Caption: SZA at the New York Fashion Week for Rihanna’s Fenty Puma Autumn/Winter’16 collection
SZA, the incredibly talented American singer and songwriter, has taken the music industry by storm. With the release of her debut studio album, Ctrl, in 2017, she achieved global recognition and garnered nine Grammy nominations, a Golden Globe nomination, and an Academy Award nomination. Let's delve into the fascinating details of her life and career.
A Journey of Self-Discovery
SZA, born Solána Imani Rowe, has always been a unique individual. Her stage name is a combination of the Supreme Alphabet and her name's initials, SZA, which stands for Savior, Zig-Zag, Allah. However, she pronounces it as "Sizza." Growing up, she was known as Lana to her family members, and her friends affectionately call her "Sosa."
Caption: SZA with Kendrick Lamar on the red carpet for the 58th Grammy Awards in February 2016
Rising to Fame
SZA was born on November 8, 1990, in St. Louis, Missouri, United States. Currently residing in New York City, she often visits her hometown, Maplewood, New Jersey, to unwind and rest. Education-wise, SZA attended a regular high school in her hometown before attending a Muslim Prep School after school hours. She later studied liberal arts subjects at Essex County College.
Her musical journey began with self-released mixtapes titled SZA.Run and S, which caught the attention of Top Dawg Entertainment, leading to a record deal. Her debut album, Ctrl, reached the third spot on the Billboard 200 chart and topped the R&B genre chart. SZA's unique style and captivating voice have made her a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
Personal Life and Influences
SZA comes from a talented family. Her father is an executive producer at CNN, while her mother holds a corporate executive position at AT&T. She has an older half-sister named Tiffany Daniels and an older brother known as Daniel or Manhattan, who is a rapper.
In terms of relationships, SZA has had her fair share of challenges. She struggled with self-love and confidence, which affected her past relationships. In a tragic turn of events, she lost three of her ex-boyfriends to untimely deaths. These experiences have shaped her personal life throughout her twenties.
SZA's Unique Style and Talents
SZA's music falls into the genres of Alternative R&B, Neo Soul, and PBR&B. Her distinctive voice and captivating lyrics have earned her a dedicated fan base. Alongside her singing talent, she is known for her voluptuous figure, prominent freckles, and thick, voluminous long curly hair. SZA's style is a blend of masculine clothes with feminine hair and makeup, inspired by Miranda from Sex and the City and the attire in Wes Anderson's movie, Moonrise Kingdom.
A Trailblazer in the Music Scene
SZA's accomplishments extend beyond her music. She has been part of several brand endorsements, including GAP, Ivy Park, Ford Focus, and SKIMS. Her influence goes beyond the stage, as she has been recognized for her fashion choices and her role as a brand ambassador. Additionally, she draws inspiration from poets such as Emily Dickinson and Shel Silverstein, making her songwriting unique and poetic.
SZA's debut album Ctrl, her distinct style, and her remarkable journey of self-discovery have solidified her position as one of the most talented and influential artists in the music industry. With her magnetic presence and undeniable talent, SZA continues to push boundaries and inspire others.
Source: Harper’s Bazaar, Mass Appeal, Nylon, OysterMag.com, W Magazine, UptownMagazine.com, Red Bull, Mass Appeal.
