Top 5 Michael Jackson Collaborations You Probably Never Heard Of


Rare musical gems that show the King of Pop’s true versatility

When most people think of Michael Jackson’s collaborations, names like Quincy Jones, Paul McCartney, and Diana Ross come to mind. But beyond the headlines and chart-topping hits, Michael also worked with a number of underrated or lesser-known artists in ways that flew under the mainstream radar. These hidden gems reveal a more experimental, generous, and creatively fearless side of the King of Pop.

Here are the top 5 Michael Jackson collaborations you didn’t know about, with number one offering a surprising team-up that blends two of music’s greatest voices.

#5 – “The Dude” (1981) – Quincy Jones feat. Michael Jackson
While Quincy Jones is most famously tied to Michael’s Thriller and Off the Wall albums, many forget that Michael also lent his vocals to Quincy’s The Dude album. On this 1981 release, Michael’s smooth voice lights up a track built on a funky disco groove. Though he wasn’t the main artist, his contribution added star power and soul. The Dude was a commercial and critical success, racking up 12 Grammy nominations and winning three. Interestingly, this project later became the subject of legal tensions, as Quincy claimed posthumous remixes of Michael’s songs were used to avoid properly crediting and compensating him.

#4 – “So Shy” (1982) – Bill Wolfer feat. Michael Jackson (Background Vocals)
This next gem is an overlooked synth-pop ballad called “So Shy,” released in 1982. Michael only contributed background vocals, but his distinctive voice added emotional depth and polish to the track. Bill Wolfer, a highly respected musician who worked with Stevie Wonder and other greats, also played keyboards on Michael’s legendary hit “Billie Jean.” “So Shy” may be subtle, but it’s a shining example of how even Michael’s background work could elevate a song.

#3 – “Save Me” (1980) – Dave Mason feat. Michael Jackson
At number three is Save Me, a heartfelt track by British singer-songwriter Dave Mason. Released in 1980, the song features Michael adding his unmistakable yells, ad-libs, and harmonies—enhancing the emotional weight of the lyrics. While he doesn’t dominate the song, Michael’s presence is unmistakable and elevates the track into something grander. It’s a reminder that he could enhance a song without ever overshadowing the lead artist.

#2 – “We Be Ballin’” (1998) – Ice Cube feat. Michael Jackson (Remix)
Yes, you read that right—Michael Jackson collaborated with Ice Cube. This remix from 1998 proves that MJ had an ear for hip-hop. On We Be Ballin’, Michael sings the hook, fusing hip-hop grit with pop brilliance. The line “this is ex-L…” showcases how effortlessly Michael could transition into new musical landscapes. His contribution to this track challenges the misconception that he wasn’t tuned into hip-hop culture. Fun side note: Chris Tucker once shared how Michael used to hum 50 Cent’s “In Da Club” just to mess with him.

#1 – “There Must Be More to Life Than This” (1985) – Freddie Mercury & Michael Jackson
The top spot goes to a breathtaking collaboration between two of the most iconic voices in music history: Michael Jackson and Queen frontman Freddie Mercury. Recorded in 1985, There Must Be More to Life Than This is a deeply moving ballad that addresses themes of peace, unity, and human struggle. The song’s message remains heartbreakingly relevant even today, touching on hope amidst social and political chaos. Both singers deliver a performance full of emotion, longing, and authenticity. It’s not just a song—it’s a plea for a better world, and easily one of the most powerful collaborations of Michael’s career.

The Legacy of Hidden Collaborations
Each of these five tracks showcases a different side of Michael Jackson—whether as a background vocalist, a hook genius, or a soulful duet partner. They reveal a man who loved music in all its forms and who was always eager to lend his talent to help shape a song, whether or not his name ended up in the spotlight.

These underrated collaborations deserve more recognition not just for the music itself, but for the light they shed on Jackson’s musical generosity and range. From disco grooves to introspective ballads, and even hip-hop hooks, Michael’s influence was limitless.

Which of these tracks surprised you the most? Let us know in the comments—and don’t forget to revisit these hidden gems for a deeper appreciation of the King of Pop’s unmatched artistry.