SZA’s ‘Snooze’ Wins Best R&B At The VMAs

SZA’s smash hit “Snooze” won the award for Best R&B at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), further cementing her as one of the leading figures in contemporary R&B. The single, from her critically acclaimed 2022 album SOS, beat out strong competitors like Victoria Monét’s “On My Mama” and Tyla’s “Water,” both of which had garnered significant attention in the R&B scene. The victory at the VMAs reflects SZA’s ability to create music that resonates deeply with audiences, showcasing her artistry and emotional depth.

The Success of “Snooze”

“Snooze” is one of the standout tracks from SOS, a project that solidified SZA’s place at the forefront of the modern R&B genre. The song, with its laid-back yet soulful vibe, explores themes of intimacy, vulnerability, and love. SZA’s ethereal vocals and the song’s smooth production captured the attention of fans and critics alike, helping it peak at number two on the Billboard Hot 100​.

What sets “Snooze” apart is its blend of emotional sincerity and soothing melodies, a hallmark of SZA’s style. Its relatable lyrics about being willing to stand by a lover despite their flaws struck a chord with listeners, while the song’s relaxed tempo and R&B groove made it a staple on playlists. This emotional resonance likely contributed to its massive success and the VMA win.

Competition at the VMAs

SZA’s win came in a highly competitive category. Victoria Monét’s “On My Mama” had been a favorite, praised for its nostalgic feel and empowerment themes. Monét’s song, infused with 90s R&B elements and catchy hooks, had gained traction both in critical circles and on streaming platforms​. Likewise, Tyla’s “Water,” an Afrobeats-influenced track, had become a viral sensation, bringing a fresh sound to the R&B category​.

Despite the stiff competition, SZA’s “Snooze” ultimately triumphed, demonstrating her widespread appeal and the lasting impact of her music. The win also highlights the evolving nature of the R&B genre, with artists like SZA, Monét, and Tyla pushing its boundaries and incorporating diverse influences into their music.

The Impact of SOS

SZA’s SOS album has been a monumental success since its release in December 2022. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and stayed there for ten consecutive weeks, marking one of the most impressive chart runs for an R&B album in recent years. Songs like “Kill Bill,” “Nobody Gets Me,” and “Snooze” helped drive the album’s popularity, showcasing SZA’s versatility and ability to blend different genres, including pop, R&B, and alternative.

SOS is also notable for its collaborations with high-profile artists such as Travis Scott, Don Toliver, and Phoebe Bridgers. The album’s broad range of sounds and introspective lyrics about love, self-worth, and personal growth have resonated with a wide audience, solidifying SZA’s position as one of the most influential artists of her generation.

Significance of the Win

Winning the Best R&B award at the 2024 VMAs is a testament to SZA’s continued dominance in the music industry. The award not only recognizes the success of “Snooze” but also reflects the cultural impact of her music. SZA has become a trailblazer in the R&B genre, consistently pushing its boundaries while staying true to her unique artistic vision.

SZA’s victory at the VMAs is more than just an accolade—it highlights her ability to connect with listeners on a deep, emotional level. As she continues to evolve as an artist, the success of “Snooze” and the SOS album indicates that she is poised to remain a dominant force in the music world for years to come.