Key Takeaways:
- SZA expresses confusion and disinterest in Nicki Minaj’s social media attacks, emphasizing their lack of connection and understanding of the motivation behind the diss.
- She actively avoids involvement in the Drake-Kendrick Lamar beef, seeing it as a matter between two grown men where her intervention is unnecessary.
- SZA is focusing on creating a high-quality new album, collaborating with Steve Lacy and having completed tracks like "Passenger Princess," "Burgers," and "Yearner," though a release date is far off.
- She is uninspired by the current music scene, feeling there is too much mediocrity.
Summary:
SZA is seeking to distance herself from two prominent narratives in the music industry. In a recent interview with GQ, she addressed Nicki Minaj’s unexpected social media attacks and her stance on the ongoing feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake. The singer conveyed bewilderment regarding Minaj’s online behavior, which included mocking her physical appearance, questioning her success, and accusing her of manipulating chart positions with the deluxe version of her album, "SOS."
SZA stated that she has no personal connection or history with Nicki Minaj, expressing that she doesn’t understand the reason behind the attacks. She finds it strange and believes it is not her place to address a narrative she has nothing to do with. SZA emphasized her confusion by stating, "I don’t know where it came from. That’s not even my place to correct a narrative that I don’t got shit to do with. It was a little strange. It was very like, ‘Why?’”
Regarding the long-standing beef between Kendrick Lamar and Drake, SZA is even more determined to stay out of it. She has collaborated with Drake in the past and recently toured with Lamar, even releasing a hit single with him titled "Luther." However, she views the conflict as a matter between two grown men and doesn’t feel the need to insert herself into it.
SZA explained that she holds both artists in high regard. She acknowledged her loyalty to TDE and love for Kendrick Lamar, who is her labelmate and like family. She also expressed her appreciation for Drake and their long-standing positive relationship. SZA added that the inclusion of her 2023 collaboration with Drake, "Rich Baby Daddy," in her tour setlist with Kendrick Lamar was not intended to send any messages.
Beyond these controversies, SZA shared details about her music. She revealed that she is currently dedicated to recording what she hopes will be "the best album I’ve ever made." She has been working closely with Steve Lacy on the project and has already finished tracks such as "Passenger Princess," "Burgers," and "Yearner." However, she indicated that a release date is still a long way off, potentially even beyond 2026.
SZA also expressed her lack of inspiration from the current musical landscape, noting the prevalence of mediocrity. She is a fan of artists like Chappell Roan, Doechii, and Lola Young, however, in general she just wants to focus on making great music. She stated, "I just want to make great things. And I feel like if I didn’t do something great, I can’t lie and pretend that it was great. But I think we have such a crazy onslaught of mediocrity that the bar is in hell."
