SZA Hits Back at ‘Ungrateful’ Fans Over Lana Deluxe Delays: “Punch Was Right”

The Grammy-winning artist calls out entitlement, addresses creative struggles, and redefines her connection with fans.

The Backlash Over Lana Deluxe

SZA has never shied away from speaking her mind, and this week, she proved it again. After promising updates to her Lana deluxe album—a follow-up to her SOS masterpiece—the delay in new tracks and remixes has stirred dissatisfaction among her fanbase.

Taking to social media on January 16, SZA delivered a sharp message to her followers:

“I used to think sharing snippets, personal info, and music teas would create connection,” she began, “but in reality, it just makes entitled people more ungrateful and disrespectful. Time to restore boundaries.”

Her frustration was palpable as she concluded: “No more explanations or updates. No back-and-forth. All follow-up questions are getting hit. Thanks.”

SZA Defends Herself Against Criticism

When one fan accused her of being dismissive, SZA didn’t hold back.

“Almost like you didn’t read that we’re waiting on sample clearances,” she snapped. “Almost like wildfires broke out where people working on this album live. Almost like you don’t care and lack insight. Almost like you were raised by animals.”

The biting response underscored her frustration with what she perceives as a lack of empathy from some corners of her fandom.

A Rift with Punch?

SZA also touched on advice she had received—and ignored—from her longtime manager, Punch. Though the two have worked together for over a decade, their professional relationship has come under scrutiny following recent tensions.

“@iamstillpunch told me to stop sharing snippets and teas,” she revealed. “I thought I understood the issue. Now I truly get it. I tried being nice and giving you more than you asked for, against Punch’s judgment. Don’t worry, that’s dead now.”

Punch responded subtly, posting a cryptic eye emoji on social media. Fans quickly speculated about the state of their partnership.

End of an Era?

While Punch’s social media bio still lists him as SZA’s manager, her recent comments suggest a significant shift. On Christmas, she hinted at their parting:

“Nothing to celebrate. An era has ended. I wish him the best in whatever he chooses.”

SZA made it clear there’s no bad blood: “And to be clear, I love Punch! NO ONE should attack or be cruel to him on my behalf. Sometimes people grow apart, and that’s okay.”

Behind-the-Scenes Challenges

SZA also shed light on complications surrounding the Lana deluxe release. The missing tracks, she explained, were tied to her collaboration with Punch.

“These are Punch’s tracks, and we talked about releasing them together before,” she explained. “Clearly, he left abruptly, so coordinating the drop has been tricky. Give me a second… they’ll be uploaded.”

Setting Boundaries, Moving Forward

SZA’s message to her fans marks a turning point in how she navigates her relationship with them. The pressure to over-deliver has taken its toll, and she’s making it clear that her boundaries are non-negotiable.

While fans await updates to Lana, SZA’s focus on self-preservation and creative freedom signals that her best work may still lie ahead—on her terms.