SZA Reflects on Chart Doubts and the Journey of Possibility
Trending on Billboard
In a surprising turn of events, SZA’s album SOS became a chart-topping sensation in 2022, even surpassing the popularity of Taylor Swift, as reported on the Billboard 200. This achievement was initially met with skepticism from her label, which informed her that such an outcome was unlikely given Swift’s entrenched dominance in the music industry.
In a recent interview with i-D, published on March 6, SZA reflected on her remarkable rise in star power as her sophomore album gained traction. “My label told me that it was likely that I wouldn’t beat Taylor Swift, and I should prepare for that,” she shared. “I was laughing by week three.”
The Grammy-winning artist, signed to Top Dawg Entertainment, recounted her astonishment at the album’s success, stating, “It was just like, ‘What is this? I never even imagined I could be on the radio.’”
Upon its release in December 2022, SOS debuted at the number one position on the album chart, while Swift’s Midnights, launched just two months earlier, occupied the second spot. The album maintained its top ranking for ten weeks before experiencing a shift, eventually reclaiming the number one position in 2024 for an additional three weeks.
During its reign, SZA took to X to clarify her admiration for Swift, amidst fan debates. “Uhh I feel silly that I even have to say this but I see supporters arguing and I hate that,” she wrote. “I don’t have beef w ANYONE especially not Taylor lmao I genuinely loved her album and the writing!”
In 2025, SZA expressed her desire to collaborate with Swift, sharing with Jennifer Hudson, “Every time she walks up to me or approaches me, I’m just like, ‘All right, this is happening, because that’s fully Taylor Swift.’ I would love to write with her and build some things together. I love her storytelling.”
Despite initial doubts, SZA has solidified her status as a formidable artist. In December 2024, she and Kendrick Lamar achieved a major hit with their collaboration “Luther,” which topped the Billboard Hot 100 for 13 weeks.
“I feel like anything is possible,” she remarked to i-D. “I feel like I’m adulting kind of hard right now, and I might be eating. I feel like I might be alright when it’s all said and done.”
See SZA on the cover of i-D below.
