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SZA opened up in her new GQ cover story about choosing not to get involved in two recent, high-profile rap clashes. The singer has close personal and professional ties to both Kendrick Lamar and Drake — who publicly feuded last year — but said she saw no reason to insert herself into their conflict.
“That was between two grown men,” she told GQ, explaining that while she loves and respects both artists, the situation wasn’t hers to comment on. SZA co-headlined a stadium tour with Lamar and is signed to Top Dawg Entertainment, but also has a longstanding friendship and collaborative history with Drake. She continued performing songs connected to both artists during that time, including “Not Like Us” at Lamar’s Super Bowl Halftime Show appearance and “Rich Baby Daddy” on her Grand National Tour.
However, SZA acknowledged a second situation that was harder to ignore: when Nicki Minaj began publicly taking shots at her online this summer. Minaj directed a series of comments at SZA while feuding with other industry figures, including former associates of SZA’s label team. SZA says she was confused by being dragged into it, emphasizing that she has no personal relationship with Minaj or history of tension.
“There’s no story there,” she said. “I don’t know her. It felt random.” Ultimately, SZA said she stepped back rather than continue engaging, prioritizing her own peace.