SZA

Solána Imani Rowe, known professionally as SZA, is a name that has become synonymous with a unique blend of R&B, soul, and hip-hop. Born on November 8, 1989, in St. Louis, Missouri, she was raised in Maplewood, New Jersey, in a Muslim household. Her early life was steeped in a diverse range of musical influences, from jazz to classic soul, which she absorbed from her parents. Her father was an executive producer at CNN, while her mother was an executive at AT&T. This early exposure to a variety of disciplines, including gymnastics in which she excelled as a teenager, laid the foundation for her eclectic artistry.

SZA's initial foray into the music industry was not as a singer but as a songwriter. She penned songs for artists like Beyoncé and Rihanna, notably contributing to "Feeling Myself" and "Consideration," respectively. However, her own voice couldn't be contained for long. In 2012, she released her debut EP, "See.SZA.Run," followed by "S" in 2013 and "Z" in 2014. These early works were a blend of minimalist R&B and ethereal sounds, a departure from the mainstream but a hit among indie circles.

Her breakthrough came with her debut studio album, "Ctrl," released in 2017. The album was a commercial and critical success, peaking at number three on the US Billboard 200 and eventually going Platinum. Songs like "Love Galore" featuring Travis Scott and "The Weekend" became anthems of relationships in the modern age, dissecting love, lust, and loneliness with poetic finesse. The album earned her several Grammy nominations, including Best Urban Contemporary Album.

SZA's chart history is impressive, with two No. 1 hits and nine Top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, according to Billboard. Her collaborations have also been noteworthy, from "Kiss Me More" with Doja Cat to her first-ever collaboration with Drake titled "Slime You Out." Her influence extends beyond music; she's been a finalist for multiple Billboard Music Awards and has been involved in philanthropic endeavors, including environmental conservation efforts.

Her latest work, as of 2023, includes the singles "Snooze" and "Kill Bill," both of which have charted impressively. "Kill Bill" even reached the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100. These new releases indicate a shift towards a more experimental sound, incorporating elements of electronic music and even rock influences.

SZA's journey is not without its challenges. She has been open about her struggles with anxiety and the pressures of fame. She postponed her Toronto SOS Tour date due to illness, as reported by Variety. Yet, her resilience shines through, as she continues to unveil more tour dates in North America and Europe, much to the delight of her fans.