In a viral moment from the show at Fontainebleau Las Vegas, SZA was seen struggling to climb the few steps to the stage. Dressed in a sleek, floor-length black dress that hugged every curve, the singer needed help from two suited men just to make her way up. Even with their support, progress was slow, so much so that she began hopping up the stairs in an attempt to make it to the mic.

The “All The Stars” singer handled it all with humor. Laughing through the ordeal, she clutched her chest to keep her sparkly pasties in place, clearly trying to avoid an unintended wardrobe malfunction. At one point, it looked like she might give up altogether, but she pushed through and made it.

Once on stage, SZA kept things gracious, thanking her fans and loved ones for their support. She also gave a shoutout to Kai Cenat’s Streamer University program after he handed her the award.

But the night didn’t end there. SZA didn’t just win Favorite Female R&B Artist. She also took home Favorite R&B Song for her 2024 hit “Saturn.” She edged out major names including Chris Brown, Muni Long, The Weeknd & Playboi Carti, and Tommy Richman.

SZA’s night was filled with laughter, love, and big wins. She had a major fashion moment. She racked up big music accolades. Safe to say, her appearance at the AMAs was anything but a “Snooze!”

On Wednesday, May 21, SZA  brought out Lizzo to perform the remix of Lizzo’s hit song “Special.” The dynamic duo also held the sold-out crowd captive at SoFi Stadium as they sang the 2022 song from Lizzo’s album of the same name.

“Okay, so usually when I do very scary things, I have a tendency to bring my best friend with me. You may have seen her,” SZA said when introducing Lizzo. “SoFi [Stadium] counts as one of those scary things, so I brought my best friend for energy and positivity.”

“Lizzo, can you come hang with me?” she said as Lizzo rose onto the stage from below.

Following the performance, Lizzo shared the performance on Instagram.

 “BABYS FIRST STADIUM PERFORMANCE— I love u @sza u r THEE DIVA ! ” her post read.

Since 2014, Lizzo and SZA have been friends as they both rose to superstardom.

During a Twitch stream in February, Lizzo lauded SAZ for her songwriting skills and “how they almost formed a girl band with an NSFW name.”

“She writes the craziest, most insane s— that you’re thinking and feeling, but she just finds a way to say it, and she sings it so beautifully out the gate, out of her mouth the first time,” Lizzo said at the time.

SZA also showed love to Lizzo in the past, and previously called on people to “practice kindness” instead of fat-shaming the singer. 

“I be wondering where all the virtue signaling, well spoken s— talking , internet warriors are when someone genuine needs defending,” SZA posted on X (formerly Twitter) in June 2023. “Where the f— do y’all be at for lizzo ? Do y’all actually know how to support others or only tear them down?”

As rumors have begun to spread that Tory Lanez did not shoot Megan in 2020, SZA jumped in the comments of a video by an Instagram user.

“The density !!!!! I’m actually SO shocked at the amount of ppl fully comfortable bullying a woman that’s proven to be a victim of assault ??!” SZA wrote. “Like out loud where other ppl can see you ?? Lmao u finna be stupid OUTLOUD ?”

SZA’s remarks stem from a claim made by Unite the People, “a nonprofit organization that advocates for social justice and affordable legal services in California.”

On May 14, during a press conference, Walter Roberts, the organization’s “lead consultant,” said a new testimony could exonerate Lanez. According to Roberts, Bradley James identified himself as the bodyguard and driver for Kelsey Harris, a key witness and a former friend of Megan.

“Mr. James informed us he was working as the bodyguard and driver for Ms. Kelsey Harris during Mr. Peterson’s trial,” Roberts said at the 48-minute mark here. “Mr. James informed us he was not under a non-disclosure agreement or a confidentiality agreement and was free to speak with Unite the People and that he was doing it because his conscience would not let him not speak and leave a man in prison for something he did not do.”

[Tory Lanez] grabbed her arm and knocked it down, and the gun fired two more times,” Roberts continued. “In essence, [he] never shot anybody, never even touched that gun, never fired that gun.”

Alex Spiro, Megan’s lawyer, responded to the claims in an official statement, 

“Tory Lanez was tried and convicted by a jury of his peers and his case was properly adjudicated through the court system,” Spiro wrote. “This is not a political matter—this is a case of a violent assault that was resolved in the court of law.”

“Literally talked a CHILD into throwing away his whippet drugs in exchange for a picture/video at the in n out drive through,” she wrote. “Sad but if I can stop this s–t for even a second imma try. Once again, these drugs are clearly marketed to CHILDREN. Really need America to do better man.”

She also shared a photo of the item in question, a whipped cream charger labeled Galaxy Gas. The packaging was covered in bright colors. It featured a strawberry-banana flavor. It looked more like candy than a drug. Billboard has contacted Galaxy Gas for a response.

Health experts have raised alarms about the dangers of nitrous oxide. According to the National Institutes of Health, repeated use can lead to long-term neurological damage. The Cleveland Clinic also warns that a B12 deficiency caused by the substance can result in serious physical and psychological issues.

This isn’t a new concern for SZA. In September 2024, she spoke out about the issue on X. She questioned why products like Galaxy Gas are so easy to find in stores. She also called out how heavily they’re marketed to Black youth.“Sorry to be old n annoying but.. Is no one gonna talk about how galaxy gas came out of no where and is being MASS marketed to black children? The government is doing NOTHING ? .. since when are we selling whip its at the store ???? Somebody protect the children,” she posted.

SZA is currently on tour with Kendrick Lamar. They’re performing together on the Grand National Tour. The tour includes three upcoming shows at SoFi Stadium in California.

Before the event, the singer shared the news with her fans via Instagram: “JERSEY and NEW YORK WE DOING IT MAJORRR . MEET ME AT AMERICAN DREAM MALL TOMORROW AND FRIDAY !! ( there’s a pathway that connects to the stadium ) . So excited to see you at our first mall pop up !!” she wrote in the post’s caption.

In a huge surprise to the singer and her fans, Kendrick Lamar stopped by the event to show some support. The singer’s products are exclusively available to Grand National Tour attendees. The pair’s tour kicked off on April 19 and is expected to hit several major cities like Chicago, Las Vegas, Houston, Philadelphia, and San Francisco.

SZA Reveals The Inspiration Behind Her Not Beauty Brand

Her first product release features a trio of lip gloss shades—ones she’s been quietly wearing for months, including during standout public moments like her appearance at the Super Bowl halftime show.

Not long ago, the singer sat down with Vogue and opened up about her inspiration behind the brand. “I’m not a beauty maven, but I know lips.” “I know what I like, and I’m diligent about finding the best quality ingredients. I wanted to fill a need with something that works for me and that I use daily. Following your passion and letting it lead you, and letting the story develop itself by following the throughline of risk, trust, and willingness is literally what my entire life and career has been about.”

Explaining the brand’s name, she said, “[It] was representative of a reminder of: Don’t try to be these other brands, don’t try to be anything. Don’t just make a random celebrity brand just because you can. My whole life is about being pressure-free but still trying your best, and that’s what Not is about.”

Their mutual respect clearly goes both ways. After SZA took home three Grammy Awards in 2024, Best R&B Song for “Snooze,” Best Progressive R&B Album for SOS, and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for “Ghost in the Machine” with Phoebe Bridgers, Beyoncé sent her a bouquet to celebrate. The handwritten note read: “I’m so happy for you beautiful! Watching you grow and watching you win is an honor. Sending you a huge congrats talented queen. All my love and respect, B.”

SZA was touched, later writing in her Instagram Stories: “Thank you for seeing me before anyone else saw me. Thank you for making me feel valuable when I was the tiniest in the room… May God continue to protect and bless you queen.”

SZA has always been vocal about her love for Bey. In a past Instagram Live with Lizzo, she admitted she’s only seen Beyoncé live once, at Coachella, and was stunned to learn Lizzo had seen her 11 times. “I don’t give a f***, I’m getting tickets. I’m a fan, I deserve. F*** y’all, I deserve.”

Scott, known to fans as LaFlame, wrote, “She belongs to the streets,” a phrase loaded with derogatory meaning.

Though brief, the statement sent shockwaves across social media. Many interpreted it as a response to SZA’s public interaction with Carti—a rapper long associated with chaotic energy and controversy. The timing fueled rumors of a romantic falling out or unresolved emotions between Scott and SZA, who have never confirmed a formal relationship but have long sparked whispers of something more than friendship.

The now-deleted message marked a rare public flash of resentment from Scott, who typically maintains tight control over his online presence. His words echoed a toxic trope often weaponized against women who assert independence or navigate male-dominated spaces. Fans quickly called out the double standard, especially given Scott’s own history with public relationships, including his high-profile connection with Kylie Jenner.

SZA, who recently wrapped her sold-out SOS Tour and remains one of R&B’s most revered voices, hasn’t directly addressed the incident. She continues to focus on her artistry, sharing new music and visuals while remaining largely disengaged from the online drama. Her decision to go live with Playboi Carti appeared casual and unrehearsed—an unscripted moment between peers, not a declaration of intimacy.

Meanwhile, Playboi Carti, whose unpredictable persona makes headlines as often as his music, has remained silent. His presence on the livestream was brief, but his involvement was enough to provoke LaFlame’s ire, revealing how easily social media moments can spiral into public feuds.

Scott’s remark, while quickly erased, underscores the fragility of celebrity dynamics in the digital age. A single sentence can fracture alliances, spark fan outrage, and shift public perception. His followers remain divided—some defending his actions, others condemning the pettiness and misogyny behind his words.

As the dust settles, one thing is clear: the streets don’t belong to SZA. They belong to the insecurities of the men watching her thrive.

The skit featured an attorney asking the rapper about a specific date—February 9—an occasion on which Kendrick performed at the Super Bowl and which Drake recently cited in his legal documents. With trademark nonchalance, Kendrick replied, “I don’t keep up with dates,” setting a lighthearted tone for the evening.

Kendrick stokes the feud as SZA brings the hits

In another moment of playful rivalry, the attorney quotes a notable line from Drake’s diss track “Family Matters,” which resulted in Kendrick flashing a grin before diving into his diss anthem, “Not Like Us.” The playful banter continued throughout the performance, with speculation that Lamar’s skit drew inspiration from Lil Wayne’s notorious deposition video from 2012.

Kendrick also took the opportunity to debut a fresh verse during his rendition of “Family Ties,” performing it solo, without collaborator Baby Keem. Additionally, he made a noteworthy alteration to “m.A.A.d. City,” incorporating a reference to Anita Baker’s classic “Sweet Love,” which earned a heartfelt response from Baker herself, who expressed her delight on social media.

Kendrick’s setlist was a testament to his illustrious career, featuring fan favorites like “Squabble Up,” “Alright,” “HUMBLE.,” “Swimming Pools,” and “Money Trees.” He also delivered another track aimed at Drake, titled “Euphoria,” reinforcing the ongoing rivalry. SZA, serving as co-headliner, showcased her own impressive catalog with hits such as “Kill Bill,” “Snooze,” and “Love Galore.” In a refreshing format, the duo intertwined their performances, treating the audience to collaborative tracks like “30 For 30,” “Doves in the Wind,” and their chart-topping collaboration, “Luther.”

Her first product release features a trio of lip gloss shades—ones she’s been quietly wearing for months, including during standout public moments like her appearance at the Super Bowl halftime show. Speaking with Vogue, she shared, “I’m not a beauty maven, but I know lips.” “I know what I like, and I’m diligent about finding the best quality ingredients. I wanted to fill a need with something that works for me and that I use daily. Following your passion and letting it lead you, and letting the story develop itself by following the throughline of risk, trust and willingness is literally what my entire life and career has been about.”

Explaining the brand’s name, she said, “[It] was representative of a reminder of: Don’t try to be these other brands, don’t try to be anything. Don’t just make a random celebrity brand just because you can. My whole life is about being pressure-free but still trying your best, and that’s what Not is about.” She broke the news to fans via Instagram, announcing that the lip glosses will only be available through pop-up events on the Grand National Tour for now. “Y’ALL BEEN ASKING FOR THE LIP COMBO AND IT’S FINALLY HERE!!!” she wrote. “THE PRODUCTS I’VE BEEN TESTING FOR YEARS ARE NOW YOURS TO TRY!!! Only at ‘NOT BEAUTY’ activations on the GNX Tour!”

SZA and Kendrick hit hometowns, with Mustard in tow and two nights in Toronto

SZA and Kendrick Lamar’s Grand National Tour kicks off April 19 in Minneapolis and will run through June 18, finishing in Landover, Maryland. Stops along the way include major cities such as Chicago, Las Vegas, Houston, Philadelphia, and San Francisco. The tour will also touch down in their respective hometowns—Los Angeles for Kendrick and St. Louis for SZA.

Mustard was recently confirmed as the first supporting act, joining the tour as the opening performer. Toronto will also host back-to-back shows in June, a detail brought up by Jimmy Kimmel during SZA’s recent visit to his show. “You’re going to Toronto for two nights,” he said. “Are you worried?” With a laugh, SZA brushed it off: “I think it’ll be amazing.”

Spanning over five minutes, the visual takes inspiration from the song’s laid-back vibe, using minimalist themes. Filmed in color, as well as black and white, the video transports the viewer into the mind of Kendrick Lamar.

The rapper uses the song and video to tell the story of a couple going through the ups and downs of a relationship. SZA also makes an appearance, bringing a soft, feminine energy to the video as she and the rapper harmonize back and forth.

After dropping only mere hours ago, the video already has over 1.5 million views. It’s also trending at the No.5 spot on YouTube Music. The track’s name (and sample) are inspired by Luther Vandross and Cheryl Lynn’s 1982 rendition of “If This World Were Mine.” The song appears on Kendrick Lamar’s GNX album, which was released in November 2024. Since the track’s release, it’s stayed atop the Billboard charts for several weeks.

Baka Not Nice Shares How Drake Eased His Reaction to ‘Not Like Us’

In other news, OVO affiliate, Baka Not Nice, recently shared his thoughts on being name-dropped by Lamar on “Not Like Us.” In an interview with Hot Freestyle, the rapper and former bodyguard to the Canadian superstar shared insights into the ongoing rivalry between two of hip-hop’s most prominent figures.

Reflecting on Lamar’s references to his past, Baka expressed a surge of emotions that initially compelled him to retaliate. “My instinct was to respond swiftly and assertively,” he recounted. “Coming from my background, it’s unacceptable to call someone out without substantial evidence. The fact that this narrative gained traction is astonishing.”

Baka’s frustration peaked as he noted the widespread acceptance of Lamar’s claims, which he deemed unfounded. “It’s perplexing,” he continued. “We both have children, and to make such serious allegations is beyond comprehension.” Fortunately, a timely conversation with Drake helped him regain perspective. “I was on the verge of letting my anger take over,” he explained. “Then, I received a call from Drake, and it felt almost divine. He said, ‘I understand your feelings, but don’t pay attention to the noise—it’s just noise.’”