Frank Ocean released his second studio album, Blonde, in 2016. When first listening to the album it seemed unconventional to me. However, when I took the time to listen and analyze the music, it opened my eyes and made me realize that this album is a musical masterpiece with a plethora of different musical melodies made from a myriad of instruments. From synths to drums, this album displays everything very excellently.
My favorite song on the album is named “Solo.” The album is about how Ocean feels lonely, both in his relationships and his life. He does not know what direction in life he wants, so he says he will take it solo. Ocean is willing to go through this if this is good for him. I really love not just how it has a story but how it conveys it beautifully through his different wordings.
Another one of my favorite songs is Oceans’ song “Nikes.” This song is a compelling track that masterfully combines R&B with experimental elements. The song opens with an ethereal melody that sets a reflective tone, while the lyrics delve into themes of love, loss, and the emptiness that can accompany fame and materialism. Ocean’s use of layered production creates a lush, dreamlike quality, enhancing the emotional depth of the song. The contrast between its smooth sound and thought-provoking content makes “Nikes” a standout piece in his discography, showcasing his unique artistry and ability to capture complex feelings.
The final song I would like to talk about is called “Be Yourself.” This song contains a voice message from his mother. In this voicemail she tells him not to do drugs and to stay true to himself. She tells him to always stay true to himself and don’t try to be someone else. This is a very powerful message because when people go to college sometimes they stray from what they truly are because they want to be perceived as cool. She is just trying to protect him, but at the end of the day she cannot control him. It is up to himself to stay true to who he is.
Overall, this album is very beautifully written and I think all of Frank Ocean’s songs are good to listen to. They are very emotional and even though he has not produced any music in years, his music still remains amazing.
