Steve Lacy and SZA Unveil Collaborative Single “Is It Cool?” Amid New Album Release Plans

Steve Lacy and SZA have released their new collaborative single, “Is It Cool?,” featuring candid lyrics that explore themes of vulnerability and self-sabotage, according to multiple music outlets. The track marks a departure from previous collaborations, blending Lacy’s introspective storytelling with SZA’s emotive delivery.

What Is “Is It Cool?” and How Does It Fit Into Steve Lacy’s New Album?

The single, described as a “trailer” for Lacy’s upcoming album *Oh Yeah?*, was teased in August 2025 during an interview with *Rolling Stone*. Lacy revealed the album, set for release on July 17, 2025, via RCA Records, would focus on “transparency and personal lyrics.” The track’s candid verses, including Lacy’s admission of “cheat[ing] every now and again,” reflect the album’s thematic direction. “I feel safe enough and close enough to start talking about it now,” Lacy said, adding that he typically avoids announcing projects until they are complete.

How Does SZA’s Verse Contribute to the Track’s Tone?

SZA’s contribution to “Is It Cool?” contrasts Lacy’s self-critical tone with a more playful, intimate approach. Her lyrics, “Being vulnerable is exhausting, babe/Can we get naked instead of talking, babe?” highlight the track’s duality, juxtaposing emotional honesty with a desire for escapism.

What Are Steve Lacy’s Plans for Promoting the New Album?

To support *Oh Yeah?*, Lacy has announced a series of tour dates across Asia this summer, including headlining slots at the Summer Sonic and Lalala festivals. The tour follows the release of “Nice Shoes,” a single that previewed the album’s “new sonic territory,” as Lacy described to *Rolling Stone*. The musician, known for his work on the Grammy-winning 2022 album *Gemini Rights*, has emphasized his commitment to “making things” as a creative process, a habit he began shortly after his previous album’s release.

Why Is This Collaboration Significant for Both Artists?

The partnership between Lacy and SZA, both prominent figures in modern R&B and alternative music, underscores a trend of cross-genre collaborations in 2025. Their previous work together, including Lacy’s feature on SZA’s 202