SZA made good on her promise to fans by releasing four new tracks on Sunday, just before her highly anticipated performance alongside Kendrick Lamar during the Super Bowl Halftime Show. These new additions effectively create a second deluxe edition of her critically acclaimed album SOS, which originally dropped in 2022 and earned her a Grammy. Titled Lana, this deluxe version breathes fresh life into some previously unreleased songs that have been circulating online for a couple of years now. While the tracks are technically new to official releases, they’ve been eagerly awaited by fans who’ve been listening to leaked versions. The updated Lana edition includes collaborations and solo projects, such as “Joni” featuring Don Toliver, “Take You Down,” “Open Arms (just SZA),” and “PSA.”
The release of Lana has been a long time coming, and it’s brought SOS back into the spotlight. Initially, SZA hinted that this new version would drop on January 6, but due to delays in sample clearances, it didn’t happen as planned. The album finally saw the light of day in December, reclaiming its spot at the top of the Billboard 200 albums chart for the 12th non-consecutive week. This milestone coincided with the premiere of “One of Them Days,” SZA’s debut film project where she stars alongside Keke Palmer. The timing of the album’s re-release and her film debut suggests a strategic move to maximize her momentum in the entertainment industry.
While fans were excited about the new music, some expressed frustration when the initial January 6 release date passed without any updates. One fan even called SZA “unprofessional” on social media, prompting her to respond with a mix of humor and honesty. “Cause sample clearances always happen within the preferred time frame lmao?” she wrote, adding that she “shoulda NEVER tried to give yall what u asked for. It wasn’t professional. It was KINDNESS AND A WILLINGNESS TO APPEASE u lunatics.” Her response highlights the challenges artists face in meeting fan demands while navigating the complexities of the music industry.
The Lana deluxe edition of SOS comes with an updated tracklist that includes both new and familiar songs. Among the 19 tracks, four are marked as newly added, denoted by an asterisk. These include “Joni feat. Don Toliver,” “Take You Down,” “Open Arms (just SZA),” and “PSA.” The rest of the tracklist remains the same as the original SOS album, featuring fan favorites like “Kill Bill” and “Good Days.” This blend of old and new gives listeners a fresh perspective on an album that’s already made history in SZA’s discography.
The album’s return to the top of the Billboard charts is a testament to SZA’s enduring appeal and the timeless quality of her music. SOS was a groundbreaking album that showcased her ability to blend genres and create emotionally resonant songs. With the release of Lana, she continues to evolve as an artist, experimenting with new sounds and collaborations. This approach not only satisfies her existing fanbase but also attracts new listeners who are drawn to her authenticity and creativity.
In summary, SZA’s release of the Lana deluxe edition of SOS marks a significant moment in her career. Despite initial delays, the album’s re-release has been met with enthusiasm from fans and has further cemented her status as a leading figure in contemporary music. With new tracks and a fresh perspective, Lana offers a deeper dive into SZA’s artistic vision and sets the stage for her continued success in both music and film.
