Frank Ocean Comes Out!!!

Today, Frank Ocean published a letter on his tumblr that confirms the rumors that he is gay (or at least bi). In some songs on his upcoming album Channel Orange, he sings about love with a man, which lead to speculation about his sexuality. He reveals that his first love was a male friend in this letter:

Tyler, the Creator responded to his friend and fellow OFWGKTA member's coming out with this tweet, showing that even though he uses homophobic slurs in his music, it does not mean he is anti-gay and that he supports Ocean coming out. 

This is huge. Homosexuality carries many negative stigmas in both hip-hop and black culture, so to come out of the closet as a popular artist is not easy. This is a step towards understanding and acceptance in the hip-hop community and even though it will take A LOT more than one artist coming out to make a change in the minds of homophobic individuals, this was an extraordinarily brave move for Ocean and will hopefully prompt the community to rethink some things. 

What do you think about homosexuality in relation to hip-hop? Do you think there is a big stigma against it? Did you have any idea Frank Ocean was gay? Because I sure didn't. 

Frank Ocean - Pyramids

Frank Ocean recently released this track which is off his upcoming album Channel Orange, to be released on July 17th. This 10 minute track is split up into two parts, with (possibly) the same character in both. The lyrics suggest Ocean's extensive knowledge of Egyptian history, with both overt and subtle references. In the first part of the song, he describes the actual Egyptian pharaoh Cleopatra, while in the second part, he sings about what is probably a modern-day interpretation of Cleopatra. At the least, they share a namesake. The ending guitar solo features John Mayer and gives the song a feel similar to The Weeknd.

Best of 2011 - Misc. Reposts: "She", "Peso", & "Novacane"

These are 3 songs that are less mainstream than the rest, but deserve greater recognition. I've already posted them over the course of this year so if you just want the short version, here it is: Tyler, the Creator ft. Frank Ocean - She, ASAP Rocky - Peso, & Frank Ocean - Novacane. Long version after the break..

Frank Ocean - Swim Good

Here's another track of OFWGKTA member Frank Ocean's debut album Nostalgia, Life. The music video is really awesome, so definitely check it out.

Tyler the Creator ft. Frank Ocean - She

Tyler, the Creator is a rapper/producer from LA and part of the Odd Future/OFGWFTA hip-hop collective. His style is reminiscent of skater kid swag mixed with emotions and actual deep thoughts. In this collaboration with Frank Ocean, he plays the role of a psychotic stalker and he does it so well its creepy. 

Frank Ocean - Strawberry Swing

This Coldplay cover off Christopher Breaux aka Frank Ocean's mixtape Nostalgia, Ultra is much better than the original in my opinion. His smooth voice just makes the song. The music video below was directed by MMCCV and has an appropriately nostalgic feel. Enjoy!

Frank Ocean - Novacane

This is the first single off Frank Ocean's latest mixtape, Nostalgia,Ultra. This 23 year old New Orleans native is still pretty new to the scene, but I have a feeling he's going to blow up. His flow is really smooth, and his lyrics are refreshingly deep. I really admire this kid.