Fans eagerly awaiting SZA’s follow-up to 2017’s CTRL may have to wait longer, as the singer recently revealed tensions with her label, Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE). On August 19, SZA took to Twitter to address fan inquiries about her delayed album, suggesting she’s done her part.
In response to a fan asking if her relationship with TDE was “adverse” or “hostile,” she candidly replied, “BEEN hostile.” This sparked conversations about potential ongoing friction with the label.
TDE President Punch Reacts
TDE President Terrence “Punch” Henderson didn’t take SZA’s comments lightly. Responding on Twitter, he expressed his feelings about the backlash: “I am a person, and you guys are hurting my feelings. I’m gonna remember you n****s once the meet-and-greets pop off again.”
This isn’t the first time SZA and Punch have clashed publicly. Leading up to CTRL’s release in 2016, SZA declared on Twitter, “I actually quit. [Punch] can release my album if he ever feels like it. Y’all be blessed.” Although she later deleted the post, it revealed prior frustration with the label’s pace.
CTRL’s Success and Legacy
Despite delays, CTRL launched SZA into stardom, debuting at No. 3 on the US Billboard 200 and earning four Grammy nominations. The album spawned hits like “Love Galore,” “The Weekend,” and “Broken Clocks,” and was eventually certified platinum by the RIAA.
Grateful for its success, SZA reflected on the album’s achievements, including 2.3 billion streams: “I love my family. I love you all for pressing play at any time. Thank you for this journey.”
Will a New SZA Album Arrive Soon?
While fans are eager for her next project, the current tension raises questions about whether her upcoming album will face similar delays. SZA’s honesty about her challenges with TDE highlights the complexities of artist-label relationships, leaving supporters hopeful for resolution and new music.
