SZA slides throughout the highly-anticipated “LANA.”
STREAM
TOP 3
3. Diamond Boy (DTM)
When do we know we’re doing too much for a crush/partner?
“Diamond Boy (DTM)” delves into SZA’s deep devotion to her partner, capturing the all-consuming nature of love. As in many of her songs, SZA questions herself, wondering if she’s “doing too much” for this person. By the end, she fully embraces her obsessive, glorifying tendencies as an expression of her love language.
SZA’s vocals in “Diamond Boy (DTM)” are outstanding, beautifully complemented by the romantic feel of the R&B instrumental, making it an absolute joy to listen to.
2. What Do I Do
SZA asks herself what to do when her partner cheats.
The beat and melody attached to this song are instantly captivating, drawing you in from the start. SZA’s soft vocals perfectly complement the bass-driven melody, creating a sensual vibe that makes you want to move along with the rhythm. “What Do I Do” explores the emotional turmoil and confusion that come with discovering a partner’s infidelity. SZA captures the heartbreaking conflict of wanting to give up on the relationship but struggling to let go due to deep love and shared history. Her relatable lyricism makes the track both profoundly moving and undeniably enjoyable.
1. Scorsese Baby Daddy
SZA begs for love even when it hurts.
“Scorsese Baby Daddy” tells the story of a relationship steeped in toxicity, yet SZA finds herself yearning for this person despite the chaos. She’s willing to overlook the red flags in pursuit of a deep connection. The dramatic events and emotions are vividly captured through her poignant lyricism, while the upbeat production adds a contrastingly lighter vibe to the track, making it both emotionally layered and sonically captivating.
SONG-BY-SONG RATING
RGM RATING
(A-) (94%)
SZA has cemented her place as one of the most celebrated artists in contemporary R&B, known for her tender, emotional vocals and introspective, poetic lyricism. Her sophomore album, SOS, showcased raw emotions through themes of heartbreak, self-reflection, empowerment, and her “crazy ex” era. Now, with her deluxe album LANA, SZA takes it a step further, offering 15 new tracks that delve deeper into her emotional world. This extended version gives a fresh perspective on life, love, and self, highlighting her growth and evolution since the original album’s release.