Lizzo, SZA, And Another Artist Almost Formed A Rock Band

Chloe Fitzgerald

5 min read

Post on May 05, 2025

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The Genesis of the Idea: How the Collaboration Almost Happened

The seeds of this unlikely rock band were reportedly sown in late 2019. Initial conversations took place during a chance encounter at a Los Angeles recording studio. Lizzo, known for her infectious blend of pop, R&B, and hip-hop, was reportedly exploring a rockier sound, while SZA, renowned for her soulful R&B and alternative hip-hop, expressed a similar interest in pushing creative boundaries. A shared love for classic rock artists like Joan Jett and Janis Joplin fueled their initial discussions.

• Initial conversations took place during a chance encounter at a Los Angeles recording studio in late 2019.
• The proposed band name was reportedly "The Electric Ladies," reflecting their powerful vocal styles and intended rock sound.
• Early songwriting sessions involved exploring themes of female empowerment, self-love, and social commentary, common threads in the solo work of both Lizzo and SZA.

Lizzo's powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence would have formed the energetic core of the band. SZA's sultry, emotive voice and introspective lyricism would have added a layer of depth and complexity. Their combined musical styles, initially seemingly disparate, held a surprising potential for synergy within a rock context. The blend of Lizzo's upbeat, funky rhythms with SZA's soulful melodies promised a unique and captivating sound.

The Third Member of the Potential Supergroup: Unveiling the Mystery Artist

The third member of this almost-formed rock supergroup was the acclaimed guitarist and songwriter, Brittany Howard of Alabama Shakes. Howard, known for her powerful vocals and dynamic guitar playing, possesses a musical background that perfectly complemented Lizzo and SZA's talents. Her experience with alternative rock and blues offered a raw, edgy counterpoint to their pop and R&B influences.

• Brittany Howard's extensive experience with the critically acclaimed band Alabama Shakes, along with her solo career, established her as a force to be reckoned with in alternative music.
• Her Grammy-winning achievements and numerous collaborations highlighted her undeniable talent and versatility.
• Howard's instrumental prowess and songwriting skills would have provided a strong backbone for the band's music.

Howard’s contributions would have added a gritty, soulful edge to the band’s sound, creating a dynamic interplay between the three artists' unique styles. Her guitar work, characterized by its raw energy and emotional depth, would have perfectly matched the power and passion of Lizzo and SZA's vocals.

Why the Rock Band Never Materialized: Uncovering the Reasons Behind the Disbandment

Despite their shared enthusiasm and creative synergy, several factors contributed to the demise of "The Electric Ladies" before it officially launched. The primary reason was scheduling conflicts. All three artists had flourishing solo careers with demanding touring and recording schedules. Finding time to commit to a new band proved insurmountable.

• Conflicting tour dates and recording schedules for each artist made consistent band rehearsals and performances impossible.
• Creative differences regarding the band's musical direction emerged during songwriting sessions. While there was a shared vision, disagreements arose on specific sonic elements and lyrical themes.
• Changes in individual career trajectories led each artist to focus on their solo projects, ultimately leading to the quiet dissolution of the project.

These factors, while seemingly minor individually, cumulatively proved insurmountable. The project, while exciting, ultimately fell victim to the realities of navigating the demands of the music industry and individual artistic pursuits.

What Could Have Been: Imagining the Sound and Success of the Lizzo, SZA Rock Band

Speculating on what a Lizzo, SZA, and Brittany Howard rock band could have achieved is both intriguing and exciting. Their combined talents suggested a potent mix of soulful vocals, powerful guitar riffs, and energetic rhythms. Imagine a sound that seamlessly blended Lizzo's funk-infused pop with SZA's introspective R&B and Howard's raw, bluesy rock.

• Hypothetical album titles could have ranged from "Electric Ladies" to "Soulfire Riot" or "Triple Threat."
• Potential song ideas might have explored themes of female empowerment, social justice, and personal growth.
• Musical influences could have ranged from classic rock icons like Led Zeppelin and Fleetwood Mac to contemporary artists like St. Vincent and Sharon Van Etten.

Their music would have undoubtedly garnered significant critical acclaim. The unique combination of their individual styles would have created a truly distinct and innovative sound, potentially influencing the rock music scene and creating a lasting legacy. The commercial success of such a supergroup would have been almost guaranteed, given the individual popularity of each artist.

Conclusion: A Missed Opportunity in Music History?

The near-formation of a rock band featuring Lizzo, SZA, and Brittany Howard represents a fascinating "what-if" scenario in music history. While the collaboration ultimately fell through, exploring the potential of this unexpected trio offers a compelling look at the creative possibilities and the unpredictable nature of the music industry. What are your thoughts on this surprising revelation? Share your opinions and theories on what a Lizzo, SZA rock band might have sounded like in the comments below! Let's discuss this almost-formed supergroup and imagine the musical landscape it could have reshaped. Do you think we'll ever see a similar collaboration from these incredible artists? Let the discussion on this amazing near-miss begin!