I love a good crossover episode. They're really fun when they're unexpected, and the best when they challenge any expectations fans may have had. Just like a serpent shedding its skin, Megan Thee Stallion remixed her single, "Cobra," with the help of Canadian metal band Spiritbox. The line between rock and rap is already blurred, especially when you get into heavier music like Spiritbox's discography. Therefore, it should be less shocking when artists of the two genres come together to make real magic – yet we succumb to the witches' and wizards' spells every time, left in awe of what is possible when we release self-imposed sonic limitations.

Rightfully so, though, because the "Cobra" remix is one of the best releases of the year, and we're at the very end of 2023. Megan Thee Stallion knew what she was doing when she chose this single to do some genre-bending work. The lyrics are so vulnerable; she talks about missing her parents, feeling down, questioning reality after a painful near-death experience, and the looming threat of people constantly praying on her downfall, opening up about serious topics at the risk of being too emotionally intimate with her audience after a tumultuous time in her personal life.

These themes are quintessential in rock music, especially heavy metal. You'd be surprised (or maybe you wouldn't be) by what lurks in an artist's personal music library, regardless of what audiences are used to them making. It's time that we, as a global audience, recognize that the genre barriers that used to confine us no longer have a place in modern music. The "Cobra" remix is a beautiful new beginning for what could be, and Megan Thee Stallion is the perfect person to lead the way.

Musically, Spiritbox's heavy metal expertise adds a multi-layered, wide sound that could wow a stadium crowd. The full, distorted guitars suggest that both collaborators had a clear vision, knowing exactly what had to be done to execute it. Layering melodic and unclean vocals on top of Stallion's was the best possible finishing touch, the cherry on top of their curated magic. We can only hope that more artists are inspired by the work that was done on this "Cobra" remix, because the world would be a much better place with more genre-defying music in it.

Keep up with Megan Thee Stallion here, and Spiritbox here.