This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Northeastern chapter.
Just a couple of months ago, Frank Ocean, whose debut studio album Channel Orange was released last summer, stole the Grammy’s with his performance of “Forrest Gump” and overall classiness. He’s taking the world by storm. And while “Fun.” may have won Best New Artist, Ocean still has a pretty “Sweet Life”. So with that, here are seven reasons why you need to be obsessed with Frank Ocean.
- He’s not afraid of taking musical risks: While most artists rely on the standard “verse/chorus/verse/bridge” song structure, Frank is far more ambitious. His song, “Pyramids”, is almost ten minutes long and is a combination of R&B, electro-house and John Mayer realness resulting in all kinds of awesome.
- He has a falsetto that makes angels weep: Seriously his voice is as smooth as nutella on a piece of toast (take a note, J-Biebs).
- He actually knows how to write music: Unlike Ke$ha, whose greatest lyrical contribution is “I’m in a crop top, like I’m working at hooters”, Frank actually knows how to craft a story that is both vulnerable and relatable. For example, “It’s a bad religion, to be in love with someone who could never love you.”
- He’s like a black Paulie Bleeker, except way cuter and culturally relevant: For some reason, Frank likes to sport a bandana that he ties around his head like a sweatband when he performs. Why? I have no idea, but dayumm Frank keep up the good work.
- He’s a hell of a lot classier than Chris Brown: A couple of months ago, Frank and Chris brawled it out in the parking lot of a recording studio, and despite the fact that it is common knowledge that Chris Brown is the WORST, Frank decided not to press charges against him. In response to the situation, Frank simply said, “Forgiveness, albeit difficult, is wisdom. Peace, albeit trite, is what I want in my short life.” So in conclusion, Frank Ocean, we want to invite you to have lunch with us everyday for the rest of the week. And Chris Brown- just go home.
- He’s changing the face of hip hop: This past summer Frank published an open letter recounting unrequited feelings he had for another young man when he was younger. Several songs on the album, including “Forrest Gump”, are about the relationship. Frank’s full disclosure and openness with himself is a step in the right direction for the hip-hop industry that is still struggling with issues of homophobia and misogyny. Hopefully Frank’s letter will make the industry more inclusive to people of different sexual orientations and lifestyles.
- He thanked his mother before anyone else in his acceptance speech: Fact: there is nothing more adorable and attractive than a man who appreciates the woman who brought him into this world.
And if you aren’t convinced yet, here are some pictures that will make you reconsider: