SZA commemorated the fifth anniversary of her iconic debut album, Ctrl, with the release of a deluxe edition. This expanded version features seven additional tracks, including unreleased material and past SoundCloud favorites, giving fans a deeper dive into the introspective and emotional world she created between 2014 and 2017. The deluxe edition also boasts new cover art, adding a fresh visual touch to this celebrated album.
Bonus Tracks Add Depth to Ctrl
The additional songs showcase SZA’s versatility and raw emotion, featuring highlights such as:
- “Jodie”, produced by Tyler, The Creator.
- “Miles”, which continues the album’s themes of vulnerability.
- An alternate version of “Love Galore”, where SZA replaces Travis Scott with her own verse.
- The soulful “Percolator”, delving deeper into anxiety and trust issues.
- “2AM,” a sultry reinterpretation of PARTYNEXTDOOR and Drake’s “Come and See Me.”
While these tracks aren’t technically “new,” as SZA noted on Twitter, they capture the creative energy of her early Ctrl sessions, providing fans with a fuller picture of her artistry during that period.
The Legacy of Ctrl
Originally released on June 9, 2017, Ctrl was a game-changer for SZA and the R&B genre. The album debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 and earned widespread critical acclaim. With collaborations featuring Kendrick Lamar, Travis Scott, and Isaiah Rashad, the project received five Grammy nominations in 2018, including Best Urban Contemporary Album and Best R&B Song. It has since been certified double platinum, cementing its status as a modern classic.
What’s Next for SZA?
Fans have eagerly awaited SZA’s sophomore album, and the wait seems to be nearing its end. In a May 2022 interview with Vogue, the singer teased that her follow-up album was finally ready, promising a “SZA Summer.”
The upcoming project will feature hit singles like “Hit Different” with Ty Dolla $ign, “Good Days,” and “I Hate U.” Both Good Days and I Hate U cracked the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, building excitement for what’s to come.
A Celebration of Growth and Artistry
The Ctrl deluxe edition isn’t just a gift to fans; it’s a celebration of SZA’s journey from rising talent to R&B powerhouse. With a new album on the horizon, this milestone reinforces her place as a defining voice in music.
