Forget the legends like Jay-Z and Beyoncé, or Drake and Rihanna. Today, the ultimate duo in music is none other than Kendrick Lamar and SZA. Their chemistry has produced numerous hits, and their unique blend of talent sets them apart in the music world.
Back in 2013, SZA joined Top Dawg Entertainment, and since then, her partnership with Kendrick Lamar has flourished. With eight collaborations and counting, they’ve achieved Billboard Hot 100 hits and even Grammy nominations. It’s surprising, but SZA has collaborated with Kendrick more than his fellow Black Hippies like ScHoolboy Q and Jay Rock.
Kendrick’s admiration for SZA is evident. In a Vogue interview, Kendrick praised her growth, saying, “She has the answers to some of the things she was curious about and is willing to tell it all in the most disruptive yet beautiful compositions this generation has ever heard.”
Though Kendrick left TDE in 2022, he hasn’t stopped working with SZA. They’ve teamed up for the Grand National Tour, promoting Kendrick’s latest album, GNX. This tour will span various North American arenas, including a stop in Toronto, home to Kendrick’s rival, Drake.
There’s even talk of a joint project between Kendrick and SZA. In an interview with Sherri Shepherd, SZA expressed her excitement: “I would love that. I think that would be amazing. He’s such a genius.”
Their best collaborations include tracks like “Untitled 04” from Kendrick’s “untitled unmastered.” album, where the raw studio magic shines. Another early favorite is “Babylon” from SZA’s debut, showcasing their evolving musical partnership back in 2014.
“Traffic Jam (Easy Bake Remix)” deserves more recognition. Although buried in Jay Rock’s album, it’s a standout track with funky production that lets Kendrick and SZA steal the show. While Jay Rock delivers solid verses, it’s Kendrick and SZA who shine bright.
Among their most successful tracks is “All the Stars,” a hit from the Black Panther soundtrack that cracked the Billboard top 10. The song’s success lays in its celestial feel and Kendrick’s candid verses about entitlement.
Their recent collaboration on SZA’s “SOS Deluxe: Lana” album, “30 For 30,” further cements their status as a formidable duo. The song’s catchy, soulful vibe keeps listeners hooked, and it’s hard not to feel the chemistry between these two talents.
However, the crown jewel of their collaborations might be “Luther” from Kendrick’s GNX. The track channels the essence of classic duets, bringing Kendrick and SZA together in a beautiful harmony. It’s a shame it’s only three minutes long.
Even though a joint project hasn’t materialized yet, the magic in Kendrick and SZA’s music is undeniable. Their ability to blend rap and R&B has created a sound that’s truly their own.
The music world is better with Kendrick Lamar and SZA as they push boundaries and create magic. Their partnership isn’t just about making hits; it’s about pushing the envelope of rap and R&B, making them stand out as a duo that defines modern music.