Frank Ocean's Channel Orange

Frank Ocean is an artist that could define a generation.

Surprising fans, Ocean brought forward the release date of his second album (and debut studio album) by a week, meaning it available to purchase now. As a testament to his meteoric rise in popularity due to his alliance with OFWGKTA and appearances on Watch The Throne, Channel Orange currently sits happily at the top of the iTunes chart. This is a deserved feat for the New Orleans singer, and sometimes, rapper.

Frank Ocean doesn’t just break boundaries on a sonic level, with his recognisable brand of smooth, thoughtful and mature R&B, but also as a character. Being a member of red-hot rap clique, Odd Future, he is bound to have an enigma, and preconceptions, attached to him. However, Ocean could be described as the countertype of the average R&B star. He speaks in wise, eloquent fashion and carries himself very well during interviews, often giving meaningful insight into his artistic output.

But, the most ground-breaking side to Ocean was only revealed a few days ago. Via a message on his blog (read here), the singer came out as gay, making him the first current black R&B star to do so. This letter, written with impeccable prose, took a great deal of courage, which Ocean should be commended for. But from what has been outlined before, it is clear that Frank Ocean does not adhere to norms. Originally intended for the album notes of Channel Orange, the singer’s message may be a catalyst to a change in the R&B industry as we know it.

This moves us on to the focus of this post: Channel Orange. Aside from the artist’s personal life, the album gives Ocean a chance to really prove himself on a musical platform.  As the album boasts a whopping 17 tracks, I will pick out and dissect only a few highlights to whet your appetite. The first song to catch my attention, Sweet Life, was released shortly before the album. Although the backing music is minimal, its jazzy, soulful groove combines sweetly with Ocean’s smooth vocals whilst also allowing them to take centre stage. It’s also here where I began to note the upgrade in production from the singer/songwriter’s first mixtape, Nostalgia Ultra. This was particularly notable after realising it had been co-produced by Pharrell Williams.

The next highlight may be far more recognisable for you readers, as it surfaced online a while back. Thinkin Bout You is a hypnotic lullaby that climaxes perfectly with Ocean’s falsetto at the chorus. Throughout the album, it is undeniable that Frank Ocean possesses a strong talent. He often exhibits his neat vocal range with an array of riffs and pitch changes. Thinkin Bout You exemplifies this.

The next two tracks both include guest features; a rare occurrence for the album. The first to collaborate with Frank is rapper Earl Sweatshirt on Super Rich Kids. Earl, the youngest (and most promising) member of Odd Future, drops a tight verse which follows the song’s theme of wealth and society. My favourite thing about the song, though, is its thumping, uplifting beat which contradicts the predominantly negative lyrics.

Finally, we have Pink Matter, featuring the eternally cool Andre 3000. It is a sensual love song which Ocean delivers like a natural. However, with this track, it is safe to say that “Dre” steals the spotlight. Following his sublime appearance on The Real Her from Drake’s Take Care, 3000 once again contributes expertly with his unique. And, once again, I long for the next Outkast album. If Andre 3000’s verse was to be removed, I’m not sure if the song would be as powerful, but nevertheless, Ocean’s vocals are flawless.

I’ve only picked a few highlights out because I think it’s best for you to listen to the album yourself and draw your own conclusions. I strongly recommend you give Channel Orange a go, even if you think it won’t be your cup of tea. You may be surprised. Frank Ocean is an entity. He is one of those artists you can still envisage going strong for years to come. Both with and without music, I believe Frank Ocean will inspire many future artists. Indeed, Frank Ocean is an artist that could define a generation.