Childhood and Education Journey of SZA in Timeline

Updated: March 25, 2025

An overview of the childhood and early education of SZA, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

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

November 8, 1989: SZA's Birth

On November 8, 1989, Solána Imani Rowe, known professionally as SZA, was born in St. Louis, Missouri.

Others born on this day/year

1994: Childhood Nickname

As a child, Rowe was affectionally nicknamed "Chickabee" by her mother, derived from the film Nell released in 1994.

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2008: High School Graduation

In 2008, Rowe graduated from Columbia High School.

2014: Moved to Los Angeles and met Mac Miller

In 2014, SZA moved to Los Angeles and met Mac Miller, who produced two songs from her album Z.

2016: Criticism of Donald Trump

In 2016, during that year's presidential election, SZA condemned Trump supporters, stating that they endorse "bigotry, lying, and xenophobia" and that "[people] are dying from the stereotypes he perpetuates." That same year, she also criticized the hypocrisy in public perception, stating that "we have Trump removing Muslims from conferences [and] spewing venomous bigotry [...] yet Beyoncé being positive is scary?"

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".

2017: Fans Donate to Hurricane Harvey Relief

In 2017, following Hurricane Harvey, SZA invited fans to spend time with her after Ctrl the Tour in exchange for donating essential items such as non-perishable food, diapers, gloves, masks, trash bags, and baby food.

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.

2019: Financial Support and Merchandise Line Launch

In 2019, SZA contributed financially toward a fan's chemotherapy treatments and used her platform to help find a kidney donor. That same year, SZA launched a merchandise line called Ctrl Fishing Company, which included apparel featuring phrases such as "Puck Flastic" and "Sustainability Gang", as well as sea animals like blue whales and seahorses.

April 22, 2020: Participation in Benefit Concert

On April 22, 2020, SZA participated in a benefit concert to support New Jersey's COVID-19 pandemic relief efforts.

2020: Online Meditation Session with Lizzo

In 2020, SZA hosted an online meditation session with Lizzo on Instagram Live, where SZA played a Tibetan singing bowl.

2020: Grandmother's Death

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

2021: Partnership with Tazo and American Forests

In 2021, SZA partnered with tea brand Tazo and American Forests to address environmental racism—disproportionate environmental harm affecting Black and brown communities. The corps comprised 25 locally hired fellows trained in climate justice advocacy, tree planting, and maintenance.

April 16, 2024: SZA Expresses Support for Palestine

During the SOS Tour concert in Australia on April 16, 2024, SZA expressed her support for Palestine by holding the country's flag and calling out, "Free Palestine".