by Waqar | Apr 3, 2025 | Black Girl Magic, Black Owned Business, Digital Mogul, Latest |
Photo by Zuzanna Adamczyk on Unsplash
SZA has firmly established herself as one of 2025’s most influential and versatile artists, setting the stage for what promises to be an extraordinary year. Not only has she made history by being the first artist to simultaneously hold the top spots with a No. 1 movie and No. 1 album, but she also captivated millions with her Super Bowl performance alongside Kendrick Lamar. And now, as if dominating the music scene wasn’t enough, SZA is taking her talents to the entrepreneurial world with the launch of her own beauty brand, Not Beauty. This new venture marks a fresh chapter in the career of this Grammy-winning artist, as she shifts from music to business in a way that’s as dynamic and ambitious as her previous accomplishments.
In a recent appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show on Friday, March 21, SZA shared how this exciting new chapter came to life. Speaking with host Jennifer Hudson, SZA revealed the inspiration behind the makeup line, saying, “People ask about my lip combo all the time. And I am a yapper, right? I’m like a certified yapper, I’m always talking, I’m always singing, and I felt like I needed something that lasted so long.” She went on to explain that her need for long-lasting makeup products was the driving force behind creating the line. “It all came out of necessity,” she continued. “So I pretty much just designed my own formula.”
The Not Beauty lineup includes a range of products designed for all your lip needs, from glosses and creams to liners, stains, and more. However, this isn’t your typical beauty brand. SZA has made it clear that Not Beauty is far from being just another makeup line. Unlike many beauty moguls who set out to become beauty experts, SZA doesn’t consider herself one. Instead, she sees herself as an innovator and creator, aiming to provide functional, reliable, and high-performance products that actually work. The concept behind Not Beauty, she explains, isn’t about glamming up the world; it’s about fulfilling practical needs with products that fit seamlessly into everyday life.
The big surprise? Not Beauty will not be available in stores or online. So, if you’re hoping to get your hands on the products, you’ll need to do so exclusively at SZA’s “Grand National Tour” pop-up activations. Yes, that’s right – these unique products will only be available at the tour, making them a coveted item for fans who are eager to experience both the music and the beauty brand firsthand. For many, this exclusivity factor will only add to the excitement, with a sense of urgency growing as fans scramble to secure their products during the tour.
But SZA’s ambitions don’t end with beauty. In fact, she made it clear that Not Beauty is just the beginning of her larger entrepreneurial vision. “It’ll also branch into maybe Not Farming, Not Furniture, whatever need I see. If I see an armchair that I feel like I can design this better, I’m going to make an armchair,” she explained, giving fans a glimpse into the future of her growing empire. Whether it’s creating functional beauty products, innovative furniture, or even venturing into unexpected industries, SZA’s approach is guided by her creativity and a passion for solving real-world problems. She’s not just interested in making beauty products – she’s on a mission to redefine what it means to be a multifaceted entrepreneur.
While many celebrities have ventured into the beauty space, SZA’s approach stands out because of her authenticity and focus on utility rather than following trends. Her personal style and music resonate with her fans, and now, with Not Beauty, she is able to take her influence and apply it to an entirely different industry. Her products will appeal to those who admire her for more than just her musical talents but also for her creativity and unique sense of style. By releasing a line based on necessity and practicality, rather than pure vanity, SZA sets herself apart from other beauty moguls who often lean into heavily polished, aspirational marketing.
Fans of SZA will also appreciate the thought and attention she’s put into the design of the products themselves. She has always been someone who values authenticity in every aspect of her life, and with Not Beauty, she is continuing that philosophy by providing beauty products that are made for real people, not just those with perfect social media personas. Whether you’re a busy professional, a stay-at-home parent, or anyone in between, SZA’s beauty line is crafted with the everyday user in mind. This no-nonsense, practical approach to makeup ensures that each product is not only functional but also durable, meeting the high demands of a fast-paced, on-the-go lifestyle.
In a world where many new brands are quick to disappear as trends shift, SZA’s vision for Not Beauty promises longevity. She has already proven time and again that she knows how to build something that lasts, whether it’s her career in music or now, with her burgeoning business empire. Her attention to detail, commitment to quality, and genuine passion for creating useful products that make life easier are all factors that suggest Not Beauty is here to stay.
And the exclusive pop-up activations at the Grand National Tour are bound to be a major draw for fans. As the tour progresses, there will undoubtedly be a buzz around each city she visits, with fans eager to get their hands on the limited-edition products. This strategy not only makes the products even more desirable but also adds an element of exclusivity that will only amplify the excitement surrounding SZA’s brand.
But the entrepreneurial side of SZA isn’t just about capitalizing on her fame – it’s about creating something that resonates with her fans and brings value to their lives. She’s not interested in creating just another makeup line for the sake of it; she’s passionate about designing products that work for the real world, not just the beauty industry’s glossy image. SZA’s focus on practicality, combined with her immense talent, sets the stage for an exciting future in both the beauty industry and beyond.
For those eager to try the Not Beauty makeup line, the clock is ticking. The “Grand National Tour” is your only chance to snag the exclusive products that are already creating buzz. As SZA continues to build her empire and redefine the boundaries of what it means to be an artist and entrepreneur, one thing is clear – she’s not just creating a beauty brand; she’s creating a movement.
If you want to be part of SZA’s next big step, now’s the time to secure your tickets to the “Grand National Tour” and experience firsthand the power of Not Beauty. And who knows? The future of this multifaceted mogul might just surprise us all as she continues to push the envelope and redefine what it means to be an artist in the modern world. Don’t miss out on the chance to get a glimpse into the future of SZA’s entrepreneurial era – it’s only just beginning, and the possibilities are endless.
by Jonathan P-Wright | Dec 19, 2023 | Latest, Music News |
In an all-encompassing dialogue with Zane Lowe on Apple Music, SZA, the fearless songbird, unraveled her journey towards fame, her battle with its challenges, and the unexpected catalyst that kick-started her music career – her ex-fiancĂ©.
From Co-dependence to Independence SZA’s music journey began in an unusual fashion. The spark ignited in her was not initially born out of passion, but a need to assert herself. Her ex-fiancĂ©, almost a decade older than her, was the dominant figure in their relationship. He was the one who took care of her basic needs – food, clothing, and shelter.
“My starting point in music can be traced back to my ex-fiancĂ©, who was the provider of my sustenance. He was older than me by about eight years.”
Her feelings of inadequacy were exacerbated when she compared herself to his previous partners – successful women who were lawyers, businesswomen, and artists. As a college dropout, still working as a bartender in a strip club, she felt she lacked value. This feeling initiated her journey into the world of music.
The SOS Call
As the most nominated artist at the 2024 Grammys, with nine nods and a career total of 24, SZA is no stranger to the limelight. However, the artist recently came to a startling realization – the life of fame is far from normal.
“Recently, I’ve come to understand that this entire charade, this fame, is anything but typical.”
Amidst the whirlwind of expectations and the constant intrusion into her personal space, she found herself struggling to cope. This relentless pressure often made her lash out, and she admitted to feeling “on edge and not a kind person.”
Anxiety, Panic Attacks and the Price of Fame
One of the most startling repercussions of her fame has been the onset of panic attacks. SZA confessed to experiencing anxiety over how she is perceived. Her fear of judgment became so intense that she found herself having panic attacks in the most unexpected situations.
“I started experiencing panic attacks like never before. I remember being at a photoshoot for Wall Street Journal, tears streaming down my face, because I was terrified about how I would be perceived.”
Reflections on Fame and Self-Perception
The 34-year-old singer is currently grappling with questions about her identity, public perception, and the meaning of her fame. She often wonders if she can disappear without having to answer to anyone.
“I find myself concerned about what does all of this fame actually mean, how do people view me, what do they expect from me, can I just disappear and not talk to anybody?”
These poignant revelations from the singer’s life paint a vivid picture of her journey from self-doubt to self-assertion, and the ongoing battle with fame and self-perception. Despite the challenges, SZA continues to make waves in the music industry, proving her point and standing tall as an inspiration for many.
by Derrick T Lewis | Sep 26, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Image credit: John Steel / Shutterstock.com
Renowned artists Drake and SZA have teamed up to release a fresh song titled “Slime You Out“. The single, dropped a week before Drake’s much-anticipated album For All The Dogs, has already sparked considerable buzz in the music industry.
A Trip Down Memory Lane
Interestingly, Drake and SZA, both prominent figures in the music world, share a personal history. They were romantically involved in the late 2000s, specifically around 2008-09. Their past connection has added an extra layer of intrigue to their latest musical collaboration.
A Nod to Drake’s Past Crushes
The song’s promotional material features an image from 2012 of actress Halle Berry at the Kids’ Choice Awards, being covered in slime. This choice of imagery is not random. Drake, over the years, has been open about his celebrity crushes, and Halle Berry was one of them. However, this image did not make it to the cover of the streaming platforms. Instead, the cover art honors Adonis Graham, Drake’s son, in a tribute to the For All The Dogs album.
Drake’s Nickelodeon Slime References
Fans of Drake will be familiar with his penchant for referencing Nickelodeon’s iconic slime in his lyrics. In Young Thug’s Business Is Business opener “Parade on Cleveland,” released in June, Drake rapped, “Slime on your head, Nickelodeon time”. This trend continues in “Slime You Out”. Drake sings, “I’m slimin’ you for them kid choices you made,” in the first verse. This is a clear nod to the Nickelodeon culture and its tradition of sliming individuals.
SZA, on the other hand, offers a rebuttal in the song, stating she has “too much pride” to be slimed out. This interplay of lyrics adds a playful element to the song while reflecting the personal dynamics between the two artists.
A Glimpse into Drake’s Upcoming Album
The release of “Slime You Out” has given fans a sneak peek into what they can expect from For All The Dogs. The album, according to various sources, boasts some of Drake’s best verses and deals with controversial topics.
Drake’s father, Dennis Graham, has described the album as “some of the best music” he has heard from his son. Fans and critics alike are eagerly awaiting the release of the album, set to drop on September 22nd, the same day as Doja Cat’s Scarlet album.
Conclusion
“Slime You Out” marks a fresh chapter in the professional relationship between Drake and SZA. Their personal history adds a layer of intrigue to the song, making it a must-listen for fans of both artists. As we await the release of For All The Dogs, the new track gives us a glimpse into the musical genius of Drake and sets high expectations for the upcoming album.
by Samantha J Rice | Feb 2, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
There was a lot of excitement last month when SZA released her highly anticipated album SOS. Among viral hits such as “Kill Bill” and “Snooze,” “Blind” has taken off as one of the most popular songs among fans. In an effort to reward his fans, Leon Thomas was kind enough to offer a cover of the track over the weekend after revealing that he had co-written and co-produced the track with his mentor Babyface. As part of the new version, Thomas shows off his raw vocals and guitar skills as he sings about the lengths he is willing to go for what he loves as he sings:
There was no doubt I would do a cover of SZA’s track ‘Snooze’ from her upcoming album SOS, as this is the track that I co-produced with her. What an amazing experience it has been to see how it has been received by so many people! Make sure that you take a moment to stream my new single ‘Breaking Point’ on Spotify if you caught the vibe,” Thomas wrote on the social media site Instagram.
Last year, the New York-born recording artist made his solo recording debut as a recording artist by releasing the single “Love Jones” with the help of Ty Dolla $ign. He followed up that release with his follow-up “Breaking Point”, which was produced by Don Mills and Coleman, and which also features NBA superstar LeBron James along with another son of his, Bronny James, in Beats By Dre’s latest promotional video. In the past few years, Thomas has had a lot of success penning songs for some big names like SZA. He has received a lot of credit for writing tracks for Giveon’s Give or Take, Ariana Grande’s Positions, Drake’s Certified Lover Boy, and many others.
by Jesse Swindell | Jun 14, 2022 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
The release of SZA debut studio album Ctrl, five years ago this week, marks a milestone. 14 tracks were included on the album, including collaborations with none other than Kendrick Lamar, Travis Scott, Isaiah Rashad, and James Fauntleroy. SZA and Top Dawg Entertainment were able to achieve significant critical and commercial success with the project. This included landing SZA at number three on the Billboard 200 before her music spent an incredible 260 weeks atop that chart. Over the years, the project has also been certified double Platinum and released classic singles including “The Weekend,” “Love Galore,” and “Broken Clocks.”
SZA and TDE announced that they will upgrade Ctrl’s fifth anniversary with a deluxe upgrade. This upgrade includes seven additional songs recorded between 2014 and 2017, as the singer revealed at the time. Among the seven songs is an alternative version of “Love Galore” which includes a new verse by singer SZA, adding to the song’s original theme of regret about love gone by:
In the months since the release of Ctrl, SZA has teased a forthcoming album through loose tracks such as “Passport,” “Hit Different,” “Good Days,” “Nightbird,” “Joni,” and “I Hate U.” Additionally, she contributed music to a series of big moments in entertainment, including Lamar’s score to Black Panther, as well as collaborations with DJ Khaled, Cardi B, Justin Timberlake, Post Malone, and Megan Thee Stallion.
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