Lupe Fiasco Flexes Razor-Sharp Wordplay On Upcoming Self-Produced “SOS” Single

Lupe Fiasco is releasing a new track titled “SOS” on Friday (July 25), a jazzy, self-produced single that serves as a preview of his upcoming EP, Samurai DX.

Built on a smooth blend of vibraphone, upright bass and saxophone, “SOS” showcases the Chicago rapper’s lyrical dexterity and sharp wordplay.

“Recorded this out in Califo’, but feel like Dallas to a palindrome, a salad on my palette, bro/Still eat a cannibal sandwich, though, mix the poison with the antidote and terrorize the whole talent show,” Lupe raps over the laid-back instrumental.

The track is one of two new songs featured on Samurai DX, an expanded version of his 2024 album, Samurai. The project also includes “High Note” and remixes of “Samurai,” “Palaces” and “Bigfoot,” the latter now featuring a new hook by singer-songwriter Troy Tyler. The vinyl edition will include instrumental versions of all five updated tracks.

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Lupe’s original Samurai album dropped last year and was praised for its introspective tone and minimalist production. He described it as one of his “most personal projects to date.”

Outside the studio, Lupe has stayed active with performances and academic work. He wrapped his Samurai Tour last fall and performed in May at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he also teaches “Rap Theory and Practice” as a visiting professor.

That show was part of “GHOTIING MIT: Public Art,” a project blending music and visual art. Lupe recorded nine original songs on-site at various art installations across MIT’s campus, using ambient sounds and spontaneous lyrics tied to each location.

In addition to his role at MIT, Lupe joined the faculty at Johns Hopkins University’s Peabody Institute earlier this year. He’s also set to hit the road in August with Cypress Hill, Atmosphere and The Pharcyde on the Dank Daze of Summer Tour.

Samurai DX arrives August 22 via 1st & 15th/Thirty Tigers.