After years of speculation, SZA finally released “LANA,” the deluxe edition of the Grammy-winning album “SOS.” Packed with 15 brand-new tracks, “LANA” takes listeners on a captivating journey through SZA’s world.
In classic SZA fashion, the lead-up to “LANA’s” release was anything but conventional. When SZA posted a video on Instagram of her in the middle of the forest peeing on the ground—a cheeky and literal hint that “LANA” was about to drop—fans’ excitement skyrocketed. If that wasn’t enough to ignite people’s anticipation, just days later she shared another clip with Ben Stiller, an American actor and comedian who was dramatically lip-syncing to the new track “Drive.” With her Instagram bio confirming the long-awaited release date of December 20, 2024, SZA had fans hooked, counting down the days to what promised to be an unforgettable musical experience.
However, SZA’s release was not drama-free. After promising “LANA” would drop at midnight on a Friday, SZA kept fans waiting for an extra 15 hours as she made last-minute tweaks to ensure the album satisfied her vision. The delay was an unprecedented and frustrating curveball for fans eagerly refreshing their Spotify or Apple Music. Sophomore Naomi Herman said, “I was annoyed by SZA’s late release because she promised that she’d release it, and I was waiting all day.”
Despite the initial frustration of a delayed release, fans quickly forgave SZA once “LANA” finally dropped, rewarding their patience with the raw emotional depth and lyrical brilliance they’ve come to expect from her.
The album opens with “No More Hiding” and “What Do I Do,” two evocative tracks that set the stage for an introspective journey through vulnerability, love, and self-discovery themes. These songs establish a reflective and immersive tone, drawing listeners into SZA’s raw emotion and personal storytelling world.
A standout moment comes with the album’s sole duet, “30 for 30,” featuring Kendrick Lamar. The collaboration extends their history of electrifying pairings, including SZA’s contributions to Lamar’s “GNX” and his features on her albums “Ctrl” and “Z.” With the duo recently announcing a joint tour, they continue to solidify their reputation as an unstoppable force in the modern music industry.
“I think they’re the best duo out there,” junior Sam Micheli said. “Their voices complement each other so well, and the way she fits into his music is incredible. Together, they create a unique blend of genres that I love.”
The rest of “LANA” didn’t disappoint, offering a mix of familiar and new sounds highlighting SZA’s artistic versatility. Tracks like “Crybaby” showcased some of the best songwriting on the album, pairing emotional depth with her impressive vocal range. Meanwhile, “BMF” (Boy from South Detroit) took a bold pop direction distinct from the rest of the album’s R&B songs. These tracks underscored SZA’s ability to experiment with her music while staying true to who she is as an artist.
Meanwhile, songs like “Another Life” and “Kitchen” explored themes of heartbreak and self-discovery. “Another Life” has become a rising sensation on TikTok. Its raw honesty and emotional depth have made it a favorite among fans, many of whom relate to the song’s theme of personal growth.
“When first listening to the album, I really liked ‘Another Life,’” senior Avery Cobb said. “After I saw that it was gaining popularity on TikTok, I got worried that the trend would ruin the song for me. So far, it hasn’t, and ‘Another Life’ is still on my playlist.”
Another standout track is “Scorsese Baby Daddy,” which delivers a genre-defying sound that blends playful lyricism with SZA’s trademark vulnerability. This quirky title and infectious beat may seem lighthearted, but the song quickly dives into the meaning of complex relationships and identity. With its mix of humor and deeper meaning, “Scorsese Baby Daddy” adds another layer to the album, showcasing SZA’s ability to push musical boundaries while staying true to her unique sound.
The remaining tracks on “LANA” further cement SZA’s reputation as a bold and captivating artist, consistently pushing the boundaries of her sound while staying true to her emotional authenticity. While “LANA” builds upon the foundation of “SOS,” it stands out as its distinctive album. Unlike traditional deluxe versions of albums, which often include a handful of afterthoughts or throwaway tracks, SZA redefined this concept with “LANA,” challenging the expectations of a deluxe album and offering a transformative music experience. Sophomore Naomi Herman said, “SZA has done it again. She keeps making music that leaves fans on the edge of their seats and never fails to disappoint.”
