SZA Shuts Down Rumor About Frank Ocean on Her Album “Lana”
SZA isn’t one to let baseless rumors spread without setting the record straight. Following the release of her deluxe album Lana (an extension of her SOS project), a now-viral claim emerged suggesting that Frank Ocean had recorded a contribution for the album that was ultimately removed.
The rumor originated from a social media post by X (formerly Twitter) user @blondedhomer, who wrote: “Frank Ocean’s verse on SZA’s new album Lana (SOS Deluxe) was removed at the last minute.” The claim quickly gained traction, leaving fans buzzing about the possibility of an Ocean-SZA collaboration that never came to fruition.
SZA, however, swiftly debunked the claim with a fiery response: “Lmao now why would you even make this up?? Ur insane… it never existed… and don’t ever play on Frank’s name like that EVAAAA.” Her sharp rebuttal left no room for speculation, putting the false narrative to rest.
SZA and Frank Ocean: Mutual Admiration
Although this rumor was entirely unfounded, SZA has openly expressed her admiration for Frank Ocean in the past. During a Harper’s Bazaar interview alongside Kendrick Lamar, the “Kill Bill” singer revealed how Ocean’s artistry inspires her creative process.
“When I’m in the studio, it hurts too much sometimes. Maybe that’s why I tap in and pretend to be other people,” she explained. “That’s why I’m pretending to be you [Kendrick] or pretending to be Frank [Ocean] or pretending to be Future because it’s easy. It’s easier to be me through their eyes than it is to sit with some of the really harsh things that I say about myself to myself.”
This isn’t the first time fans have linked the two artists. In 2021, SZA’s supporters flooded social media with requests for Frank Ocean to join a remix of her single “Good Times.” While SZA seemed open to the idea, writing “Imma ask lol” on Instagram Stories, the collaboration never materialized.
Frank Ocean’s Elusive Presence
Frank Ocean’s career has been characterized by his selective approach to music releases and public appearances. Since his groundbreaking album Blonde in 2016, the enigmatic artist has only released two singles, “Dear April” and “Cayendo,” in 2020. Fans have been eagerly awaiting more music, but Ocean has shifted focus to other creative pursuits, including fashion and film.
In 2023, Ocean headlined Coachella, but the performance was met with mixed reviews, ultimately leading to the cancellation of his second-weekend appearance. These moments underscore the mystery that continues to surround the artist, making any association with his name a hot topic.
A Missed Opportunity
While fans might have been excited by the idea of a Frank Ocean feature on SZA’s Lana, the truth is clear: it never happened. SZA’s direct response to the rumors highlights her commitment to protecting both her artistic integrity and the reputation of an artist she deeply admires.
For now, fans of both SZA and Ocean can only hope that a real collaboration between these two icons might become a reality in the future. Until then, Lana stands on its own as another stellar chapter in SZA’s evolving discography.