Unheard Rock Music: The Untold Story Of Lizzo, SZA, And A Third Artist

Henrik Larsen

5 min read

Post on May 04, 2025

4.5

Share

Lizzo's Unexpected Rock Roots

Lizzo's infectious energy and undeniable charisma are undeniable, but beneath the pop and hip-hop beats lie surprising rock influences. Her musical evolution reveals a deep appreciation for the raw power and emotional intensity often associated with rock music. Analyzing Lizzo's rock influence requires examining both her early musical experiences and the subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) rock elements woven into her current work.

• Early Musical Experiences: While Lizzo's journey is deeply rooted in classical training, her early exposure to diverse genres undoubtedly shaped her eclectic style. The energy of rock concerts and the raw emotionality of rock vocals likely left an impression, providing a foundation for her powerful stage presence.

• Prominent Rock Elements in Lizzo's Music: Listen closely to tracks like "Juice" and "Good as Hell," and you'll detect powerful, driving drum patterns reminiscent of classic rock anthems. The overall energy and confidence exuded in her performances also mirror the attitude often associated with rock music. Moreover, her use of heavy bass lines adds a further layer of rock influence.

• Intertwining Genres: Lizzo masterfully blends her rock influences with pop, R&B, and hip-hop. This fusion creates a unique soundscape that’s both danceable and emotionally resonant. The raw power of rock enhances the already powerful message in her lyrics, providing a dynamic backdrop to her empowering themes.

• Potential Rock Influences: While she hasn't explicitly named specific rock artists as direct influences, the energetic drive and powerful vocal delivery suggest potential inspiration from artists known for their powerful stage presence and iconic rock sounds.

• Bullet Points:

  • "Truth Hurts" features a driving beat that echoes the energy of many rock anthems.
  • The guitar riffs in "Cuz I Love You" add a layer of complexity and intensity.
  • The overall sonic landscape of Cuz I Love You (Deluxe) album demonstrates a dynamic range that could be considered to touch on elements of alternative rock.

SZA's Subversive Rock Undercurrents

SZA’s music is a captivating blend of R&B, soul, and alternative sounds. While primarily known for her introspective R&B, closer examination reveals subtle yet significant rock undercurrents. Her music showcases a raw emotional intensity and a willingness to experiment with sound that resonates deeply with the spirit of rock.

• Unique Blend of Genres: SZA's sound is unique precisely because of its refusal to be categorized. This refusal to adhere to genre conventions allows for the seamless incorporation of rock elements that enhance the overall texture of her work.

• Subtle Rock Elements: SZA utilizes distorted guitars and powerful vocals, lending a gritty edge to her otherwise soulful compositions. These elements aren't always upfront but contribute significantly to the overall emotional impact of her songs.

• SZA's Statements on Rock: While direct statements from SZA about her rock influences are scarce, the raw emotion and powerful delivery in her music speak volumes. Her willingness to experiment and push boundaries reflects a rebellious spirit often associated with rock musicians.

• Emotional Intensity and Raw Energy: The emotional depth and raw energy in SZA's music strongly align with the emotional core of rock music. This combination creates a listening experience that is both intimate and intensely powerful.

• Bullet Points:

  • "Kill Bill" features a driving beat and powerful vocals that evoke rock's energy.
  • The guitar work in "Good Days" adds texture and depth to the song's melancholic melody.
  • The overall atmosphere of Ctrl suggests a clear influence from 90's alternative rock artists.

Florence + The Machine's Epic Rock Soundscapes

Florence + The Machine’s music is characterized by its epic scale, powerful vocals, and dramatic storytelling, all hallmarks of classic rock. Their sound is an orchestral masterpiece that seamlessly integrates the raw emotion and energy of rock with the grandeur of classical music.

• Orchestral Rock: Florence + The Machine expertly blend orchestral arrangements with powerful vocals and anthemic melodies, creating a sound that is both sweeping and intensely personal. This combination creates a listening experience that is as theatrical as it is emotionally engaging.

• Powerful Vocals and Instrumentation: Florence Welch’s powerful vocals are a driving force behind the band’s sound. Her delivery, combined with the band's dynamic instrumentation, creates a rock-influenced experience that is both captivating and unforgettable.

• Classic and Alternative Rock Influences: Their music draws clear inspiration from both classic and alternative rock artists. This influence is evident in their song structures, dramatic arrangements, and overall theatrical presentation.

• Theatrical Performances: Florence + The Machine’s live performances are known for their theatrical grandeur and emotional intensity, further solidifying their connection to the dramatic traditions of rock music.

• Bullet Points:

  • "Dog Days Are Over" is a prime example of their anthemic rock sound.
  • "Shake It Out" demonstrates the band's ability to blend orchestral elements with powerful rock instrumentation.
  • Ceremonials showcases a clear influence from artists such as PJ Harvey and early Kate Bush.

Conclusion

This exploration revealed the often-overlooked rock influences present in the music of Lizzo, SZA, and Florence + The Machine. By examining their unique soundscapes, we've seen how these artists expertly blend seemingly disparate genres to craft original and powerful music. Their embrace of unexpected rock elements adds layers of depth and complexity, enriching their already vibrant musical palettes. Discover more about the unheard rock music shaping your favorite artists. Dive deeper into the musical influences of Lizzo, SZA, and Florence + The Machine and uncover the hidden rock sounds within your favorite artists – you might be surprised at what you discover!