SZA Honored at 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame Ceremony
R&B powerhouse SZA has reached another major milestone in her illustrious career. The Missouri-born artist was celebrated at the 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Dinner, where she received the prestigious Hal David Starlight Award.
A Groundbreaking Achievement
The Hal David Starlight Award honors “gifted young songwriters who are making a significant impact in the music industry with their original songs.” SZA now joins an elite group of recipients, becoming only the second Black woman to receive the honor, following Alicia Keys in 2005.
In her heartfelt acceptance speech at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel, SZA reflected on the significance of this moment: “I’m just beyond all of my wildest dreams. I swear, I’ll be like, ‘Oh I wrote this and I wrote that,’ and [people would] be like, ‘Okay,’ especially if you’re a woman; especially if you’re a Black woman. So to win this … It just means the world.”
A Night to Remember
After being introduced by Songwriters Hall of Fame Chairman Nile Rodgers, SZA took the stage to perform an acoustic version of her chart-topping hit “Snooze” from her blockbuster album SOS.
Rodgers praised SZA’s artistry in a statement: “This is such an exciting time for songwriters and music. Phenomenal artists like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift are pushing the envelope of what success looks like, but who could argue that the last two years belong to SZA. Incredible songwriting, incredible performances, incredible artistry. She so deserves to be the 2024 recipient of the Hal David Starlight Award!”
SZA’s Reaction
Reacting to the honor, SZA expressed her gratitude on Instagram, writing: “This is THE most meaningful thing to me. You have NO idea. THANK YOU beyond words for seeing me at all.”
SZA’s Legacy in Songwriting
SZA’s ability to craft raw, emotional, and relatable lyrics has solidified her place among the most influential songwriters of her generation. With hits like “Kill Bill”, “Good Days”, and “Snooze”, she continues to resonate deeply with fans while breaking barriers in the industry.
Her recognition at the Songwriters Hall of Fame reaffirms her influence, particularly as a Black woman excelling in a space where representation matters. With her next album, Lana, set to release by year’s end, SZA’s star is only continuing to rise—proving her storytelling and artistry are truly timeless.
