8 Iconic Rock Duets of the 1980s

The 1980s were a golden era for music collaborations, creating some of the most unforgettable duets in rock history. These team-ups crossed genre boundaries and showcased unique combinations of vocalists, leaving lasting marks on the music world.

“State Of Shock” – Jackson 5 (Ft. Michael Jackson And Mick Jagger)

When Michael Jackson and Mick Jagger teamed up for “State Of Shock,” they created an electrifying tune that showcased their individual styles and collective charisma. Jagger, known for his dynamic presence with The Rolling Stones, matched well with Jackson’s impeccable vocal delivery and stage prowess. The song itself, bursting with energy and a funky rock rhythm, captured the essence of both artists’ iconic sounds. Despite both artists having collaborated with other legends like David Bowie and Paul McCartney, their partnership in this track stood out as a highlight in their careers, brimming with a raw energy seldom replicated in their other collaborations.

“Close My Eyes Forever” – Lita Ford And Ozzy Osbourne

The unexpected pairing of Lita Ford and Ozzy Osbourne in “Close My Eyes Forever” brought together the worlds of heavy metal and hard rock in a powerful ballad. Ford, a former member of the Runaways, and Osbourne, a rock legend, found a surprising harmony in their vocal contrasts. The song not only highlighted their talents but also gave a boost to their careers during a time when both were looking to reinvent themselves. The emotional depth of the lyrics, combined with their heartfelt delivery, made this duet a standout track of the decade, resonating with fans of both artists and leaving a lasting impression.

“Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around” – Stevie Nicks And Tom Petty

This duet between Stevie Nicks and Tom Petty emerged as a rock anthem that masterfully blended their distinctive styles. Written by Petty and his bandmate Mike Campbell, the song was initially intended for Petty’s own album but was later given to Nicks for her solo debut. The chemistry between Nicks and Petty in “Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around” was palpable, with Nicks’ sultry voice complementing Petty’s raw vocal tone. The song became a major hit, thanks to its catchy chorus and compelling guitar riffs, securing its place as one of the most memorable duets of the era.

“When Love Comes To Town” – U2 And B.B. King

In “When Love Comes To Town,” the merging of U2’s rock with B.B. King’s blues created an exciting cross-genre collaboration. The song featured on U2’s “Rattle and Hum” album, highlighting the band’s exploration of American music traditions. King’s gritty guitar playing and soulful vocals added a new dimension to U2’s sound, enriching the musical landscape of the track. The collaboration was not only a significant moment for the band but also brought B.B. King’s legendary blues flair to a younger audience, celebrating the union of different musical generations and styles.

“What Have I Done To Deserve This?” – Pet Shop Boys And Dusty Springfield

The collaboration between the Pet Shop Boys and Dusty Springfield on “What Have I Done To Deserve This?” marked a significant comeback for Springfield, pairing her rich vocal tones with the synth-pop style of the Pet Shop Boys. Released in the late 1980s, this track blended the poignant lyrics with an energetic beat, creating a hit that climbed the charts globally. Springfield’s expressive delivery brought depth to the song’s reflective questions about love and loss, while the Pet Shop Boys’ production enveloped her voice in a vibrant electronic arrangement, breathing new life into her illustrious career.

“Separate Lives” – Phil Collins And Marilyn Martin

Phil Collins was at the height of his career when he recorded “Separate Lives” with Marilyn Martin, a relatively unknown artist at the time. Featured on the soundtrack for the film “White Nights,” this duet highlighted Collins’ emotional singing style alongside Martin’s powerful vocals, making it a touching portrayal of a relationship coming to an end. The song’s success helped Martin gain recognition, though her subsequent musical ventures never reached the same heights. Their voices blended seamlessly, creating a poignant and memorable ballad that resonated with many listeners.

“Walk This Way” – Run-DMC And Aerosmith

When Aerosmith and Run-DMC joined forces for “Walk This Way,” they bridged the gap between rock and hip-hop in a groundbreaking fashion. The collaboration rejuvenated Aerosmith’s career and legitimized rap music’s place in mainstream rock. The raw energy and bold exchange between Steven Tyler’s rock-infused vocals and Run-DMC’s rap verses created a dynamic track that appealed to fans across genres. The success of this daring musical experiment paved the way for future collaborations between artists from different musical backgrounds, making it a landmark moment in music history.

“Up Where We Belong” – Joe Cocker and Jennifer Warnes

Joe Cocker and Jennifer Warnes’ performance in “Up Where We Belong” perfectly captured the emotional intensity of the classic film “An Officer and a Gentleman.” Despite initial doubts about the song’s potential by the film’s producer, the duet soared to the top of the charts and earned an Academy Award for Best Original Song. The uplifting lyrics and powerful vocals delivered by Cocker and Warnes made this track an iconic ballad of the 1980s, celebrated for its inspiring message and stirring melody, securing its status as a timeless piece in film and music history.