SZA’s “SOS” sets new record as longest-running top 10 album by a female artist in Billboard 200 history

SZA’s “SOS” sets new Billboard 200 top 10 record

In the world of contemporary and alt-R&B music, few artists have shaped the last decade quite like SZA. The genre-defying singer-songwriter, known for her emotional honesty and sonic experimentation, has achieved what many thought impossible. Her 2022 sophomore album SOS has broken the Billboard record for the longest-running top 10 album by a female artist, surpassing Adele’s 21 with an incredible 85-week streak on the Billboard 200 chart. This also comes after SOS surpassed Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” as the longest running top 10 album by a Black artist in Billboard 200 history, in March.

This feat isn’t just a headline—it’s a testament to SZA’s staying power, artistry, and ability to tap into the heart of a generation.

From Ctrl to Culture-Shifting Stardom

SZA’s journey didn’t begin with SOS. Back in 2017, her debut studio album Ctrl caught fire almost instantly. A blend of R&B, neo-soul, and alternative sounds, Ctrl offered fans an unfiltered look into modern relationships, self-image struggles, and growing pains. It resonated deeply with Millennials and Gen Z alike, building a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim.

Despite the success, SZA took her time with the follow-up. Fans waited five long years for her next project—but it was well worth it. When SOS finally dropped in December 2022, it felt like a release of pent-up emotional energy, both from SZA and her audience.

SOS: A Genre-Blurring, Emotionally Charged Album

SOS is a masterclass in storytelling. With 23 tracks and a runtime that spans over an hour, the album navigates heartbreak, rage, self-reclamation, and vulnerability. It’s confessional, but not cryptic. Poetic, but still relatable.

Songs like “Shirt” and “Snooze” became instant fan favorites, with lyrics that captured the disjointed, beautiful messiness of love. But it was “Kill Bill,” a darkly humorous breakup anthem, that took SZA’s reach to new heights, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a cultural moment.

Beyond the solo performances, the album’s collaborations elevated its appeal. Travis Scott, Don Toliver, Phoebe Bridgers, and the late Ol’ Dirty Bastard all contributed unique flavors to the record, helping SOS push the boundaries of what R&B can be in 2025.

A Record-Breaking Legacy

While its lyrical vulnerability is impressive, what sets SOS apart is its commercial performance. Not only did the album debut at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, it spent 12 non-consecutive weeks in that spot—an achievement no other R&B album by a woman had reached in nearly four decades.

Now, with 85 weeks and counting in the top 10, SZA has dethroned Adele’s 21, which previously held the record since the early 2010s. For context, 21 was a global juggernaut with enduring appeal. That SOS has overtaken it speaks volumes about how deeply SZA’s work connects with listeners today.

This kind of longevity is rare, especially in the streaming age where albums often have short life cycles. SZA’s consistency is driven by both her artistry and an unusually engaged fanbase that continues to support her long after release week.

Lana: The Deluxe Drop That Changed Everything

To further fuel the momentum, SZA dropped the deluxe version of SOS—titled Lana—in December 2024. This wasn’t a basic repackage with a few bonus tracks. Instead, she added 19 brand-new songs, giving fans an entirely new chapter to explore. In February 2025, four new songs were added, to celebrate SZA’s Super Bowl Halftime Show performance with Kendrick Lanar.

The deluxe featured the highly anticipated track “30 for 30” with Kendrick Lamar, a reunion between two Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE) alumni. The track, filled with lyrical depth and mutual respect, quickly became a standout moment. Its release also signaled a return to form for Kendrick, and a reminder of the undeniable chemistry between the two.

Other new songs like “PSA,” “Take You Down,” and “Saturn” offered more introspective layers, blending ambient R&B with existential musings, solidifying the project as both emotionally charged and sonically rich.

SZA and Kendrick Lamar Launch the Grand National Tour

In another massive move, SZA and Kendrick kicked off the Grand National World Tour on April 19, 2025, in Minneapolis. The tour pairs two of music’s most introspective and innovative voices on the same stage—an event fans have been waiting for since the early TDE days.

The setlist spans their entire careers, including Ctrl, SOS, Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, and DAMN. The next tour stop lands in Houston on April 23, and anticipation is sky-high.

Beyond the music, the tour offers high-concept visuals, immersive stage designs, and emotionally resonant moments. It’s a live show that doubles as an experience, bringing their deeply personal lyrics to life.

Why ‘SOS’ Still Matters Two Years Later

So, what makes SOS more than just a successful album? Why is it still climbing charts nearly two years after release?

• Emotional Realness: SZA’s lyrics read like a journal. People see themselves in her songs. She doesn’t hide behind metaphors or ego—she puts her insecurities on display.

• Genre Fluidity: From alt-rock riffs to lo-fi beats, SZA doesn’t stick to one sound. This freedom attracts a wide, diverse audience.

• Cultural Relevance: From TikTok trends to award shows, SZA’s music stays in the conversation. She knows how to remain visible without overexposure.

• Timeless Themes: Love, heartbreak, identity, anger, growth—these are not fleeting topics. SOS will resonate with future generations just as Ctrl still does today.

R&B is Thriving, and SZA is Leading the Charge

The current landscape of R&B is rich and diverse. Alongside artists like Brent Faiyaz, Summer Walker, Giveon, and Jazmine Sullivan, SZA stands at the forefront. Her success isn’t a fluke—it’s part of a larger renaissance of Black storytelling in music that values emotional depth and sonic exploration.

Yet what sets SZA apart is her ability to balance vulnerability and strength. She owns her flaws. She makes music that speaks to people navigating the messy process of becoming themselves.

The Future of SZA: What’s Next?

With SOS and Lana still dominating, it’s unclear when SZA will release her next project—but fans are already speculating. Will she venture into film? Drop an acoustic EP? Collaborate with a left-field artist like Frank Ocean or Rosalía?

Whatever direction she takes, one thing is certain: the world will be watching—and listening.

SZA’s Legacy is Still Being Written

In an era defined by fast drops, viral singles, and fleeting fame, SZA is a reminder that authenticity, patience, and craft still matter. She waited five years to drop SOS, and in doing so, created a body of work that’s rewriting history and reshaping the future of R&B.

With over 85 weeks in the top 10, a Grammy-winning discography, and a sold-out world tour, SZA’s moment isn’t coming—it’s here, and it’s built to last.