SZA Stuns in Bold Shredded Dress at BMI R&B Hip-Hop Awards

On Thursday night, SZA was honored with the Champion Award “in honor of her dedication to fostering the next generation of music creators.” Although the tribute was especially meaningful for the chart-topping singer from humble beginnings, SZA’s look might’ve stolen the show entirely. The 34-year-old wore a ruffled pink dress covered in cutouts and giant roses.

The BMI R&B Hip-Hop Awards recognizes songwriters, producers, and music published in the R&B and hip-hop genres. SZA‘s award was especially notable as it was the first-ever Champion Award in the BMI Awards’ 24-year history. She also earned Songwriter of the Year and Song of the Year for “Kill Bill,” the latter with co-songwriters Rob Bisel and Carter Lang.

At LA’s Fairmont Century Plaza, SZA accepted her award in a bubblegum pink criss-cross halter dress. The romantic piece, subtly lined in lace, featured cutouts across her chest, stomach, back, and right thigh. The “All the Stars” singer shared an Instagram story of her pre-event photoshoot. She posed in the dress, which had giant pink and green rosettes pinned to her chest and hips. The ruffled hemline of the piece was giving shredded vibes as it cascaded to her feet.

SZA wore her hair in loose waves to her chest. Her makeup team gave her glowing skin, a rich blush, and pink lips lined in a deep rose. They added champagne highlighter to the inner corners of her eyes for a strong pop. The “Snooze” singer wore silver bangles and rings. She walked in towering stiletto heels covered in crystals and bejeweled flowers à la fairy garden.

As SZA received her award, the “Kiss Me More” singer explained, “I just make music however I feel and pray that it connects. And if it does, I’m super thankful.” SZA’s fans certainly connect to her dynamic tunes. While growing up in New Jersey, her parents exposed her to many musical influences and genres, reports Variety. As SZA told Variety, her mom appreciated church music and R&B. Her dad listened to Billie Holiday, John Coltrane, and Miles Davis, and her sister loved hip-hop music from Tupac Shakur.

In addition to SZA, reports Variety, Babyface took home a huge honor in the BMI Icon Award, which celebrated his remarkable talent and songwriting contributions to decades of hits across genres. This recognition brings the “Whip Appeal” singer’s total BMI awards to 64. While accepting his award, Babyface stated, “I only know that I got here because I love music, and it was the one pure thing that I knew that I could do, and I did it with all my heart. If you do it from the heart, that’s the main thing that keeps you going.”