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Rick Ross has risen to become one of hip-hop’s stars today. Over the years, the Miami-bred rapper, record executive, and business mogul has worked alongside some of music industry’s biggest artists. But he still has yet to cross off a bucket list collaboration — one that fans likely wouldn’t expect.

Rick Ross holding a mic and performing
Rick Ross | Astrida Valigorsky/Getty Images

Rick Ross has worked with music icons over the years

Rick Ross burst onto the scene in 2006 with his debut single “Hustlin’.” The song sold over 2 million copies and bolstered the success of his debut album Port of Miami.

In the time since then, Ross has collaborated with other rap stars on various songs. He’s worked with the likes of Jay-Z, Drake, and Lil Wayne, among others, as well as pop crossover stars like Nicki Minaj.

In 2009, Ross founded his record label, Maybach Music Group. The label has boasted artists including Meek Mill, Wale, and French Montana on its roster over the years. Maybach Music — along with Ross’ other business ventures — have earned him a sizable personal fortune as a result.

Rick Ross’ dream collaborator is Sade

Even though Ross has worked with some of the most well-known artists in the industry, he still hasn’t been able to fulfill his dream: recording a song with Sade.

Ross spoke about his desire to work with the iconic soul singer in a 2021 appearance on The Real. “I always have [worked with big artists], but what would mean the most to the Boss is Rick Ross and Sade,” he smiled.

In a 2021 GQ profile, he deemed Sade his “favorite R&B artists.” As someone who’s been beloved for nearly four decades, Sade has cemented her spot in music history. Ross believed it’s fitting, emphasizing her status as a “timeless” artist.

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Rick Ross is a longtime fan of Sade

Ross’ and Sade’s musical styles couldn’t be further from each other. Ross is known for explicit rap lyrics about money and women, while Sade is known for classic sultry songs that are made more for the bedroom than the club.

In a 2021 interview with music icon Questlove, Ross gushed about the British singer and everything she embodies. He explained that he wasn’t aware of just how unique she was as an artist until he saw her on stage.”

“Many years ago, I was introduced to Sade — and I realized how much I loved her over a decade ago when I found myself walking through Target and purchased a Sade DVD,” he recalled. “Just to watch her walk on the stage barefoot and singing in those white dresses, I was just blown away. She’s so amazing.”

Though Ross hasn’t worked with Sade directly, he has crossed paths with her musically. He was a featured guest on “Free Spirit,” a song from Drake’s Care Package compilation album; “Free Spirit” samples Sade’s 1984 hit “I Will Be Your Friend” from her band’s debut album Diamond Life.