SZA is one of the most influential and acclaimed R&B artists of the 21st century.
Her debut album Ctrl was nominated for four Grammy Awards and ranked among the best albums of the decade by various publications.
She has also collaborated with some of the biggest names in music, such as Kendrick Lamar, Rihanna, Justin Timberlake, Lizzo, and Doja Cat.
But how much do you know about SZA? What does her stage name mean? What is her real name?
What are some of her hobbies and interests?
Here are 10 fun facts about SZA that will make you appreciate her even more.
1. Her stage name has a deep meaning
SZA’s stage name is pronounced as “sizza” and it is derived from the Supreme Alphabet, a system of interpreting text used by the hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan.
The acronym SZA stands for “sovereign,” “zig-zag,” and “Allah”, which represent her personal values and beliefs.
SZA has said that she was inspired by Wu-Tang Clan’s music and philosophy since she was a child.
She has also expressed admiration for their leader RZA, who has given her advice on producing music.
sza ??? pic.twitter.com/I0IrUvp53S
— 𝒌𝒊𝒂𝒓𝒂 (@kiarasimi) March 9, 2023
2. SZA was raised as an Orthodox Muslim
Born on November 8, 1989, in St. Louis, Missouri, SZA was raised in an Orthodox Muslim household.
Her father was a television producer and her mother worked as an executive at AT&T.
Growing up, SZA was exposed to a diverse range of cultural and religious experiences, which later influenced her music.
Female muslims who are also baddies on and off their hijabs. 🤯
Thread ✨
1. @sza pic.twitter.com/sKgoR1YHii
— Jamin🦅 (@jaminszn) February 3, 2023
3. She was a gymnast before her music career
Before pursuing a career in music, SZA was a dedicated gymnast. She trained for 13 years and even had aspirations of competing in the Olympics.
However, a knee injury eventually forced her to abandon this dream.
4. SZA studied marine biology
SZA’s interests extend far beyond music. She studied marine biology at Delaware State University before dropping out during her final semester.
Her passion for the environment and the ocean still remains, often inspiring her music and activism.
.@sza discusses her early love of dark poetry, dropping music for marine biology and the thrill of being a gymnast in our latest "The First Time." See the full video here: https://t.co/MOMwZdw3cC pic.twitter.com/BJhMF8sxY3
— Rolling Stone (@RollingStone) February 26, 2020
5. She started her music career late
Unlike many artists who start pursuing their dreams at a young age, SZA didn’t begin her music career until she was 23.
She initially started recording music to cope with the boredom of her retail job.
This led to the release of her debut EP, “See.SZA.Run,” in 2012.
6. Her debut album was critically acclaimed
SZA’s debut studio album, “Ctrl,” was released in 2017 and received widespread acclaim from critics.
The album features guest appearances from Travis Scott, James Fauntleroy, Isaiah Rashad, and more. “Ctrl” was nominated for several awards, including a Grammy for Best Urban Contemporary Album.
7. Collaborations with major artists
SZA’s unique style and talent have led to collaborations with some of the biggest names in the music industry.
She has worked with artists like Rihanna, Kendrick Lamar, and Lorde.
One of her most successful collaborations was with Lamar on the song “All The Stars,” which was part of the soundtrack for the Marvel film “Black Panther.” The song received multiple award nominations, including an Academy Award for Best Original Song and a Grammy for Best Song Written for Visual Media.
8. She is open about her struggles with mental health
SZA has been candid about her experiences with mental health, including anxiety and depression.
She often discusses these issues in her music and interviews, which has resonated with fans and helped to destigmatize mental health challenges in the entertainment industry.
9. SZA is an advocate for body positivity and self-love
Through her music and public appearances, SZA has been a powerful advocate for body positivity and self-love.
She often speaks about her own journey to accepting and loving herself, empowering others to embrace their individuality and unique beauty.
NOBODY GETS ME VIDEO OUT NOW 🤍🤍🤍🤍. #SOS https://t.co/eudNX2AE2H pic.twitter.com/7lYw84Gvjb
— SZA (@sza) December 9, 2022
10. Her influence in fashion and beauty
SZA’s distinct sense of style has made her a fashion icon, and she has been featured in major fashion publications like Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar.
In 2018, she collaborated with beauty brand Tarte Cosmetics on a limited-edition lipstick as part of their Rainforest of the Sea collection.
She continues to make waves in the fashion and beauty world, inspiring fans with her unique and bold choices.
Conclusion
SZA is a talented and versatile artist who has made a mark in the R&B scene with her unique and honest music.
She has also overcome many challenges and obstacles in her life, such as bullying, racism, eating disorders, and dropping out of college.
She has used her experiences as inspiration for her songs and as motivation to achieve her dreams.
SZA is more than just a singer-songwriter. She is also a role model, an activist, a fashion icon, and a trailblazer.
She defies genres and expectations with her music and style. She embraces her imperfections and celebrates her identity.
If you are a fan of SZA or want to learn more about her, you can follow her on social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube. You can also stream or buy her music on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Tidal, or SoundCloud.
You can also check out her official website for news, tour dates, merchandise, and more.
SZA is one of the most exciting and influential artists of our time.
She has proven that she is not afraid to be herself and to express herself through music.
She has shown us that we can all be beautiful, powerful, and successful in our own ways.
SZA FAQ
What does SZA mean?
SZA’s stage name is pronounced as “sizza” and it is derived from the Supreme Alphabet, a system of interpreting text used by the hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan.
The acronym SZA stands for “sovereign,” “zig-zag,” and “Allah”, which represent her personal values and beliefs.
What is SZA’s real name?
SZA’s real name is Solána Imani Rowe.
When was SZA born?
SZA was born on November 8th, 1990 in St. Louis, Missouri.
What is SZA’s zodiac sign?
SZA’s zodiac sign is Scorpio.
What is SZA’s religion?
SZA’s religion is Islam. She was raised as an orthodox Muslim by her father but stopped wearing hijabs after the September 11th attacks.
She still practices Islam but does not cover up anymore.
What are some of SZA’s hobbies and interests?
Some of SZA’s hobbies and interests include gymnastics, cheerleading, track, swimming, ice skating, reading, writing, drawing, cooking, gardening, and astrology.
Who are some of SZA’s musical influences?
Some of SZA’s musical influences include Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Lauryn Hill, Björk, Jamiroquai, Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Wu-Tang Clan, Stevie Nicks, and Frank Ocean.
I am a fun fact enthusiast and creator of Facts On Tap.
I love to share my knowledge and curiosity with readers and inspire them to learn something new every day.
When I’m not writing, I enjoy traveling, reading, and playing trivia games with my friends.