SZA’s New Song “Drive” from LANA: SOS (Deluxe) Explained

SZA continues to captivate her audience with the release of her new song “Drive,” a highlight from her much-anticipated deluxe edition of SOS, titled Lana. Known for her introspective lyricism and ability to transform vulnerability into art, SZA uses “Drive” as a poignant reflection on her career, fame, and emotional struggles. To accompany the release, she delivered a striking music video directed by Bradley J. Calder, featuring actor Ben Stiller, adding another layer of narrative depth to the song.

Here’s a closer look at the lyrics, themes, and meaning behind “Drive.”

The Story Behind “Drive”

Previously teased as “Problems” on SZA’s Instagram stories earlier in 2024, “Drive” is a sonic and lyrical exploration of the complexities of success. In the song, SZA delves into the paradox of achieving her dreams while grappling with feelings of emptiness and the challenges of living up to public and personal expectations.

The track showcases SZA’s signature blend of emotional rawness and sharp lyricism. Over a stripped-down beat, she layers her confessions with a mix of vulnerability and defiance, reflecting the duality of her emotions.

Themes and Meaning

1. The Emptiness of Success

In the opening lines, SZA reflects on the toll her success has taken:

“I been up ’til up midnight, drivin’ to nowhere Bumpin’ a slow song, can’t get my head clear.”

This imagery of driving aimlessly conveys her inner turmoil despite her accomplishments. Though she’s financially successful, the void remains unfilled, as she later admits:

“And the money’s insane, I know But it don’t fill the void at all.”

SZA uses “Drive” to articulate the disconnect between public perception and personal reality, revealing the emotional costs of fame.

2. Struggles with Expectations and Authenticity

SZA confronts the pressures of maintaining her celebrity image:

“And I promised my mom I’d do better But they keep trying me so hard.”

Here, she balances personal accountability with the frustration of external demands. The line, “Sht’s so weird I cannot speak,”* illustrates how isolating it can feel to be misunderstood or judged, even when she’s at the peak of her career.

3. Defiance and Resilience

While the song explores vulnerability, SZA also reclaims her power. The lyrics in the second verse—

“And I can’t lose my focus, I know if hope is the goal Then I can’t succumb to this conquest and lose it all”

—reveal her determination to stay grounded and prioritize love and purpose over negativity. She also critiques her detractors with sharp wit, highlighting her independence and self-assurance.

The Music Video: A Cinematic Companion

The music video for “Drive” adds a layer of narrative depth, with actor Ben Stiller making a surprising appearance. Directed by Bradley J. Calder, known for his visually compelling work with artists like Justin Timberlake, the video mirrors the song’s themes of disconnection and self-discovery. The video’s road-trip aesthetic, with scenes of SZA driving through desolate landscapes, visually reinforces the feeling of searching for clarity and meaning.

The Lyrics: A Closer Look

The chorus encapsulates the central theme of the song:

“Drivin’, just drivin’ Just tryin’, just tryna get my head right Then I’ll be better when, when I When I, just gotta get my head right.”

Driving becomes a metaphor for her journey toward self-acceptance and emotional peace. The repetition of “just drivin’” suggests both the monotony and the therapeutic nature of this act, as she uses it to process her thoughts.

In the verses, SZA oscillates between introspection and unapologetic self-expression, seamlessly blending vulnerability with assertiveness. She acknowledges her struggles while refusing to let them define her.

Final Thoughts: Why “Drive” Resonates

“Drive” stands as a powerful testament to SZA’s ability to translate deeply personal experiences into universally relatable art. Through its reflective lyrics and minimalistic production, the song captures the complexities of navigating fame, personal identity, and emotional well-being. By confronting these issues head-on, SZA continues to solidify her place as one of today’s most authentic and influential artists.

The release of “Drive” not only whets fans’ appetites for the Lana deluxe edition but also reaffirms SZA’s unparalleled ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level.