SZA a Grammy-winning R&B artist is widely known for her unique voice, lyrical depth, and her eclectic style that combines various influences in her music and her performances. SZA is gaining increased public view from recent projects and collaborations as well as a future stadium tour.
SZA's Super Bowl LIX Halftime Performance
SZA is set to join Kendrick Lamar during the halftime show of Super Bowl LIX. The joint performance on February 9 at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans was confirmed by a trailer from Apple Music. This special opportunity shows off what is known to be some dynamic on stage energy that will be combined into one special showing.
Collaboration With Kendrick Lamar
SZA and Lamar’s collaboration stems from being previous Top Dawg Entertainment label mates. They worked together on multiple projects that includes SZA being on Lamar's recent album, “GNX” where she was featured on "Gloria" and "Luther". In the song "Luther" they featured a sample of Luther Vandross, showcasing the many sides to their creativity.
SZA's Growing Career
SZA has gained significant achievements since her introduction into music including Grammy wins, popular releases, film projects along with high level nominations. The range in her talents showcases that the artist has much to offer.
Upcoming Grammys and Tour
SZA received two Grammy nominations for her song "Saturn," in both the Best R&B Performance and Best R&B Song categories this year. She also will take part in the Grand National Tour alongside Lamar, which will encompass 19 cities starting in April and concluding in June. Her continued presence in music showcases how her fanbase continues to build.
The Impact of the Halftime Show
This pairing of Lamar and SZA in this years Super Bowl show is highly anticipated which should create much positive response. As a high level event both will be on stage showing unique art forms in their approach to all types of music. This special presentation has become something to look forward too every year for sports fans, and this dynamic pairing has an air of innovation that others in music may now use as an approach.
Creative Control and Production
With Roc Nation and Emmy-winning producer Jesse Collins leading the production and Lamar’s creative team, pgLang, providing creative direction, there is an air of expectation that this performance will make a strong impact. The production and the unique artistic vision combined from various creative powerhouses is highly anticipated by a very large group of viewers.
A Look Back at Previous Collaberations
This has not been the first time the two have worked together they have collaborated on numerous songs with a mix of different genres which include: All the Stars” (Oscar/Grammy/Golden Globe-Nominated), “Doves In The Wind”, “30 for 30,” “Luther,” “Gloria” and recently her inclusion on his new album called “GNX”. Their unique skill sets come together to be both cohesive and uniquely complimentary.
Other Aspects of SZA
SZA has other ongoing endeavors in her career with a lead role in a recent film as well as her popular singles gaining new life with views and air play. She has successfully made a space that goes beyond a typical genre artist by finding success in film too.
Beyond Music
SZA’s foray into acting in "One of Them Days" alongside Keke Palmer is a testament to her ever-growing career and versatility as a creative. This unique take shows off her skills outside the music space and helps build awareness in different areas of media consumption that include all types of artistic expression.
Critiques and Responses to the Announcement
Despite the excitement some reactions had others suggesting why native New Orleans artist Lil Wayne was not considered for the headlining slot. That opinion also has made conversation regarding what should be seen as the type of headliner given a spot such as this and not always going with major acts.
Artists Response
Artist’s in the community reacted both strongly to not seeing an local person chosen for such an opportunity and Lil Wayne, a popular choice, also responded with his thoughts which did not place blame on other artists just for not being included.
Key Takeaways
- SZA will be performing alongside Kendrick Lamar for Super Bowl LIX's halftime show.
- Both artists have previous hit songs they have done together along with being on the same record label before.
- The Super Bowl performance highlights the talent of each artist while they move throughout all forms of media.
- SZA's collaboration with Lamar further solidifies her presence in popular culture.
- The special has garnered unique reactions by fans as well as artists regarding who was chosen as headliners this year.