SZA has officially released “Lana,” the highly anticipated deluxe edition of her successful album “SOS,” on December 20, through Top Dawg Entertainment and RCA Records. The unveiling of the deluxe edition was preceded by an Instagram teaser featuring actor Ben Stiller and a snippet of the track “Drive.”
The announcement of “Lana” was first made during a concert at Brooklyn Navy Yard in September 2023, where SZA described it as akin to a separate album containing seven to ten new songs. In a discussion with British Vogue in November, she emphasized that “Lana” and “SOS” are fundamentally different projects, stating, “I think I am making music from a more beautiful place… I’m not identifying with my brokenness.” She highlighted a transition in her music to a lighter and more uplifting perspective.
The release of “Lana” follows over two years after SZA debut with “SOS,” an album that produced five top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including the top-charting “Kill Bill.” “SOS” enjoyed significant commercial success, spending ten nonconsecutive weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard 200—an impressive feat for an R&B/hip-hop album by a female artist. The album has not only made a tremendous impact since its launch but is also a contender for the 2024 Grammy Awards, where SZA leads the nominations with nine nods, including Album of the Year.
As fans embrace “Lana,” it marks a new chapter in SZA’s artistic journey, underlining her growth and evolution as a musician. The anticipation surrounding this release showcases not just her dedicated fanbase but also the powerful connection her music has fostered with listeners. This deluxe edition serves as a celebration of SZA’s resilience and creativity, promising a refreshing and reflective listening experience.