SZA recalls tough competition with Taylor Swift

SZA just remembered the time she released her wildly successful album, SOS.

She opened up about how her label made her feel that she wouldn’t be able to beat Taylor Swift, who had also released her album, Midnights, around the same time.

Both records battled for the top spot on the Billboard 200, with SOS debuting at number one on the album’s chart and held that spot for ten weeks, while Midnights, released two months earlier, was at number two.

In an interview with i-D, SZA reflected on the achievement, as it brought her newfound fame.

“My label told me that it was likely that I wouldn’t beat Taylor Swift, and I should prepare for that,” she recalled.

“I was laughing by week three. It was just like, ‘What is this? I never even imagined I could be on the radio,’” SZA further said.

At that time, there were also rumors circulating that the All The Stars singer and Taylor were feuding, but SZA was quick to deny it.

“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 tweeted.

Taylor Swift returned the love on social media where she uploaded a story with the caption: “Been listening to [SZA’s] album nonstop. Absolutely adore her music. So much love and respect for her!!”