooth, emotional vibe showed both artists' raw vulnerability and chemistry, quickly becoming a modern R&B classic and romantic staple. For H.E.R., it marked her emergence from anonymity, stamping her as a powerful force within the R&B genre. For Daniel Caesar, it catapulted him to new heights, earning critical acclaim and a Grammy. "Best Part" was the perfect collab, boosting both artists' depth and propelling their careers to the forefront.