SZA Reflects on Competition with Taylor Swift’s ‘Midnights’

In an interview with i-D, SZA reminisced about one of her most significant moments in her career—the release of her critically acclaimed album SOS. The album managed to top the Billboard 200 chart, securing a coveted number-one position that lasted ten weeks—an achievement she had not anticipated given the fierce competition from another artist who was simultaneously releasing her own record.

At the time, SZA’s label informed her that it was likely she wouldn’t surpass Taylor Swift, who had released her album Midnights in close proximity. Both tracks battled for the top spot, with SOS claiming the number one position and Swift’s release following closely behind at number two.

Reflecting on this achievement, SZA revealed a mix of disbelief and humor: “By week three, I was like, ‘What is this? I never even imagined I could be on the radio.’” The initial reaction to such success felt surreal, but it eventually brought her newfound fame.

Unbeknownst to many, whispers circulated about potential feuds between SZA and Taylor. However, she quickly dismissed these rumors with a lighthearted tweet: “Uhh I feel silly that I even have to say this but i see supporters arguing and I hate that. I don’t have beef w ANYONE especially not Taylor lmao I genuinely loved her album and the writing! Everyone’s jus tryna do their BEST as we all should,” she wrote.

This playful stance didn’t go unnoticed by Swift, who appreciated SZA’s sentiment and publicly expressed her admiration for the artist. She shared a story with the caption: “Been listening to [SZA’s] album nonstop. Absolutely adore her music. So much love and respect for her!!”

These interactions illustrate not only how the rivalry between these two artists played out in public but also how they chose to engage constructively rather than allow personal disputes to overshadow their mutual appreciation of each other’s work.