Why SZA Named ‘Ctrl’ Song After Drew Barrymore

During an appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show on Monday (Jan. 13), SZA got the chance to explain to Drew herself why the song is named after her. “It was inspired by you, it wasn’t just the title,” SZA shared in a clip from the interview as Drew listened closely. “The energy you carry.”

“The carefree, the understanding,” SZA continued, holding hands with Drew. “I wrote you this letter that I never sent, but it talked about how, as a young Black woman, there weren’t always a lot of examples to look up to. You were one of the few white women on TV that I admired so much because you were always just yourself.”

“You were quirky,” SZA added. “Your smile wasn’t perfect. I had a slight speech impediment … I loved the way you talked and how you you were. It reminded me of all the things I was self-conscious about, but on you, those same things shined so brightly. It gave me permission to just be me.”

SZA’s debut album Ctrl came out in 2017, along with the music video for “Drew Barrymore.” In it, Drew makes a quick cameo, walking by SZA during a quiet, reflective moment and giving her a warm, reassuring smile.

“We did the music video, and I was just so excited to show up for you,” Drew said during Monday’s episode. SZA responded, “I couldn’t believe you did that.”

In a 2017 interview with Billboard, SZA praised Drew, saying, “She’s so casual. There’s nothing more beautiful than someone who’s comfortable being themselves but still full of energy and good vibes. That’s her. She’s chill, confident, but also shy. When I wrote the song, I pictured moments of seeing her.”