Solána Imani Rowe, known professionally as SZA, is an American singer and songwriter born on November 8, 1989, in St. Louis, Missouri, and raised in Maplewood, New Jersey. Her father was an executive producer at CNN, and her mother was an executive at AT&T. Raised as an orthodox Muslim, her upbringing influenced her music and style. She initially pursued marine biology in college before her music career took off.
Career Beginnings
SZA's music career began to take shape after she met members of Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE) in 2011. She was the first female artist signed to the label in 2013. Before signing with TDE, she self-released two EPs, "See.SZA.Run" (2012) and "S" (2013), which garnered critical praise. Her third EP, "Z," was released in 2014 after signing with TDE and marked her debut on the Billboard charts.
Breakthrough with Ctrl
SZA's debut studio album, "Ctrl," was released on June 9, 2017, to widespread critical acclaim. The album, which explores themes of heartbreak, sexuality, and self-image, debuted at number three on the Billboard 200 chart. It features popular songs like "Love Galore," "The Weekend," and "Broken Clocks." "Ctrl" earned SZA five Grammy nominations and has been certified multi-platinum. The album holds the record for the longest run for a debut album by a Black female artist on the Billboard 200 chart.
Continued Success with SOS
After a five-year hiatus, SZA released her second studio album, "SOS," on December 9, 2022. The album was a massive commercial success, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200 and spending thirteen weeks at the top. "SOS" is a genre-blending album that includes elements of pop, R&B, soft-rock, and hip-hop, with guest appearances from artists like Travis Scott, Don Toliver, and Phoebe Bridgers. The album features hit singles such as "Kill Bill," "Snooze," and "Good Days." "SOS" earned SZA three Grammy Awards in 2024, including Best Progressive R&B Album.
Musical Style and Influence
SZA's musical style is often described as alternative R&B, blending elements of soul, hip-hop, and minimalist R&B. Her songwriting is known for its raw honesty and introspective lyrics, often touching on themes of self-doubt, love, and personal growth. She has cited artists like Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, and Frank Ocean as influences. SZA's unique sound and candid storytelling have had a significant impact on contemporary R&B music.
Accolades
Throughout her career, SZA has received numerous awards and nominations. She has won five Grammy Awards, including her first for the collaboration "Kiss Me More" with Doja Cat. Other accolades include a Brit Award, an American Music Award, and multiple Billboard Music Awards and BET Awards. Her collaboration with Kendrick Lamar on "All the Stars" for the "Black Panther" soundtrack earned them Golden Globe and Academy Award nominations.