Why Zara Larsson Champions Female Collaboration in Pop

PARIS, FRANCE - FEBRUARY 24: Zara Larsson performs onstage during her 'Venus' Tour at Le Trianon on February 24, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Kristy Sparow/Getty Images)

Zara Larsson has always felt a strong connection to working with other women in the pop music industry, despite its competitive nature. The Swedish pop star has collaborated with several female artists, including PinkPantheress and Muni Long, showcasing her affinity for teamwork among women in the field. Her recent projects highlight this trend, and she recently shared her thoughts on why these collaborations feel so natural to her.

Larsson spoke about her experiences during the red carpet event of the Z100 Jingle Ball at Madison Square Garden in New York on December 12. She emphasized that while the music industry can be highly competitive, there is also a significant amount of support and warmth among female artists. She said:

"It's so important. I really feel like there's this warmth amongst the girls, at least what I've experienced. It's so exciting to have been working with amazing pop girls, and I look forward to doing more of that."

Her latest collaboration with PinkPantheress was particularly notable. The British singer-songwriter released a remix version of her single "Stateside" featuring Zara Larsson in October. The track became a standout in PinkPantheress’s "Fancy Some More?" project, which includes four remixes featuring other artists such as Kylie Minogue, Bladee, and Groove Armada.

Larsson shared her experience working with PinkPantheress in an interview with People. She described the British artist as "so cute and very, very, very talented," adding that she appreciates how PinkPantheress is unapologetically herself. She also praised her intelligence and humor, saying, "She's also very smart and funny."

The collaboration came about when Larsson was on a "love spree" and reached out to several female pop stars. PinkPantheress was one of them, and after a two-day delay, she responded with a suggestion to work together. Larsson recalled her reaction:

"I was like, 'Duh, I would love that.' And she was like, 'I'm doing this remix album. Are you down to do a song?' I was like, 'Yes.'"

The "Stateside" remix was completed just four days before its release, and it was recorded during the shows Larsson was opening for Tate McRae’s Miss Possessive tour. This collaboration marked another milestone in her career, as she also received her first Grammy nomination for "Midnight Sun" for the 2026 Grammys.

In addition to her performances with PinkPantheress, Larsson has also worked with Muni Long on the "Midnight Sun" remix. She recently joined Tate McRae’s tour and brought along Alex Warren as a "fan" to join her onstage for her "Lush Life" performance.

Larsson’s presence at the iHeartRadio Jingle Ball at the Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia on December 15 further solidified her status as a top performer. Other acts at the event included AJR, Lauren, MONSTA X, Raven Lenae, and BigXthaPlug.

Her continued success and willingness to collaborate with other female artists highlight her commitment to fostering a supportive and creative environment in the music industry. As she continues to work with some of the most talented voices in pop, it’s clear that her passion for these collaborations will remain a central part of her journey.