Challenges in the Life of SZA in a Detailed Timeline

Updated: March 25, 2025

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped SZA's life and career.

Solána Imani Rowe, professionally known as SZA, is an influential American singer-songwriter. She is known for her diaristic lyrics and genre-bending alternative R&B sound. SZA is a significant figure in contemporary R&B music.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

2016: Frustration with Ctrl's Release Delays

In 2016, SZA expressed her frustration on Twitter about the delays of her album Ctrl, even considering quitting music.

2017: End of Relationship with Ex-Fiancé

Around 2017, SZA's relationship with her ex-fiancé, a fashion designer, ended, sending SZA in a catastrophizing state because he was a "rock in [her] life" and "nobody understood [her] the way he did".

December 2018: Major Leak of Comethru

In December 2018, SZA faced her first major leak when a nine-track unreleased album titled Comethru was distributed through a label called Scissor, crediting her as "Sister Solana" and featuring Kendrick Lamar as "King Kenny."

2018: Grammy Awards

At the 2018 Grammy Awards, SZA did not win in any category, despite her multiple nominations.

2018: Mac Miller's Death

In 2018, SZA's best friend Mac Miller's accidental lethal overdose further pushed her into suicidal thoughts and demotivated her from making music.

August 2020: Label Tension Speculation

In August 2020, SZA sparked speculation about label tensions when she tweeted about TDE president Punch, hinting at delays in releasing new music.

2020: Grandmother's Death

In 2020, the death of SZA's grandmother further pushed her into suicidal thoughts and demotivated her from making music.

January 2024: Legal action warning against leaks

In January 2024, SZA warned that she may pursue legal action against those who release her music without permission.

March 2024: Addressing a fan who leaked unreleased content

In March 2024, SZA addressed a fan named Janessa on Twitter who leaked unreleased images and audio, leading to the deletion and deactivation of the fan's accounts before RCA could take action.