R&B sensation SZA, born Solána Imani Rowe, is officially part of New Jersey history.
The R&B singer-songwriter who gave music hit songs such “Snooze” and “I Hate U” joined the New Jersey Hall of Fame’s Class of 2026 on Sept. 24. She was inducted in the Performing Arts & Entertainment category.
The 18th annual ceremony took place at the Dream Live Performing Arts Center at American Dream in East Rutherford. Danny DeVito hosted the celebration.
Although SZA was born in St. Louis, Missouri, New Jersey shaped much of her early life. She grew up in Maplewood and attended Columbia High School.
That connection now carries an official distinction. SZA joins a Hall of Fame class honoring figures across entertainment, sports, public service, business and education.
The Performing Arts & Entertainment class includes David Brigati, Edward Brigati Jr. and the late Dino Danelli. Other inductees include former New Jersey Gov. Christine Todd Whitman, former New York Giants linebacker Lawrence “LT” Taylor and radio personality Big Joe Henry.
The New Jersey Hall of Fame recognized SZA’s seven Grammy Awards and more than 70 billion streams. Her induction follows nearly a decade of career-defining accomplishments.
SZA broke through with her 2017 debut album, Ctrl. The multiplatinum project established her as a singular voice in contemporary R&B.
Her 2022 sophomore album, SOS, pushed that momentum even further. The album delivered major hits and expanded SZA’s influence across pop and R&B.
Her Grammy wins include Record of the Year for Kendrick Lamar’s “luther.” She also won Best R&B Song for “Snooze” and “Saturn.”
SOS earned SZA the Grammy for Best Progressive R&B Album. Her résumé also includes major recognition beyond music’s biggest awards ceremony.
SZA and Lamar earned Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations for “All the Stars.” The song appeared on the Black Panther soundtrack.
Her touring résumé is equally notable. The SOS Tour became one of the highest-grossing solo tours by a Black female artist.
In 2025, she reunited with Lamar for their Grand National Tour. The New Jersey Hall of Fame calls it the most successful duo tour ever.
Now, SZA’s New Jersey roots have become part of the state’s cultural record. She joins celebrated inductees including Whitney Houston, Sarah Vaughan and Stevie Van Zandt.
From Maplewood to global stages, SZA’s latest honor brings her journey back home.
