Critically Acclaimed singer-songwriter Frank Ocean is unquestionably one of the most groundbreaking artists of the 21st century. As Tyler the Creator’s new album Chromakopia is set to release in just a few days, fans are excited to discover if Frank will make an appearance, given their previous collaborations. Despite a successful career, Frank has only released two full studio albums: Channel Orange and Blonde, with the latter coming out in 2016. After eight years, fans are wondering: where is Frank Ocean?
One of the most fascinating aspects of Frank Ocean is how his fans remain endlessly devoted to his music. In an era dominated by social media and artists’ rapid rise and fall, it seems logical that a singer who steps back from making music, touring, and promoting themselves would fade from the spotlight. After all, most audiences listen to music for entertainment, and when entertainment is lacking, they often turn to the next trending sensation.
However, this is not the case with Frank Ocean. Every day, his fans seem to be contemplating the next time he will drop an album, whether he is working on any new music, and whether he is still in the industry. When Chromakopia was announced, many questioned whether Frank would be featured since the album conveniently drops on his 37th birthday. So the question is—what brings this enigmatic intrigue to a man who seems to have retired from music?
For me, Frank’s music brings meaning to music’s modern landscape. It doesn’t shy away from embracing one’s emotions and approaches questions about identity in a thought-provoking way. Each verse can be interpreted differently based on a person’s experiences, resonating deeply within one’s soul. Blonde, especially, represents themes of falling in love, heartbreak, and coming of age, all matters that I feel are difficult to truly embody within a song, let alone a whole album. Additionally, the songs on Blonde intertwine, giving each individual a broader meaning. As said by reviewer Bailey Shehan, “Ocean puts together a lyrical book that only gets better with every listen. The songs on this album are filled with transparency and vulnerability, which make them easy to relate to.”
After delivering such an outstanding album, the pressure to create something equally impressive may be causing delays in the release of new music. Additionally, the death of Frank’s eighteen-year-old brother in 2020 may have also played a factor, as they are reported to have been extremely close, even collaborating on some music together.
No matter what, art can’t be rushed. While entertainment is consistently abundant, authenticity is scarce, and compromising just to release an album and make fans happy is not worthwhile. What is meant to be will come eventually, and Frank’s fans need to realize that. The reason we all love and connect with his music so deeply is because it makes us feel seen and is simply beautiful to experience. While I share the desire for Frank to release music, I appreciate his commitment to not putting out anything that doesn’t measure up to the legacy of Blonde or Channel Orange. Knowing some artists aren’t compromising their authenticity is promising in a world engrossed in superficiality. After all, what is music if not food for the soul?