Frank Ocean (aka Christopher Breaux), the 24 year-old R&B singer/songwriter who is quickly making a name for himself in the industry, recently revealed on his blog that he’s gay. As a result, a number of high-profile music types have leapt to the young man’s defense, including Def Jam founder Russell Simmons. Also showing their support were Solange Knowles, RuPaul, Rita Ora, and Flea, the bass player from the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Although his revelation may slightly alter the perspective of his tunes, the song ultimately remains the same: love is love is love, regardless of who you give your heart to.
“The courage he displayed in his beautiful and eloquent letter was touching on many levels. Frank broke down a wall that should never have been built,” Def Jam president Joie Manda said. “The overwhelming show of support from his peers was awesome and inspiring. Island Def Jam is so proud to stand beside Frank Ocean — the artist and man — now and always.”
In addition to dropping videos for both “Novacane” and “Thinkin Bout You”, Ocean self-released his debut mixtape, “nostalgia, ULTRA”, last year. His first proper album is currently scheduled for release on July 17th. If you think his talent ends there, think again: Ocean also penned songs for such best-selling artists as Beyonce, Justin Bieber, John Legend, and Brandy. In other words, the guy has talent to spare, and he’s not afraid to pass it around.
Although most people have been kind to Ocean following the announcement — you’re always going to run into those who aren’t nice about anything — most people on Twitter seem to have one question on their minds: Who in the hell is Frank Ocean singing to in his songs? Is it a man? Is it a woman? Their curiosity has sparked some interesting posts as of late. You can find a selection of to thoughts and comments about Ocean below.
This Frank Ocean situation should’ve made you realize that love is love. You related to his songs because you relate to love, not sexuality.
#UnAnsweredHipHopQuestions who was Frank Ocean talking ab…… you know what, nevermind. It don’t even matter!
Sooo all this time Frank Ocean was thinking about a guy ?? #UnansweredHipHopQuestions
I don’t know why everyone’s making a big deal over Frank Ocean’s sexuality. Just because he digs guys doesn’t make his music any less great.
#respect to @frank_ocean coming out. Takes courage to be the first artist in the hip-hop game to do so. See you in Seattle on the 13th