SZA Named Variety's 'Hitmaker of the Year'

The Come Up Show, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

SZA has been crowned "Hitmaker of the Year" at Variety's seventh annual Hitmakers celebration. The event, set to grace the Nov. 29 publication and accompanied by an exclusive invitation-only brunch on December 2, recognizes the individuals who have played a pivotal role in shaping and defining this year's 25 most-consumed songs, according to Billboard and Luminate Charts.

Variety's Executive Music Editor, Jem Aswad, succinctly captures the spirit of the event, stating, "The goal of Hitmakers has always been to honor the top artists and songs of the year, and especially the people behind them." He goes on to elaborate, "SZA, her 'SOS' album and tour, and her hits this year are not only a creative and commercial triumph but one with a reach that extends far beyond the music world. We are immensely proud to honor her as our Hitmaker of the Year."

SZA, HITMAKER OF THE YEAR! pic.twitter.com/DjE0V9Jydg

— SZA Brasil (@szabrs) November 6, 2023

SZA's distinction as Hitmaker of the Year follows a string of award nominations, solidifying her status as a dominant force in the music industry. Most recently, Femme It Forward announced its Give Her FlowHERS Awards Gala, featuring SZA alongside notable artists like Teyana Taylor, Brandy, Flo Milli, and others.

Furthermore, the BET Soul Train Awards recently revealed that SZA, Usher, and Summer Walker are leading the pack with nine nominations each. The awards ceremony, scheduled to air on Nov. 26, marks a remarkable month for the talented artist.

Along with SZA, Olivia Rodrigo, Metro Boomin and boygenius, Billie Eilish and Finneas, Maren Morris and Mark Ronson are among the honorees at Variety’s seventh annual Hitmakers celebration. https://t.co/8KZMRPCNpR

— Variety (@Variety) November 6, 2023

SZA's critically acclaimed album, "SOS," made a significant impact with its debut at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart in December. The album comprises 23 tracks, including hit singles like "Kill Bill," "Snooze" and "Nobody Gets Me," with collaborations featuring renowned artists such as Don Toliver, Phoebe Bridgers, Travis Scott and Ol' Dirty Bastard.

Following the album's remarkable success, SZA embarked on an extensive tour across Europe and the United States, captivating audiences with her artistry. The North American leg of her tour commenced on Sept. 20, spanning major cities and concluding in Phoenix, Arizona, on Oct. 29.

Variety's 2023 Hitmakers program, meticulously curated by the editorial team, includes a lineup of distinguished awards:

• SZA – Hitmaker of the Year
• Olivia Rodrigo – Storyteller of the Year
• Boygenius – Group of the Year
• Metro Boomin – Producer of the Year
• Mark Ronson – Soundtrack of the Year
• Billie Eilish and FINNEAS – Film Song of the Year: "What Was I Made For"
• Maren Morris – Changemaker of the Year
• Republic Records – Label of the Year
• Grammy Museum President and CEO Michael Sticka – Music Education and Advocacy Leadership Award, presented by City National Bank