Sza Speaks Out After Cher Faces Backlash Over Luther Vandross Grammys Mix Up

During the 68th Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, Cher stepped on stage to present the Record of the Year award. As she opened the envelope, she briefly named Luther Vandross as the winner before correcting herself and announcing Kendrick Lamar and SZA. The song that won was titled Luther, a tribute to the late R&B legend, which made the mix-up understandable to many watching.

Shortly after the show, SZA addressed the moment in an interview with Entertainment Tonight. She made it clear there was no reason for anyone to be upset. According to her, the confusion actually felt natural given the meaning behind the song. She explained that Luther samples Luther Vandross and Cheryl Lynn’s 1982 classic If This World Were Mine, meaning the spirit of Vandross is already part of the track.

SZA said Cher’s reaction made sense because of the shared energy in the room and her connection to that era of music. She added that they were “mooching off what Luther already gave us” and shared how much she wished she could speak to him directly. To SZA, the moment felt more like a tribute than a mistake.

Cher, who was also receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award that night, briefly stumbled over Vandross’s last name before moving on and naming Kendrick Lamar. The moment passed quickly, but it sparked plenty of talk online.

On stage, the artists and producers behind the song made sure to keep the focus where they felt it belonged. Producer Sounwave used his acceptance speech to thank Luther Vandross right away.

Kendrick Lamar followed that tone, calling Vandross one of his favorite artists of all time. He said getting permission to use the sample felt like a gift and admitted the team was emotional when they were finally cleared to record the song.

SZA defends Cher after she accidentally announced Luther Vandross for Record of the Year at #GRAMMYs. pic.twitter.com/6GksWmTHWV

— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) February 2, 2026

Lamar explained that layering their voices over such a legendary track was their way of showing respect and trying to live up to the music that inspired them. Outside of the Grammys, both artists are having major moments.

SZA recently made her film debut in the comedy One of Them Days alongside Keke Palmer. The movie has performed well, and SZA has already earned awards buzz for her performance. She is also gaining attention for her new song with Doechii titled girl, Get Up, which has been praised as an empowering release.

Cher, meanwhile, continues to stay in the spotlight. Along with her Lifetime Achievement Grammy, reports suggest a biopic about her life is in early development, backed by producers connected to Mamma Mia!.

The Grammy moment may have started with confusion, but it ended with appreciation. SZA’s calm and thoughtful response turned it into a reminder of how deeply today’s artists still value the legends who came before them.

Have something to add? Let us know in the comments.