6 Times Rock Stars Collaborated with Pop Culture and Failed

​In the world of music, collaborations between classic rock stars and pop icons often generate excitement. However, not all partnerships yield successful results. Here are six instances where such collaborations fell short.​

Cher and Gregg Allman – Two the Hard Way (1977)

In 1975, Cher married Gregg Allman of The Allman Brothers Band. Two years later, they released an album together under the name Allman and Woman, titled Two the Hard Way. The album attempted to blend Cher’s pop sensibilities with Allman’s Southern rock roots.​

Unfortunately, critics panned the album, citing a lack of cohesion between their styles. Rolling Stone described it as “the bottom of the barrel after a long fall for Gregg, and more of the same for Cher.” The accompanying tour was also unsuccessful, leading to financial losses and personal strain between the couple. ​

Ozzy Osbourne and Miss Piggy – “Born to Be Wild” (1994)

In 1994, Ozzy Osbourne teamed up with Miss Piggy for a rendition of Steppenwolf’s “Born to Be Wild” on the Muppets album Kermit Unpigged. This collaboration aimed to merge Osbourne’s heavy metal persona with the playful character of Miss Piggy.

The result was a peculiar version that left fans bewildered. Osbourne later reflected on the experience, stating, “I only do these things for a goof. I mean, believe me: I’m not a big Miss F****** Piggy fan!” ​

Bruce Dickinson and Mr. Bean – “Elected” (1992)

In 1992, Iron Maiden’s lead singer, Bruce Dickinson, collaborated with comedian Rowan Atkinson’s character, Mr. Bean, to cover Alice Cooper’s “Elected.” The track was part of a charity effort for Comic Relief, combining Dickinson’s powerful vocals with Mr. Bean’s comedic interjections.​

While intended for a good cause, the song’s humorous approach did not resonate with all audiences. Some fans found the blend of serious rock vocals and slapstick comedy to be mismatched, leading to mixed reviews. ​

Lemmy Kilmister and The Nolans – “Don’t Do That” (1981)

In 1981, Motörhead’s frontman Lemmy Kilmister collaborated with pop group The Nolans on the track “Don’t Do That.” This unlikely pairing featured Lemmy’s gritty rock style alongside The Nolans’ polished pop vocals.

Despite the artists’ mutual respect, the song failed to make a significant impact. Fans of both genres found the combination perplexing, and the track remains a curious footnote in both artists’ discographies.

The Sex Pistols and Ronnie Biggs – “No One Is Innocent” (1978)

After Johnny Rotten’s departure in 1978, The Sex Pistols collaborated with notorious criminal Ronnie Biggs on the song “No One Is Innocent.” Recorded in Brazil, the track featured Biggs on vocals, attempting a punk style.​

The collaboration was controversial, given Biggs’ criminal background, and the song received criticism for its provocative nature. Many fans viewed it as a publicity stunt that did little to enhance the band’s musical legacy.

Ann and Nancy Wilson with Lisa Simpson – “Sisters Are Doin’ It for Themselves” (1998)

In 1998, Heart’s Ann and Nancy Wilson joined the fictional character Lisa Simpson for a cover of “Sisters Are Doin’ It for Themselves” on The Simpsons‘ album The Yellow Album. The original song, known for its empowering message, was reimagined with the inclusion of the animated character.

The result was an awkward blend of real-life musicianship and cartoon vocals. Fans found the collaboration lacking the energy and authenticity of the original, leading to its lukewarm reception.