SZA, whose real name is Solána Imani Rowe, is an American singer-songwriter and actress. She was born in St. Louis, Missouri in 1989 and grew up in New Jersey. SZA’s music is a unique blend of R&B, neo soul, and hip hop, featuring honest and vulnerable lyrics that touch on themes of self-discovery, relationships, and mental health.
SZA’s breakthrough came in 2017 with the release of her debut album “Ctrl,” which received critical acclaim and earned her several award nominations, including for Best Urban Contemporary Album at the Grammy Awards. The album features hits like “Love Galore” and “The Weekend,” showcasing SZA’s raw and emotional vocal style.
In addition to her music, SZA has also become a voice for mental health awareness, opening up about her own struggles with anxiety and depression. She has collaborated with brands like GAP and Fenty Beauty, and has been featured in films and TV shows like “Insecure” and “Grey’s Anatomy.”
SZA’s impact on music has been significant, with her honest and authentic approach resonating with fans around the world. She has received critical acclaim for her work, and has become a role model for young women in the music industry. SZA continues to produce music and advocate for mental health awareness, solidifying her place as one of the most influential artists of her generation.
10. “Blind”
“Blind” is a song by SZA, released in 2017 on her debut album “Ctrl.” The song features a slow and haunting melody, with SZA’s emotive vocals conveying a sense of pain and vulnerability. The lyrics describe a tumultuous relationship and the pain of feeling unseen and unappreciated, with the chorus featuring the repeated line “I’m so blind, blinded by the way you make me feel.” “Blind” has a raw and emotional feel, with a message that many listeners can relate to. The song has become a fan favorite and a standout track on SZA’s debut album.
9. “Love Galore”
“Love Galore” is a sultry and moody R&B song by American singer SZA, released in 2017. The song features a dreamy beat, layered harmonies, and SZA’s emotive and melodic vocals. The lyrics describe a toxic relationship in which the singer is unable to let go of her ex-lover, despite their destructive behavior. The song’s guest feature, Travis Scott, adds to the song’s atmosphere with his own verses, creating a haunting duet. The song’s music video features SZA in various scenes, alluding to the song’s themes of love and obsession. “Love Galore” was a commercial and critical success, cementing SZA’s status as a rising star in R&B music.
8. “Nobody Gets Me”
For some reason, “Nobody Gets Me” reminds us of a Mazzy Star song or an early 2000s heartbreak jam, and we mean that in the highest respect. It’s a unique track off SOS, and is essentially a break-up ballad encapsulating SZA’s feelings through the last moments of her relationship with her ex-fiancé – who was the only person at the time she felt truly understood her. You can really feel the pain in SZA’s vocals and in the gentle guitar strings that accompany her crooning. The storytelling in the number is also very well done, as SZA takes us through the history of her relationship; from a vacation trip gone wrong to a ballet excursion that ended in a proposal and subsequent touring that made SZA’s ex lose loyalty.
7. “Drew Barrymore”
“Drew Barrymore” is a song by SZA, released in 2017 on her debut album “Ctrl.” The song features a laid-back and mellow melody, with SZA’s soulful vocals conveying a sense of nostalgia and introspection. The lyrics describe feeling insecure and imperfect, with the chorus featuring the repeated line “Warm enough for ya outside baby, yeah.” “Drew Barrymore” has a relatable and authentic feel, with a message of self-acceptance and embracing imperfection. The song has become a fan favorite and a critical success, earning praise for its honesty and vulnerability.
6. “Shirt”
“Shirt” by SZA is a hauntingly beautiful and introspective track that delves into the complexities of relationships and self-worth. The song features SZA’s signature soulful vocals over a minimalist beat, with poignant lyrics that touch on themes of betrayal, forgiveness, and the struggle to maintain one’s own identity in the face of societal pressures. The chorus, with its repetition of the phrase “I gotta be me, myself, and I” serves as a powerful reminder to listeners to prioritize their own well-being and stay true to themselves, even in the face of adversity. Overall, “Shirt” is a deeply emotional and relatable song that showcases SZA’s incredible talent as a songwriter and performer.
5. “Good Days”
“Good Days” is a dreamy and introspective R&B song by American singer SZA, released in 2020. The song features a lush and atmospheric production, with ethereal harmonies, tinkling chimes, and a laid-back beat. SZA’s soft and breathy vocals glide over the track as she reflects on her personal growth and the struggles she’s faced. The song’s chorus is a hypnotic and uplifting mantra, encouraging listeners to find hope and happiness even in the darkest of times. “Good Days” was a chart-topping success and was praised for its introspective lyrics and unique sound, showcasing SZA’s versatility and artistry.
4. “Broken Clocks”
“Broken Clocks” is a moody and introspective R&B song by American singer SZA, released in 2017. The song features a mellow beat and atmospheric production, with haunting piano chords and a deep bassline. SZA’s soulful vocals express a sense of nostalgia and longing, as she reflects on past relationships and her own personal growth. The song’s lyrics are poetic and evocative, painting vivid pictures of fleeting moments and lost time. “Broken Clocks” was a critical and commercial success, showcasing SZA’s unique sound and songwriting ability, and earning her praise for her artistry and vulnerability.
3. “Kill Bill”
“Kill Bill” by SZA is a bold and unapologetic anthem that explores themes of empowerment and self-assertion. The song features a heavy, bass-heavy beat that perfectly complements SZA’s raw and unbridled vocals, as she delivers lyrics that touch on issues of toxic masculinity, self-worth, and the need for women to stand up for themselves. The chorus, with its infectious refrain of “I don’t wanna be nobody’s hero, I just wanna save myself,” serves as a rallying cry for listeners to prioritize their own well-being and take control of their own lives. Overall, “Kill Bill” is a powerful and cathartic song that showcases SZA’s incredible range and depth as an artist.
2. “20 Something”
“20 Something” is a song by SZA, released in 2017 on her debut album “Ctrl.” The song features a slow and melancholic melody, with SZA’s emotive vocals conveying a sense of uncertainty and introspection. The lyrics describe the challenges of navigating adulthood, with the chorus featuring the repeated line “How could it be 20 something all alone still not a thing in my name?” “20 Something” has a poignant and introspective feel, with a message of self-reflection and perseverance. The song has become a fan favorite and a standout track on SZA’s debut album.
1. “The Weekend”
“The Weekend” is a song by SZA, released in 2017 on her debut album “Ctrl.” The song features a smooth and sultry melody, with SZA’s soulful vocals conveying a sense of desire and temptation. The lyrics describe a complicated love triangle, with the chorus featuring the repeated line “My man is my man is your man, heard it’s her man too.” “The Weekend” has a seductive and alluring feel, with a message that is both honest and provocative. The song has become one of SZA’s most popular tracks and a standout on her debut album.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
