SZA has officially released her highly anticipated deluxe edition of the album SOS, titled Lana, on December 20, under Top Dawg Entertainment and RCA Records. This release comes after weeks of excitement and speculation.
Earlier this week, SZA shared a teaser for Lana on Instagram, featuring actor Ben Stiller and giving fans a sneak peek of one of the tracks called “Drive.” The name Lana was first introduced during a performance at the Brooklyn Navy Yard back in September 2023, where SZA described the deluxe version as akin to a new album comprising seven to ten songs planned for release in the fall.
In a November interview with British Vogue, SZA elaborated on the significance of Lana, emphasizing that it represents her evolution as an artist. “I am making music from a more beautiful place,” she explained, distancing herself from previous angsty themes. By acknowledging her past experiences without letting them define her, SZA suggests a shift toward a lighter, more optimistic musical expression.
This deluxe release comes more than two years after the original SOS album, which was a monumental success. The 23-track album produced five top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including the chart-topping “Kill Bill.” SOS achieved significant commercial success, spending a remarkable ten weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. This record represents the longest run for an R&B/hip-hop album by a female artist since Mariah Carey’s debut in 1991.
SZA’s impact on the music scene over the past years has been profound, and her work on SOS has solidified her status as an influential artist. With nine nominations at the upcoming 2024 Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year and Best Progressive R&B Album, SZA is poised to continue to shape the future of music.
The release of Lana signals an exciting new chapter for SZA, allowing her fans to experience her growth and transformation as an artist. The anticipation surrounding this album showcases her ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level.
In summary, SZA’s Lana not only expands her already successful SOS album but also marks a new and optimistic phase in her musical journey. Fans are eagerly encouraged to listen to Lana and delve into the new sounds she has to offer.