SZA has added a hometown honor to a career already filled with major music achievements. During the New Jersey Hall of Fame’s 18th annual induction ceremony on Sept. 24, the Grammy-winning singer was welcomed into the Performing Arts & Entertainment category.
At the ceremony, actor Danny DeVito introduced and inducted SZA, recognizing her connection to the state where she grew up. Born in St. Louis, SZA was raised in Maplewood, New Jersey, and attended Columbia High School. In her acceptance speech, she reflected on her years in the area, including the jobs she held before finding success in music.
SZA also spoke about the importance of community and celebrated New Jersey’s cultural influence. She acknowledged fellow Columbia High School graduate Lauryn Hill, another artist with deep ties to the state.
The induction arrives after years of commercial and critical success for SZA. Her catalog includes the albums Ctrl and SOS, while her career has brought multiple Grammy Awards, major streaming milestones, and recognition across the music industry.