Since emerging from relative obscurity in the early 2010s, Sia has consistently confounded expectations, evolving from a behind-the-scenes ghostwriter to a globally recognized pop icon. The question "does Sia still make music" is one that frequently arises among fans who remember the seismic cultural impact of "Chandelier" and "Cheap Thrills" but have noticed a distinct shift in her public presence. The simple answer is a definitive yes, but the reality of her current artistic output is more nuanced, reflecting a deliberate pivot toward film scoring, high-profile collaborations, and a conscious withdrawal from the relentless spotlight of pop superstardom.
The Transition from Pop Stardom to Film Scoring
To understand the current state of Sia's music career, one must acknowledge the significant evolution of her artistic identity. While she undoubtedly released music throughout the 2010s, the trajectory shifted dramatically after the peak of her mainstream success. Rather than retreating entirely, she redirected her formidable talent toward composing original scores for major motion pictures. This move represents a natural progression for an artist who has always treated music as a vehicle for storytelling, and it has kept her creatively active in a very public, albeit different, capacity.
A Focus on Film and Visual Media
Sia's work in film has become a central pillar of her recent output, demonstrating a mastery of a different musical language. She composed the score for the acclaimed 2017 musical drama "A Star Is Born," starring Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper, which showcased her ability to craft sweeping, emotional orchestral pieces. This was followed by the score for "Music," the 2021 film she also wrote and directed, further cementing her role as a composer. More recently, her contributions to projects like "The Greatest Showman" and "The Color Purple" highlight her sustained activity in creating music for the screen, proving her creative engine is running hotter than ever, just in a different venue.
Collaborations and Selective Vocal Appearances
While Sia has largely stepped back from being the sole vocalist on mainstream pop tracks, she has not abandoned performing or recording altogether. Her voice remains a highly sought-after commodity, and she frequently appears as a featured artist on tracks by other major producers and DJs. These collaborations allow her to contribute her distinctive vocal stylings without shouldering the full weight of a solo pop campaign. This selective approach keeps her music present in the contemporary soundscape while respecting her desire for a more private life.
High-profile DJ collaborations, such as her feature on David Guetta's "Titanium," remain touchstones of her vocal work in the electronic music space.
She has contributed vocals to tracks by artists like Kanye West and various electronic acts, demonstrating her versatility and continued relevance as a featured performer.
These collaborations are often strategic and infrequent, aligning with her preference for quality over quantity in her musical output.
The "Chandelier" Legacy and Its Impact
The enduring legacy of "Chandelier" cannot be overstated, as it continues to define Sia's public perception for many listeners. The song's massive success created an almost impossible standard for any subsequent solo material, potentially contributing to a perceived slowdown in traditional single releases. However, this iconic status provides a unique platform; her name remains a household word, ensuring that any new music she does release—whether a film score snippet or a rare vocal feature—receives significant attention. The longevity of her biggest hit acts as a constant reminder of her talent, keeping the question of her current activity alive.
