SZA’s “Iris” Cover: A Glimpse into the Future of Music Trends
SZA’s recent cover of the Goo Goo Dolls’ “Iris,” shared via Instagram and accompanied by a “deep fried” aesthetic nod to a popular TikTok trend, isn’t just a captivating musical moment. It’s a microcosm of several converging trends reshaping the music industry – the resurgence of 90s nostalgia, the power of TikTok-driven virality and the continued dominance of artist collaborations.
The 90s Are Back (Again) – And Artists Are Listening
The late 90s are experiencing a significant cultural revival. From fashion to film, and now music, the era is resonating with younger audiences discovering it for the first time and older audiences revisiting familiar comforts. SZA’s choice of “Iris” is a prime example. The song, originally released in 1998, remains instantly recognizable and emotionally resonant. This trend isn’t isolated. artists are increasingly looking to reinterpret classics, introducing them to new generations.
Pro Tip: For musicians, identifying and reimagining iconic songs from past decades can be a powerful strategy for attracting attention and broadening your audience.
TikTok’s Continued Influence on Music Discovery
TikTok has fundamentally altered how music is discovered and consumed. The platform’s short-form video format and algorithm-driven “For You” page have the power to turn obscure tracks into global hits overnight. SZA’s use of a TikTok-inspired visual style – the “deep fried” edit – demonstrates an understanding of this dynamic. The platform isn’t just a promotional tool; it’s becoming integral to the creative process itself.
The TikTok post featuring the song garnered significant attention, highlighting the platform’s ability to amplify an artist’s reach. This represents further evidenced by the trend itself, where users share personal throwback photos, creating a sense of community and shared nostalgia.
The Power of Collaboration: SZA and Kendrick Lamar
SZA’s success in 2026 is built, in part, on strategic collaborations. She earned a Grammy for Record of the Year for “Luther,” her collaboration with Kendrick Lamar. This isn’t a new phenomenon, but the frequency and impact of artist pairings are increasing. Collaborations allow artists to tap into each other’s fan bases, experiment with new sounds, and elevate their creative output.
Her recent work also includes contributing to film soundtracks, such as the original song “Save the Day” for Pixar’s Hoppers, demonstrating a diversification of revenue streams and audience engagement.
Deluxe Albums and Extended Releases: A New Normal?
SZA’s release strategy – following up her 2023 album SOS with the deluxe version SOS Deluxe: Lana in 2025 – reflects a growing trend in the music industry. Deluxe albums offer artists a way to extend the lifespan of a successful album, providing fans with additional content and maintaining momentum. This approach allows for continued engagement and revenue generation beyond the initial album release.
Looking Ahead: What These Trends Mean for the Future
These trends – nostalgia, TikTok virality, collaboration, and extended releases – are likely to continue shaping the music landscape. Artists who can effectively leverage these forces will be best positioned for success. Expect to witness more reinterpretations of classic songs, increased integration of social media into the creative process, and a continued emphasis on artist partnerships.
FAQ
Q: What is “deep fried” editing?
A: It’s a TikTok trend involving heavily distorted and visually altered images or videos, often evoking a nostalgic, low-resolution aesthetic.
Q: How important is TikTok for musicians?
A: Extremely important. It’s a powerful platform for music discovery, promotion, and building a fanbase.
Q: What is a deluxe album?
A: A re-release of an album with additional tracks, remixes, or bonus content.
Did you know? SZA’s album SOS was initially released in 2023, demonstrating a consistent output of high-quality music.
Want to stay up-to-date on the latest music industry trends? Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive insights and analysis.
