SZA feared that fans would only attend the Grand National Tour to see Kendrick Lamar. The collaborative tour has become one of the most highly anticipated musical events of the year, drawing massive crowds across multiple cities.
The R&B superstar is sharing top billing with the rapper on their current global jaunt but has explained that she was crippled by anxiety before the performances began. Performance anxiety affects a significant portion of professional musicians, making SZA’s openness about this struggle particularly meaningful for both fans and fellow artists in the industry.
“Every time I had to go on stage, every time I had to get on a carpet, I’d have full-on panic attacks,” SZA said in conversation with fellow artist Chappell Roan for Interview magazine. “I used to not show up to something because it was like, ‘I’m never going to win. No one cares that I’m here. Why would I go?'” This candid admission sheds light on the often hidden mental health challenges that many performers face behind the scenes.
“Same thing with the Kendrick tour. Everybody’s going to see Kendrick. I don’t even know if I have anything to show these people that’s exciting and new,” The Saturn hitmaker continued. Her vulnerability about feeling overshadowed demonstrates the complex dynamics that can exist when major artists share the stage, even among close collaborators.
However, SZA says she has been able to quash her anxious thoughts by connecting with her spirituality and educating herself on the “laws of magic”. This spiritual approach to managing performance anxiety represents a growing trend among artists who are exploring alternative methods for dealing with stage fright and self-doubt.
“Now it’s just like, ‘F*** it. I don’t have anything else to do, and I want to see where this door is going to lead.’ I want to walk through the door. I want to see what happens in the uncertainty,” she said. This transformation in mindset reflects her personal growth and willingness to embrace the unknown aspects of live performance.
SZA was joined on stage by her pal Lizzo at a concert in Inglewood last month and she explained how the pair have been good friends for more than a decade. The surprise guest appearance became one of the tour’s most memorable moments, showcasing the genuine friendships that exist within the music industry.
“We’ve been friends since, like, 2013, but it was very organic and very random,” The 35-year-old singer recalled. “One day we were on the same tour, and I was like, ‘We’re about to drive out to Lake Michigan, do you want to come?’ And she was like, ‘Yeah, let’s go.’ And then we just got drunk and hung out, and we kept doing that, and then our lives and careers progressed, and we kept talking and hanging out.” Their enduring friendship predates both artists’ rise to mainstream success, highlighting the importance of authentic connections formed before fame.
Meanwhile, SZA confessed last year that she was too “scared to go over” and introduce herself to Beyoncé at the Grammy Awards. This admission reveals how even successful artists can feel intimidated by their idols and industry veterans.
“I can’t speak unless she wants to speak, in my brain, because I don’t want to bother her. She looked so peaceful and beautiful,” The Kill Bill singer – who has long been a fan of the music megastar – said. “I just admire her. She’s a masterclass on poise, grace, artistry, beauty and kindness.” This reverence demonstrates the deep respect that contemporary R&B artists hold for established icons who paved the way.
The Grand National Tour has proven to be a significant success for both artists, with venues consistently selling out and fans praising the chemistry between the two performers. Critics have noted that rather than competing for attention, both artists complement each other’s styles and create a dynamic concert experience.
SZA’s journey from debilitating anxiety to embracing uncertainty on stage has resonated deeply with audiences who appreciate her authenticity and vulnerability. Her willingness to discuss mental health struggles openly has contributed to important conversations about the pressures faced by artists in the spotlight.
The tour has also highlighted the power of collaboration in the music industry, showing how artists can support each other while maintaining their individual artistic identities. Both SZA and Kendrick Lamar have spoken about the mutual respect and creative energy they bring to their shared performances.
As the tour continues, SZA’s transformation from anxious performer to confident artist serves as an inspiring example of personal growth and resilience. Her story demonstrates that even successful artists face internal struggles and that overcoming fear often requires both spiritual practice and a willingness to step into uncertainty.
