I noticed I haven’t walked through country music chart land in some time, so I decided to take a stroll this week – and I discovered the No. 1 song on Billboard’s Country chart is the same one that has been there for several weeks: “Meant to Be” by Bebe Rexha and Florida Georgia Line.

I have to admit, I kind of like this song, mostly because Bebe has a tremendous voice, although country music doesn’t really seem to be her thing.

In searching out some of her solo hits, I saw she is definitely a pop singer who has made a home on top of the country charts for now, thanks to joining forces with FGL. I will admit, I hear a bit of Taylor Swift in her voice – but “country,” she ain’t.

Many other pop artists have made similar jumps to the country ranks thanks to collaborations with various country superstars. The first who comes to mind is Julio Iglesias, a giant in the world of Latin pop music, who teamed with Willie Nelson in 1984 and blew up the charts – proving fancy-dancy pop singers and outlaw country stars can indeed make great music together.

In 1993 Johnny Cash teamed with U2 on a song called “Wanderer.” Toby Keith and Sting also recorded a duet, as did Sugarland and Bon Jovi. Reba even recorded a duet album with various artists.

Perhaps my favorite collaboration comes from Chris Stapleton and Justin Timberlake, who blew the crowd away at the 2015 CMA Awards with their rendition of “Tennessee Whiskey.” Every time I listen to it, it’s like the first time, and it is just that good.

One of the most unusual collaborations of recent memory is that of Alison Krauss and legendary rocker Robert Plant, who together recorded the Grammy-winning album Raising Sand. This collection was a game-changer when it came to bringing two completely different vocal styles from two completely different genres together to create something unique in its own right.

Musical collaborations will always be around, and it will be interesting to see what unusual blends come to the charts in the future. But one thing is for sure: These pop-country partnerships give all music fans a unique change of pace, and a change of pace is good to have from time to time.

Bluegrass Johnson comes from a long line of country music performers and enjoys a passion for the rhythm and melody. From the hills of Kentucky, he will offer his opinions on a variety of country music every other week. Readers with questions or comments may write to Johnson in care of this publication.