Acclaimed singer SZA has expressed her frustration and anger over unauthorized leaks of her music, particularly tracks from her forthcoming deluxe version of "SOS," titled "Lana," set to release in 2024. The artist took to Twitter/X to voice her outrage, equating the leaks to theft and vowing to pursue legal action against those responsible.
"LEAKING MY MUSIC IS STEALING. THIS IS MY JOB," SZA tweeted in a passionate declaration. "THIS IS MY LIFE AND MY INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY. YOU ARE A FUCKING THIEF AND I PROMISE TO PUT MAXIMUM ENERGY INTO HOLDING EVERYONE ACCOUNTABLE TO THE FULL EXTENT OF THE LAW. I AM TIRED."
SZA's stance on leaks isn't new. In an interview with Variety, she lamented the impact of unauthorized releases on her creative process. "When people leak my songs, they ruin them," she explained. "Then it's not mine anymore; it's actually yours. It's something unfinished that you decided was ready to be shared." The artist emphasized that leaks not only compromise her work but also push her into a "weird space creatively," potentially deterring her from releasing the compromised tracks.
Despite the setbacks caused by leaks, SZA has been teasing her fans with glimpses of what to expect from "Lana." She recently shared six distinct album cover art variations on Instagram, showcasing her creative vision for the project. The visuals range from her posing in a tent with a yellow noose to standing in a field with her hair transformed into lush greenery, reminiscent of her debut album "Ctrl."
The different cover arts also portray SZA in various settings and outfits, from a pig pen to a farm holding a horse, adding layers of intrigue and anticipation for the upcoming album. However, the exact release date for "Lana" remains under wraps as of now.
As the music industry continues to grapple with the issue of leaks and their impact on artists, SZA's vocal opposition highlights the personal and professional toll such incidents can take. With her commitment to holding the perpetrators accountable and her continued dedication to her art, SZA's journey with "Lana" is a testament to the resilience of artists in the face of adversity and the importance of respecting intellectual property in the digital age. Fans and the industry alike await the official release, ready to support the artist's vision in its intended, complete form.