by Michael Bublé is renowned for his smooth vocals and classic takes on jazz and pop standards. While he often performs solo, Bublé has also enjoyed collaborating with many talented singers throughout his career. These duets allow him to showcase his musical chemistry with others while putting his own spin on well-known songs. Some of Bublé’s most memorable collaborations include performances and recordings with Barbra Streisand, CeeLo Green, Blake Shelton, Shania Twain, and Laura Pausini.
Barbra Streisand
One of Bublé’s most acclaimed collaborations was with legendary singer Barbra Streisand. Bublé has cited Streisand as a major influence and idol of his for many years. In 2016, he was invited to perform as Streisand’s special guest during her highly anticipated North American tour. During the concerts, Bublé and Streisand sang a soulful duet of the standard “It Had to Be You.” Their powerful vocal styles blended beautifully on the romantic tune.
The positive reception from their live duet led Bublé and Streisand to record “It Had to Be You” in the studio. It was released as a digital single in November 2016 to critical acclaim. Many reviewers commented on the special chemistry between the two singers and how their voices complemented each other perfectly on the classic song. Both Bublé and Streisand expressed their enjoyment in collaborating, with Bublé calling the experience “a dream come true.”
The recording gave Bublé’s career additional exposure to Streisand’s large fanbase. It also showed that even two legends in very different stages of their careers could find musical synergy. Bublé continues to cite Streisand as his all-time favorite artist to perform with. Their collaboration was a highlight for both singers and demonstrated Bublé’s ability to hold his own in a duet with one of the most acclaimed voices in music history.
CeeLo Green
In 2012, Bublé joined forces with soul singer CeeLo Green for a fun rendition of the standard “Feeling Good.” On the surface, Bublé and Green seem like an unlikely pairing given their different musical styles and eras. However, their energetic live performance at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas showed they had undeniable chemistry.
Bublé’s smooth vocals blended surprisingly well with Green’s grittier, raspier tone. Together they brought new life and attitude to the familiar Nina Simone song. Green added his signature sass and swagger, while Bublé held down the classic pop/jazz elements. Critics praised their lively stage presence and how they played off each other’s strong personalities. Fans were also delighted to see Bublé stepping outside his comfort zone with an artist as bold and unpredictable as Green.
The Vegas concert was a one-time collaboration, but proved Bublé is willing to experiment by joining forces with singers from other genres. Partnering with Green showed Bublé has range beyond traditional pop and jazz. It also highlighted his ability to match energy and command a stage alongside highly animated performers. While an unusual match, their “Feeling Good” duet demonstrated Bublé’s flexibility and talent for exciting collaborations.
Blake Shelton
In 2013, Bublé teamed up with country star Blake Shelton for a fun rendition of Bublé’s own hit song “Cry Me a River.” The pairing came about when both were serving as coaches on the popular singing competition show The Voice. Eager to entertain viewers, Bublé and Shelton decided to perform a playful duet of the jazz standard during the live finals.
Shelton added his signature country twang and charm to the Michael Bublé song. Meanwhile, Bublé held down the classic elements but also let loose more than usual. The result was a lively, upbeat interpretation that blended jazz, pop, and country styles seamlessly. Both artists seemed to relish the chance to show off their comedic sides through exaggerated facial expressions and banter between lyrics.
Audiences and critics loved seeing this unexpected mashup of genres from two major talents. It highlighted Bublé and Shelton’s abilities to find musical common ground despite their different backgrounds. The duet also demonstrated Bublé’s willingness to have fun and not take himself too seriously. His relaxed, playful energy with Shelton made for one of the most entertaining and memorable performances of The Voice season. Their chemistry proved collaborations don’t need to be limited by genre.
Shania Twain
In 2011, Bublé had the honor of performing with the “Queen of Country” herself, Shania Twain. At a concert at Rogers Centre in Toronto, Bublé joined Twain on stage for her signature hit “You’re Still the One.” Playing to a massive hometown crowd, the pressure was on but both delivered incredible vocals.
Bublé handled the more jazz and pop elements while Twain took the lead on her country smash. However, they also blended their styles seamlessly at times. Their powerful yet emotive delivery of the romantic lyrics had the massive audience on their feet. It showed two superstars at the top of their game, fully comfortable in a high-profile duet.
After the concert, Bublé spoke of his admiration for Twain. He called the experience of singing with his fellow Canadian “one of the highlights” of his career. Twain also praised Bublé for rising to the occasion on her signature song. Their duet was a perfect meeting of country and crossover pop styles. It reminded audiences that great collaborations can occur when artists respect each other and find the right material to showcase their talents.
Laura Pausini
In 2017, Bublé joined forces with Italian pop diva Laura Pausini for a special bilingual version of his hit “Never Gonna Dance Again.” Recorded for Bublé’s album Nobody But Me, the duet features him singing in English and Pausini responding in Italian. Their natural chemistry was on full display through the passionate lyrics about heartbreak and regret.
Bublé’s smooth delivery was a perfect complement to Pausini’s powerhouse vocals. She brought new fire and emotion to the familiar song in her native tongue. The result was a cross-cultural interpretation that appealed to Bublé and Pausini’s global fanbases. It highlighted how great music can transcend language barriers.
The recording further cemented Bublé as an artist willing to take creative risks through collaboration. Partnering with Pausini showed his desire to reach new international audiences. It also demonstrated how pairing two strong soloists on the right material results in an unforgettable duet. “Never Gonna Dance Again” stands out as one of Bublé’s most unique collaborations in his catalog.
Continued Experimentation
Throughout his career, Michael Bublé has proven himself a talented collaborator willing to experiment with singers from various genres and eras. Whether putting his spin on classics with legends like Barbra Streisand or finding fresh chemistry with contemporary talents, Bublé consistently delivers memorable duets. He understands that collaboration allows artists to reach new heights and bring fresh perspectives to familiar songs.
Bublé also isn’t afraid to take creative risks by pairing with unexpected partners like CeeLo Green. And he enjoys putting his own spin on the material of his collaborators, as shown through covers with Blake Shelton and Shania Twain. Above all, Bublé’s duets demonstrate his abilities to blend styles seamlessly and match energies with a wide range of vocalists. As his career continues, fans look forward to seeing what new and exciting collaborations Bublé has in store.
