The 2024 Grammys were not only a celebration of musical triumphs but also witnessed the unexpected as SZA, the most nominated artist of the night, took the stage in a Mastercard commercial, debuting her new track “Saturn.” The enchanting performance, set against an enchanted forest backdrop, showcased SZA’s unique blend of artistry and advocacy for Mastercard’s Priceless Planet Coalition.
In a surprising turn of events, SZA descended from a vine into an enchanted forest during the Mastercard commercial, treating fans to a sneak peek of her upcoming song “Saturn.” The commercial, part of Mastercard’s Priceless Planet Coalition campaign promoting forest restoration, aimed at planting millions of trees globally. SZA’s participation added a touch of magic to the Grammys, merging music and environmental consciousness.
The Grammy House presented by Mastercard served as the stage for SZA’s captivating performance, and the commercial featured her husband, music producer Mark Ronson, and their daughter, Ruthie. The commercial aligns with Mastercard’s mission to restore forests around the world, emphasizing the collective power to make a positive impact on the environment.
Prior to her commercial debut, SZA proved to be the shining star of the 66th annual Grammy Awards. With an impressive nine nominations, she took home three Grammys, including Best Pop Duo/Group Performance, Best Progressive R&B Album, and Best R&B Song. SZA’s emotional acceptance speech highlighted her friendship with Lizzo, her gratitude, and her disbelief at the journey she has undertaken in the music industry.
SZA’s live performance at the Grammys further solidified her status as a powerhouse in the music industry. Delivering a sultry rendition of her hits “Snooze” and “Kill Bill,” she captivated the audience with her unique style against a grungy alley and flaming dumpster backdrop. The performance showcased SZA’s versatility, blending yearning melodies with revenge fantasy lyrics, creating an unforgettable Grammy moment.
SZA’s success extends beyond the Grammys, with her second studio album, “SOS,” debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. The album’s unprecedented ten nonconsecutive weeks atop the list have made it a record-breaking phenomenon. Songs like “Kill Bill” claimed the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100, marking a historic achievement for SZA.
SZA’s multifaceted presence at the 2024 Grammys, from her triumphant Grammy wins to the surprise debut of “Saturn” in the Mastercard commercial, showcases her ability to seamlessly blend artistry, advocacy, and chart-topping success. As she continues to break records and enchant audiences, SZA remains a force to be reckoned with in the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry.