Hip Hop and R&B Duos: The Magic of Kendrick Lamar and SZA
Hip Hop and R&B have long been sister genres, giving rise to iconic collaborations over the years. From JAY-Z and Beyoncé to Method Man and Mary J. Blige, and Drake and Rihanna, these partnerships have produced memorable hits. Joining this legacy of rapper-singer duos is the electrifying collaboration between Kendrick Lamar and SZA.
SZA, who joined Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE) in 2013 as an emerging artist, has since become a frequent collaborator with Kendrick Lamar. Together, they have forged a creative synergy that has resulted in numerous chart-topping hits, Grammy nominations, and platinum plaques. With eight collaborations to date, their partnership showcases a unique blend of lyrical depth and soulful vocals.
A Journey of Creative Chemistry
Kendrick and SZA’s collaborations began with SZA’s debut on TDE and have evolved over the years. While Kendrick worked closely with fellow TDE members like ScHoolboy Q, Jay Rock, and Ab-Soul, his most frequent collaborator within the label has been SZA. Their bond extends beyond music, with Kendrick praising SZA’s artistry. In a recent interview with Vogue, Kendrick described her compositions as “disruptive yet beautiful,” reflecting their shared commitment to pushing creative boundaries.
Even though Kendrick parted ways with TDE in 2022, their collaboration continued to thrive. In 2024, they reunited for Kendrick’s Grand National Tour and hinted at a potential joint project. SZA expressed excitement, calling him a genius and fueling anticipation for future music.
Ranking Kendrick and SZA’s Best Collaborations
Below are their top eight collaborations, each showcasing their dynamic partnership:
8. “Untitled 04 | 08.14.2014”
From Kendrick’s untitled unmastered., this raw track captures an unfiltered studio session. SZA’s vocals shine alongside Kendrick’s whispered cues, creating an intimate and acoustic masterpiece.
7. “Babylon”
Appearing on SZA’s Z, this track marked the beginning of their partnership. Kendrick’s raspy flow complements SZA’s airy vocals over DJ Dahi’s moody production.
6. “Traffic Jam (Easy Bake Remix)”
A hidden gem from Jay Rock’s 90059, this funky West Coast track features Kendrick and SZA stealing the show with their high-energy verses and soulful hooks.
5. “Gloria”
The closing track of Kendrick’s GNX (2024), “Gloria” features SZA’s tender vocals paired with Kendrick’s reflective lyrics, crafting a metaphorical ode to creativity and love.
4. “All the Stars”
A global hit from the Black Panther soundtrack, this radio-friendly anthem soared on the Billboard charts and earned multiple accolades. It highlighted their ability to blend commercial appeal with artistic integrity.
3. “30 For 30”
A standout from SZA’s SOS Deluxe: Lana (2024), this sultry track features lush vocals and sharp rhymes from both artists, cementing their status as an unbeatable duo.
2. “Doves in the Wind”
From SZA’s Ctrl, this track sees the duo crafting a smooth ode to femininity over a boom bap beat, blending humor and sensuality with effortless chemistry.
1. “Luther”
The crown jewel of their collaborations, “Luther” from GNX reimagines Luther Vandross and Cheryl Lynn’s “If This World Were Mine.” With bouncy production and harmonious vocals, it exemplifies their unparalleled synergy.
The Legacy of Kendrick and SZA
Kendrick Lamar and SZA continue to set the gold standard for Hip Hop and R&B collaborations. Their ability to seamlessly blend lyrical depth with emotive melodies has solidified their place among iconic music duos. With whispers of a joint project and the possibility of more hits on the horizon, their creative journey is far from over.
Explore their collaborations on Spotify and Apple Music to experience the magic firsthand.
