Solána Imani Rowe, famously known by her stage name SZA, has dominated the R&B music scene with soul-stirring songs, genre-defying albums, and collaborations with some of the biggest stars. Initially starting as an underdog, SZA has skyrocketed to fame, amassing critical acclaim, a loyal fan base, and a SZA net worth 2024 of $6 million. The Grammy-winning artist’s combination of creativity and resilience exemplifies modern stardom.
This in-depth biography explores the life, career, accomplishments, and the financial milestones of this ground-breaking musician.
Early Life and Family
Born on November 8, 1989, in St. Louis, Missouri, Solána Imani Rowe grew up in Maplewood, New Jersey. Her father, Abdul Mubarak-Rowe, worked as an executive producer at CNN, while her mother, Audrey Rowe, held an executive position at AT&T. Raised in a household with strong religious and cultural diversity, SZA navigated dual influences from her Christian mother and Muslim father, shaping her outlook on life and the music she later created.
SZA once wore the hijab full-time while attending a Muslim prep school. However, the hate and bullying following the September 11 attacks led her to abandon this practice to blend in with peers at Columbia High School. Despite the challenges, she excelled in cheerleading and gymnastics during her teenage years.
Education
After graduating high school in 2008, SZA briefly attended Delaware State University to pursue marine biology. However, her academic interests waned as the desire to follow her creative passions became evident. SZA eventually dropped out in her final semester, juggling multiple jobs as a bartender and dancer, before making the leap into the music world.
Career Highlights
The Early Days
SZA’s career officially began in 2011. She worked with the clothing brand 10Deep and networked at events, including a serendipitous meeting with Terrence “Punch” Henderson, co-president of Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE). By 2012, SZA had independently released her first EP, See.SZA.Run, which was followed by the critically acclaimed EP S in 2013. These projects highlighted her dreamy, atmospheric style and paved the way for her signing with TDE, making her the label’s first female signee.
The Breakthrough – Ctrl
SZA released her debut studio album Ctrl in 2017, marking a monumental moment in her career. Featuring singles like “Love Galore” and “The Weekend,” the album debuted at number three on the Billboard 200 chart and went triple platinum. Her emotionally charged lyrics, exploring themes like insecurity and romantic entanglements, immediately struck a chord with fans.
Though SZA earned a shocking five Grammy nominations in 2018 without winning any, Ctrl solidified her as an R&B powerhouse and contributed significantly to SZA net worth 2024, culminating in commercial and critical triumph.
Record-Breaking Success – SOS
Released in 2022, SOS became an even bigger milestone. Spending a phenomenal 10 weeks atop the Billboard 200, this album broke records last set by iconic R&B artists like Whitney Houston. Tracks like “Kill Bill,” “Nobody Gets Me,” and “Good Days” became immediate hits, showcasing her versatility across genres. “Kill Bill,” in particular, gained remarkable success as her first Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 single.
By 2024, she released a follow-up deluxe reissue of SOS, titled Lana, officially solidifying her place in music history. This blockbuster album has generated substantial income, further augmenting SZA net worth 2024.
Collaborations and Tours
SZA has collaborated with a variety of artists, such as Kendrick Lamar, Doja Cat, Travis Scott, Rihanna, and Drake. Her duet “Kiss Me More” with Doja Cat not only won a Grammy but also became a staple of summer playlists worldwide.
She embarked on two headline tours—the Ctrl Tour and SOS Tour—while supporting multiple high-profile acts like Jhené Aiko and Bryson Tiller. The SOS Tour, running into 2024, consisted of 63 shows globally, elevating her status as a performer and adding significantly to SZA net worth 2024.
Net Worth and Financial Highlights
SZA’s shrewd career moves and creative projects have resulted in a net worth of $6 million as of 2024. Her wealth stems from concert earnings, album sales, streaming revenue, and various endorsements, including her collaboration with Crocs, creating custom lines emphasizing comfort and style.
Key Financial Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $6 Million |
| Height | 5 ft 4 in (1.63 meters) |
| Major Earnings | SOS, Ctrl, and Touring Revenue |
| Best Known Songs | “Kill Bill,” “Snooze,” “Good Days,” and “Love Galore” |
| Award Wins | 4 Grammy Awards |
| Endorsements | Crocs Collaboration |
| Most Popular Album | SOS – 22 weeks at No. 1 |
Awards and Recognition
SZA has won four Grammy Awards out of 24 nominations, including Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for her collaboration with Doja Cat on “Kiss Me More.” Her most recent wins in 2024 include Best Progressive R&B Album (SOS), showcasing her unmatched artistry. Other accolades include an American Music Award, Billboard Women in Music Woman of the Year Award (2022), and a place in Rolling Stone’s 200 Greatest Singers of All Time.
Personal Life and Challenges
SZA has not been shy about discussing her struggles with anxiety and self-esteem throughout her life and career. She also faced significant challenges when her vocal cords swelled in 2018, temporarily pulling out of a TDE tour. However, she overcame these hurdles, demonstrating emotional strength and dedication to her craft.
Her ability to channel personal adversity into her art has made her relatable to fans, propelling both her music’s success and SZA net worth 2024.
Future Prospects
SZA’s foray into acting, with her debut in the upcoming Issa Rae-produced film One of Them Days, signals a new era for her career. She is poised to further diversify her achievements, reinforcing her legacy as one of the most influential artists of her time.
