The Songwriters Hall of Fame will award Solána Imani Rowe, also known as SZA, with the Hal David Starlight Award, which recognizes young songwriters.
According to Variety, the 34-year-old singer joins previous recipients such as Taylor Swift, Post Malone, Lil Nas X, Halsey, Sara Bareilles, Ed Sheeran, Nick Jonas, Nate Ruess, Dan Reynolds of Imagine Dragons, John Legend, Alicia Keys, Ne-Yo, Drake, Benny Blanco, Jason Mraz, John Mayer, Rob Thomas, and John Rzeznik.
SZA will be the second Black woman to receive the distinction, after Alicia Keys in 2005. The four-time Grammy winner will be honored at the 53rd Annual Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Dinner, held on Thursday, June 13 at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City.
“This is THE most meaningful thing to me,” SZA stated in an Instagram story in response to the announcement. “You have no idea.” Thank you beyond words for seeing me at all.
In 2004, the Hal David Starlight Award was established to recognize SHOF Chairman Emeritus Hal David’s significant contributions to the development of new composers. This year’s winners are “gifted young songwriters who are making a significant impact in the music industry with their original songs.”
“This is such an exciting time for songwriters and music,” SHOF chairman Nile Rodgers stated. While singers such as Beyoncé and Taylor Swift have redefined success, SZA has dominated the past two years. Incredible songwriting, performances, and artistry. She truly deserves to get the Hal David Starlight Award in 2024!”