ArtistPage
SZA
SZA, born Solána Imani Rowe on November 8, 1990, in St. Louis, Missouri, is a renowned American singer and songwriter best known for her unique blend of R&B, hip hop, and neo-soul. Raised in Maplewood, New Jersey, she began to explore her musical talents in her twenties, inspired by a diverse range of artists including jazz and alternative rock musicians. SZA's early work caught the attention of Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE), an independent music label known for its roster of influential hip-hop artists. SZA debuted with her self-released EPs, *See.SZA.Run* in 2012 and *S* in 2013, receiving positive critical attention. In 2014, she released her third EP, *Z*, her first project with TDE, which further established her presence in the music industry. Her collaboration with labelmate Kendrick Lamar and others helped define her burgeoning style characterized by ethereal vocals and introspective lyrics. In 2017, SZA released her highly acclaimed debut studio album, *Ctrl*, which was both a commercial success and a critical darling. Praised for its raw honesty and vulnerability, *Ctrl* earned her multiple Grammy nominations and solidified her place in contemporary R&B music. Tracks like "Love Galore," "The Weekend," and "Drew Barrymore" showcased her ability to articulate complex emotional narratives, resonating with a wide audience. Following the success of *Ctrl*, SZA continued to collaborate with high-profile artists, contributing to tracks like "All the Stars" with Kendrick Lamar from the soundtrack for the hit film *Black Panther*, which earned her further Grammy and Academy Award nominations, and "Kiss Me More" with Doja Cat, which became a major hit. In December 2021, SZA released another hit single, "I Hate U," which continued to demonstrate her talent for melding introspective lyrics with catchy, innovative melodies. She remains one of the most influential voices in contemporary music, known for pushing the boundaries of R&B and continually evolving her sound. As of 2023, SZA continues to be a prominent figure in the music world, often praised for her artistic vision and emotional depth. Her work not only highlights her musical versatility and skill but also addresses themes of self-identity, love, and womanhood, making her an influential voice for a new generation of listeners.