SZA has opened up about her creative partnership with Kendrick Lamar.
The pair first collaborated in 2014 on SZA’s EP Z and have worked together several times since, including on a joint stadium tour earlier this year.
Speaking to GQ for its Man of the Year edition, the Kill Bill singer praised Lamar’s talent and approach to his craft.
“He’s such a professional human,” she said. “The way he approaches everything is so methodical but fluid. It’s beautiful. I definitely have just tried to observe. And you know, he’s so mature. I love working with him.”
SZA went on to explain that when collaborating with the Not Like Us rapper, she trusts his creative instincts completely.
“I don’t ask any questions. I just do it,” she told the publication. “And I love that as freedom too. It’s like, removing choice creates freedom.”
Reflecting on her comment, she added with a laugh, “I know that sounds so crazy to say in a time like this. I’m sure that’ll be the headline: ‘Removing Choice Creates Freedom. SZA Loves Fascism.'”
The duo have previously joined forces on several acclaimed tracks, including the 2018 hit All the Stars from the Black Panther soundtrack, which earned four Grammy nominations.
SZA also featured on two songs from Lamar’s most recent album GNX – Gloria and Luther – and the pair also worked together on 30 for 30 from SZA’s 2024 album Lana.
