SZA on the cover of ‘SOS,’ her second album. (Image courtesy of RCA Records & Top Dawg Entertainment)

The SOS album by SZA is a beautiful representation of girlhood, love and feminine rage brought to light through a variety of different music styles. SZA’s soothing and melodic voice fits every genre that she creates, letting her powerful emotion pierce the heart of those listening. Jealousy, anger and heartbreak are all personified by her lyrics, exemplifying her touching poetic honesty. 

While some feel that this new album is a step down from her previous CTRL album, I firmly believe that this is her best work yet.   

SZA’s main music style is R&B, but in this album, she explores punk rock (“F2F”), rap (“Smoking on my Ex Pack”), and smooth melodies (“Kill Bill”). SZA also collaborated with other well-known artists to further promote her album, including Phoebe Bridgers, Don Toliver and Travis Scott. The different tempos and styles of music in each song represent the different emotions brought to light through love and lust.  

SOS’s songs all share the feminine perspective, which may discourage men from listening to her songs. However, SZA’s versatile beats and rhythmic singing form intricate storytelling that speaks volumes to everyone. Her words are heartfelt, and she is able to deliver personal insights through intimate tempos and smooth vocals. 

I’ve never heard another voice quite like SZA’s, and listening to it flourish in different styles throughout SOS touched me. Her tone is sweet and soothing, itching something right in my brain whenever she holds a note. 

SZA’s lyrics also include mild humor, and there’s always a phrase in every song that puts a smile on my face. She’s real and relatable, voicing what most women face in heterosexual relationships. Self-destruction and love are consistent topics that she writes about in every song, especially on this album. Men are complicated, and SZA’s SOS lends a hand to hold when facing the turmoil of a breakup, or flourishing in new love.