SZA Makes History at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards
The iHeartRadio Music Awards have consistently shown a deep appreciation for SZA’s talent, and the 2025 ceremony was no exception. Hosted by the iconic LL Cool J, the event celebrated the best in music, and SZA emerged as one of the night’s brightest stars. The artist, known for her hit song “Kill Bill,” was crowned R&B Artist of the Year, marking a monumental achievement in her career. This win solidified her status as a trailblazer in the music industry, as she became the first artist in iHeartRadio history to win the award three times.
A Triumphant Win in a Competitive Category
SZA, whose real name is Solána Rowe, claimed her victory in a highly competitive category. She faced stiff competition from the likes of Chris Brown, Muni Long, Usher, and Victoria Monet. Her previous wins in 2023 and 2024 had already set her apart, but this latest triumph cemented her legacy as a dominant force in R&B. The singer’s speech was both heartfelt and humble as she accepted the honor at the prestigious Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on March 17th. She expressed her gratitude to her team, her fans, and the platform for recognizing her work, emphasizing how their support has allowed her to transcend genres and push boundaries in her music.
A Night of Recognition and Gratitude
During her acceptance speech, SZA thanked her fans for their unwavering support, acknowledging how they’ve helped her “break out of any genre every single time.” Her words reflected a deep appreciation for the freedom she’s been given to explore her artistry without constraints. She closed her remarks with a simple yet sincere message, “Have a blessed evening,” encapsulating her grace and humility.
SZA’s Stellar Year with Multiple Nominations
The 35-year-old artist had an impressive showing at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards, earning a total of four nominations. In addition to R&B Artist of the Year, she was nominated for Best Lyrics for her song “Saturn,” Hip-Hop Song of the Year for “Rich Baby Daddy,” which features Drake and Sexyy Red, and the highly coveted Artist of the Year Award. Other notable artists vying for the top prize included Taylor Swift, Morgan Wallen, Billie Eilish, Doja Cat, and Kendrick Lamar, among others. This lineup further highlighted SZA’s versatility and impact across multiple genres.
A Milestone in a Groundbreaking Career
SZA’s history-making win at the iHeartRadio Music Awards is just the latest chapter in her remarkable journey. From her early days as an emerging artist to her current status as a industry icon, SZA has consistently defied expectations and redefined what it means to be an R&B artist. Her ability to seamlessly blend genres and create music that resonates with a wide audience has made her a standout figure in contemporary music. This recognition serves as a testament to her hard work, creativity, and the deep connection she shares with her fans.
A Night to Remember: Celebrating Music’s Biggest Stars
The 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards was a celebration of talent, innovation, and the unifying power of music. With SZA’s historic win, the ceremony underscored the importance of recognizing artists who continue to push the boundaries of their craft. As the music industry evolves, SZA’s achievements remind us of the enduring impact of authentic artistry and the lasting impression it leaves on fans and the culture alike. Her legacy, now further cemented by this milestone, will undoubtedly inspire future generations of musicians to aim for greatness.