One of my favorite albums of all time is SZA’s “CTRL.” Since the release of her sophomore album in 2017, I have seen SZA three times on tour. This album most definitely takes the cake for number one on my list.

This is a go to album for me and my friends on long car trips, while getting ready for the next night out, or during an intense game of beer pong. Many memories have been made whilst humming (or belting) a SZA tune.

The album tests the boundaries of R&B, drawing influences from trap and indie rock. I’m quaking in my boots just thinking about it. Its message is centered around helping young women dig deeper into their relationship and personal struggles, while simultaneously tackling self-confidence issues. “CTRL” delves into the modern-day relationship by speaking directly about feelings of insecurity between partners. These slow jams are raw, uplifting and guaranteed to have you singing along after a few listens.

This record serves many purposes depending on how the listener chooses to interpret it. This is the beauty of “CTRL”…

Through songs like “The Weekend,” SZA illustrates what it’s like being “the side chick”, which for some young women, is a harsh and disappointing reality. I know I’ve probably been a side piece a few times, but always unintentionally. Songs like “Normal Girl” stand as messages for woman who don’t feel ordinary, beating themselves up constantly in order to feel some form of validation. She reminds us that it’s okay not to be a ‘normal’ girl.

Although many of her words reflect heartbreak and insecurities, she doesn’t shy away from strong, empowering songs. “Doves in the Wind” is a perfect example of this. Let me tell you, SZA and Kendrick Lamar came together to create a true bada$$ bop. The song is a statement to uplift women and the power they possess, simply by being female. You’ll really understand what I’m getting at if you give it a listen.

Whether it’s a slow ballad like “20 Something,” a popular rap song like “Love Galore,” or my personal fav, “Supermodel,” “CTRL” touches on so many struggles us young ladies can relate to. Although she has been making music for quite some time now, this album is what really brought SZA into the spot light. With 5 Grammy nominations last year (getting totally duped for best new artist… change my mind I dare you), there is no doubt that this album connected with audiences across the globe. I mean my sister and her best friend even have “CTRL” tattoos on their bodies to provide evidence to this strong claim!

If you haven’t heard this album yet, I strongly recommend you run to Spotify/Apple Music/Tidal/Napster/Limewire and give it a listen. Maybe you’ll discover comfort through heartbreak or even find your new anthem. It’s all in your CTRL from here!