SZA's New Album Lana: Everything We Know So Far

SZA's "Lana" album has been a mystery, but she posted cover art with a "Parental Advisory" sticker, hinting at a release soon.

SZA's highly anticipated upcoming album, tentatively titled "Lana," has been the subject of much speculation and excitement since its inception. Originally conceived as a deluxe edition of her critically acclaimed album "SOS," the project has since taken on a life of its own, with the singer hinting at new material and a distinct identity for "Lana."

The latest development came on Sunday night when SZA shared what appears to be the cover artwork for the release, complete with the familiar "Parental Advisory" sticker. While the specifics of the album, including the tracklist and confirmed songs, remain shrouded in mystery, the singer has provided some insight into the project in recent interviews.

In August, SZA described "Lana" as a collection of outtakes from "SOS," along with new material, adding, "It's like a whole new project." She revealed that the album's title is a nod to her first tattoo, which she got at the age of 13, and it holds sentimental value as her nickname.

The discussion around the album intensified when SZA addressed the leaked song "Joni," hinting at its potential inclusion on "Lana" despite the premature release. She also reflected on the impact of leaks on artists and their creative process.

During a performance in September, SZA confirmed that "Lana" would be a standalone album, separate from "SOS," featuring seven to ten songs and set for release in the fall. She also debuted unreleased tracks, further fueling anticipation for the project.

In a subsequent interview in November, SZA delved deeper into the concept of "Lana," expressing her initial intention for the album to be a more subdued follow-up to her previous work. However, she acknowledged that the project had taken on a life of its own and might evolve into a full-fledged album release.

The singer grappled with the idea of artistic consistency versus carefree experimentation, drawing inspiration from iconic artists like Beyoncé, Frank Ocean, and Andre 3000. She emphasized the importance of creative freedom and spontaneity in her music-making process.

As of now, no official release date or tracklist has been confirmed for "Lana," leaving fans eagerly awaiting its arrival. The album remains a tantalizing enigma, promising new sonic experiences and further showcasing SZA's evolution as an artist. Until then, the anticipation continues to build for what is sure to be a groundbreaking addition to her discography.