Strength in Vulnerability: SZA
On a profound level, emotional intelligence is the backbone of humanity, drawing us closer to understanding ourselves and others. As social beings, without genuine connection on an emotional, social, and physical level, we are deprived of happiness in an interdependent world. It may not be easy to let the external world see what is going on in the personal mind. Simply, it may be challenging to be vulnerable.
Many perceive vulnerability as submitting oneself in a position susceptible to public scrutiny based on failures, insecurities, and mistakes. Those who view vulnerability as such look to relieve themselves from misery, failing to accept these feelings and circumstances. They then enter into a cycle of numbing, where external means are used to suppress such feelings in hopes of their extinction.
Brené Brown, a self-proclaimed "research storyteller," indicates in her TedTalk that individuals cannot selectively numb emotions. Without recognition of unpleasant feelings and through numbing methods, the individual is then deprived of all the wonderful emotions, experiences, and relationships that come about as a result of this indulgence.
Brown discusses the study she conducted; she asked individuals to reveal their life stories. She witnessed something notable within the category of people she considered to be "wholehearted." These individuals all seemed to contain a deep sense of worthiness. But, then, some individuals attain a deep understanding of worthiness while such feelings are absent within others. It became apparent that those who felt the worthiest of connection dared to be imperfect. Those who exposed their genuine emotions felt pain yet found beauty in self-realization and creativity.
Music is a common outlet for emotional expression. However, the dominating industry controls music production. The artists, or rather, celebrities, remain industry figures. Celebrities are humans, despite their superhuman qualities and lifestyle. The sincere person behind this public image is often disregarded as the industry contrives a most appealing persona to a general audience. As music labels determine age, style, and musical content, the artist produces a generalized, mass-produced fashion. Although initially appealing and easily digestible, this image is not incredibly meaningful.
Simple upbeat songs have their place; however, they are as relevant as long as the next one is released, failing to reach longevity through lack of connection. The same can be said about songs that are seemingly heavier in content and sound. Ambiguous lyrics and familiar slow piano riffs can feel disingenuous, once again, arriving at a detached audience.
Contrasting with the artificially created 'celebrity,' specific artists historically and presently diverge from this ideal. One newly popular artist, SZA, directly exposes the power of vulnerability. SZA is unique in this respect since the audience can witness a stark contrast between her two released albums. Initially, SZA released an album entitled Z, which is often considered ambiguous and metaphorical. This style dramatically contrasts with her newly released album Ctrl, reaching far more success.
Ctrl is a standout album as it is brutally honest, revealing issues surrounding insecurity, infidelity, and femininity. She abandons customary lyrical structures of verse, chorus, verse, etc., and presents the lyrics in a stream of consciousness manner. Her album reviews reach the consensus that listeners connect to SZA's vulnerability. Critics and fans emphasize the relatability of her music. The connection between SZA and listeners derives from her fearless display of emotion, exposing her humanity and imperfections.
Despite circumstances, one can relate to SZA's authentic emotion. Therefore, SZA's success and loyal fan base are a testament to her sincerity, authenticity, and vulnerability. Through the example of artists such as SZA, it is essential to share oneself with others since the fear of disapproval should not deprive one of experiencing the most valuable gift of life, connection. Difficult emotions remind us of our humanity; pain is a source of creativity; and vulnerability is the origin of our purpose, human connection. From the words of poet E.E Cummings, "Exists no miracle mightier than this: to feel."