SZA, crowned as Billboard’s Woman of the Year 2023, delivered a heartfelt and motivational speech during the award ceremony on March 1 in Los Angeles. The New Jersey-born R&B sensation shared her struggles with self-confidence and offered advice on embracing vulnerability to her peers, fans, and aspiring artists.
Embracing Vulnerability
Presented the award by fellow New Jersey native Coi Leray, SZA began her speech by expressing gratitude to her team and paying respect to the many talented women in attendance. She acknowledged stars like Lana Del Rey, Olivia Rodrigo, Chlöe Bailey, Doechii, Latto, and Leray herself, emphasizing that anyone could have been in her position.
SZA opened up about the misconception that successful individuals always feel confident. “I used to feel like I didn’t belong because I don’t always feel like that girl,” she shared.She explained how embracing uncertainty and staying open to possibilities transformed her journey.“The key is to stay open and available for whatever the universe or God wants to do with your life,” she added.
Redefining Success
Reflecting on her historic 10-week run atop the Billboard 200 with her sophomore album SOS, SZA admitted that even she is sometimes surprised by her achievements. Despite her success, she emphasized the importance of life beyond music. “I want my life to be more than music. I want to serve others and be open to what God has planned for me,” SZA said. She encouraged the audience to embrace challenges, saying: “You don’t have to be confident, or even know that you’re ‘the one.’ You just have to say yes to the possibility.”
Recognizing a Milestone
Billboard’s editorial director, Hannah Karp, praised SZA’s impact, saying: “Since she burst onto the scene in 2017, SZA has defied genres and released raw, powerful songs. With SOS, she has solidified her position as a contemporary R&B force and catapulted into superstardom.” The success of SOS has undeniably cemented SZA’s legacy, with the album’s accolades and chart dominance reflecting her artistic growth and resilience.
SZA’s journey is a testament to embracing vulnerability, staying open to possibilities, and breaking through barriers, inspiring countless fans and fellow artists.
