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Listen to SZA Cover the Goo Goo Doll’s “Iris”
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Listen to SZA Cover the Goo Goo Doll’s “Iris”

#SZA #Goo Goo Dolls #Iris #cover song #music release #alternative rock #R&B #vocal performance

📌 Key Takeaways

  • SZA released a cover of the Goo Goo Dolls' hit song "Iris".
  • The cover showcases SZA's unique vocal style and interpretation.
  • This release adds to SZA's growing catalog of musical projects.
  • The original "Iris" is a 1998 alternative rock ballad known for its popularity.
“I couldn’t stop singing it,” she said when sharing her take on the 1998 hit

🏷️ Themes

Music Cover, Artist Collaboration

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Deep Analysis

Why It Matters

This news matters because it represents a significant crossover moment between contemporary R&B and 90s alternative rock, potentially introducing both artists' work to new audiences. It affects music fans across generations, particularly those who grew up with the original 1998 hit and younger listeners discovering SZA's versatile artistry. The cover also demonstrates how iconic songs can be reinterpreted across genres and decades, keeping musical legacies alive while showcasing modern vocal techniques and production styles.

Context & Background

  • The Goo Goo Dolls' 'Iris' was originally released in 1998 as part of the 'City of Angels' soundtrack and became one of the band's most successful songs, spending nearly a year on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
  • SZA (Solána Imani Rowe) is a Grammy-winning R&B artist known for her 2022 album 'SOS' which spent 10 weeks at number one on the Billboard 200 chart.
  • Cover songs have historically served as bridges between musical eras and genres, with notable examples including Johnny Cash's cover of Nine Inch Nails' 'Hurt' and Nirvana's cover of David Bowie's 'The Man Who Sold the World'.
  • The original 'Iris' has maintained cultural relevance through streaming platforms and movie soundtrack placements, demonstrating its enduring appeal across multiple generations.

What Happens Next

Following this release, we can expect increased streaming numbers for both the cover and original versions, potential social media trends featuring the cover, possible live performances of the song during SZA's upcoming concerts, and potential discussions about other classic rock songs that could receive modern R&B interpretations. The cover may also appear on future compilation albums or soundtrack projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why would SZA choose to cover a 90s alternative rock song?

SZA likely chose 'Iris' because of its emotional resonance and melodic structure that translates well to R&B interpretation. The song's themes of vulnerability and longing align with SZA's artistic style, allowing her to put a contemporary spin on a beloved classic while showcasing her vocal range and emotional delivery.

How does this cover compare to the original version?

SZA's cover likely transforms the rock arrangement into a more atmospheric R&B production with layered vocals and modern production techniques. While maintaining the song's emotional core, she probably adds her signature vocal runs and intimate delivery style, creating a fresh interpretation that honors the original while establishing her own artistic stamp.

Will this cover be released as a single or on an album?

Based on typical music industry patterns, this cover could appear as a standalone single, part of a covers EP, or as a bonus track on a future album release. It might also be included in movie soundtracks or compilation albums, depending on the strategic planning of SZA's record label and management team.

What has been the reaction from the Goo Goo Dolls?

While specific reactions aren't mentioned in the article, artists typically respond positively to covers by respected contemporary musicians, as it introduces their work to new audiences. The Goo Goo Dolls might share the cover on social media or comment publicly, especially if they appreciate SZA's interpretation and the cross-generational exposure it provides.

Does this indicate a new musical direction for SZA?

While covers don't necessarily indicate permanent musical direction shifts, this demonstrates SZA's versatility and willingness to experiment across genres. It might influence elements of her future original work, particularly in how she approaches emotional ballads or incorporates rock influences into her R&B foundation.

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Original Source
News Listen to SZA Cover the Goo Goo Doll’s “Iris” “I couldn’t stop singing it,” she said when sharing her take on the 1998 hit By Hattie Lindert March 22, 2026 Save this story Save this story SZA has shared a new cover of the Goo Goo Dolls ’ everlasting hit “ Iris .” She paired her recording of the 1998 track, shared via Instagram, with what she described as a “deep fried” edit based off a TikTok trend where users share personal throwback photos from the 1990s. Give it a listen below. It’s been a banner year for SZA so far; 2026 kicked off with the artist earning a Grammy for Record of the Year for her Kendrick Lamar collab “ Luther .” Last month, she also contributed an original song, “ Save the Day ,” to the soundtrack for Pixar’s Hoppers . SZA released her most recent album, SOS , in 2023, and followed it up with a deluxe version featuring four new songs—an updated version of “Joni” featuring Don Toliver, “Take You Down,” “PSA,” and “Open Arms (Just SZA)”—dubbed SOS Deluxe: Lana , in 2025. Revisit Pitchfork’s Sunday Review of “ Iris. ” Instagram content
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