For many artists, balancing complex subject material with musical fluidity is incredibly difficult. Oftentimes, songs can feel like poetry with an inconsequential beat behind it, or they can feel like the artist is a preacher rather than a singer. Ocean never falls into this trap. 

As you break down Channel Orange, there seems to be three broad themes that stand out: drugs, money, and love. These generic themes are revitalized through story-like songs that feel genuine and authentic.

The album begins with one of Ocean’s most popular songs: Thinkin Bout You. This song opens with a somber violin solo that leads into a smooth R&B melody. The melody has a new age beat that feels like a throbbing heart keeping the music together.

Thinkin Bout You is about a man reminiscing about their ex. While the lyrics are slightly basic, the ability of Frank Ocean to infuse emotion allows the song to thrive. The song’s balance between new age beats with Ocean’s incredible vocal talent make this song a memorable start to a fantastic album

Immediately after Thinkin Bout You, the album transitions into another strong song titled Sierra Leone. While the strength of Thinkin Bout You is its infectious melody and impressive vocals, Sierra Leone has lyrics that could be read as poetry. 

Sierra Leone is a country in Africa that is known for two things: its beautiful pink skies, and its heavy use as a port for the transatlantic slave trade. Ocean uses the pink skies as a metaphor for irresponsible sex he has with his girlfriend as a young man. Eventually this leads to the inevitable consequence of a surprise baby. 

The man in Sierra Leone loves his daughter deeply but feels chained down like a slave due to his financial situation. He feels regret for his inability to provide for the person he loves.

After a slight lull in the middle of the album, Frank Ocean strikes gold in what I consider to be the best song in the album. Bad Religion uses a combination of orchestra instruments played underneath soulful vocals that ooze emotion. 

The melody sets a tone of melodrama while the vocals portray true pain. The lyrics paint a picture of a man who is in agony over the unrequited love he feels for another man. He portrays this love for him as a cult that he knows is harmful to him, yet he is unable to leave. 

The song also weaves in ideas about the pressure he feels to apologize for being attracted to the same sex. The “unrequited love” could easily be interpreted to symbolize how he feels ostracized from religious communities due to his attraction to men. 

Ultimately Frank Ocean’s album, Channel Orange is one that will continue to be talked about for years to come. His use of a multitude of instruments allows Ocean to take liberties with the flow of the lyrics without losing the musical integrity of the songs. His soulful voice laces his complex lyrics with the emotional punch needed for a lasting attachment to the songs. The combination of Jazz, R&B, and Soul creates an atmosphere that immediately draws you into each song.