SZA revealed that she owes half of her publishing rights for the title track of her acclaimed album SOS to Beyoncé. This acknowledgment stems from the interpolation of Beyoncé’s song “Listen” within SZA’s track. SZA expressed her gratitude, noting that Beyoncé never pressed her over the matter, referring to her as a “generous QUEEN.”
The Art of Interpolation in ‘SOS’ and Its Impact on Publishing Rights
The opening track of SOS is rich with musical references, including an interpolation of Beyoncé’s “Listen” from the 2006 film Dreamgirls. Interpolation involves re-recording a melody or portion of a previously recorded song rather than directly sampling the original audio. This practice requires appropriate licensing and often results in shared publishing credits. In this case, the interpolation led to Beyoncé receiving half of the track’s publishing rights.
Additionally, the song samples “Until I Found the Lord (My Soul Couldn’t Rest)” by the Gabriel Hardeman Delegation showcasing SZA’s ability to blend diverse musical elements into her work.
‘SOS’ Achieves Historic Milestones on the Billboard 200 Chart
Released in December 2022, SOS marked SZA’s first number-one album on the Billboard 200 chart. The album debuted at the top spot and maintained its position for multiple weeks, a feat not achieved by a Black female artist since Beyoncé’s self-titled album in 2013.
The album’s success continued well into 2024, with SOS becoming the first album by a Black female artist to spend 60 weeks in the top 10 of the Billboard 200 chart. The project’s longevity is a testament to its widespread acclaim and SZA’s growing influence in the music industry.
Beyoncé’s Influence and Generosity in the Music Industry
Beyoncé’s impact on contemporary artists is undeniable, and her willingness to share publishing rights without contention speaks volumes about her character. SZA’s acknowledgment of this generosity highlights the supportive relationships that can exist within the music industry, especially among Black female artists who continue to break barriers and set new standards.
The Significance of Artistic Collaboration and Respect
SZA’s revelation about the publishing rights for “SOS” offers insight into the complexities of music production and the importance of honoring artistic influences. Her transparency sheds light on the collaborative nature of the industry and the respect shared among artists. As SOS continues to resonate with audiences, the story behind its creation adds another layer to its rich narrative.
