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Dissect’s Last Song Standing Returns

August 1st marked the return of Dissect’s “Last Song Standing.” Yes, after a hype season one where Cole Cuchna and Charles Holmes fully dissect Kendrick Lamar’s work, finally, they’re back.

What is Dissect?

As the name presumes, “Dissect” is a platform that strategically analyzes a lyrical work. Each season, one artist and one album from that artist are selected. And each episode hosts Cuchna and Holmes choose one song. And they take the listener on an immersive, exploratory journey. So by the end of the season, the hosts have a solid basis for selecting the “Last Song Standing.”

Dissects Purpose

Dissect was created to take a nuanced look at what the most prolific artists in the industry bring to the table. The idea is to suss out the mastery. Why? As Dissect notes,

“In a world creating and accessing more content than ever before, we’ve become a scrolling culture, hurriedly swiping through this infinite swath of content that seems to replenish without end. Dissect was created to counter this cultural shift.”

So in this Spotify-backed platform for hip-hop heads, lyricism is broken down to a science that connoisseurs can gain a deeper appreciation.

Dissect Season 2

Season 2 gives fans more of what they crave. But Frank Ocean is in the center ring. And the album up for dissection is Ocean’s Propeller project. “Channel Orange.” is known for launching his career.

In the season’s inaugural episode, listeners can expect an entertaining discourse between Cuchna and Holmes as they

“take their audience back to 2012 with some album background, quiz each other on Channel Orange facts, and debate what songs should be in contention for Frank’s best ever.”

Who is Frank Ocean?

 

Frank Ocean

Frank Ocean. Image Source: Theo Wargo/Wire Image.

Frank Ocean is one of hip-hop’s standout artists straight from the Big Easy. And by 2012, everyone knew his name. He became known as an artist with brass and unmatched authenticity. As Pitchfork notes, Ocean became the first black artist to walk fully in his identity, thus becoming a master of “confessional songwriting.” However, “Dissect” directs the lens toward his bold, creative, and eclectic artistry. And rightly so. Frank Ocean brings to music what Paul Klee brings to the canvas. Their works are vibrant, colorful, and drawn from a hodgepodge of inspiration. By design, they are outliers. “Blonde” stands as an example. As Pitchfork notes.

“Blonde was an album which blurred boundaries between soul, hip-hop, electronica, and indie rock.  And it was a timely reminder: Ocean blossoms when in complete creative control.”

So, it is currently available for those who did not live stream the episode. And future episodes are set to release every Tuesday. So, tune in and follow the journey to discovering “The Last Song Standing.”

Written by: Renae Richardson

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Frank Ocean’s Second Weekend Coachella Cancellation Triggered Massive Refund Searches

In the world of music festivals, Coachella is one of the most anticipated events of the year, drawing thousands of attendees worldwide. However, the excitement turned into disappointment for many fans after news broke that Frank Ocean would no longer be performing during the festival’s second weekend. According to an analysis of Google search data by casino experts CasinoAlpha.com, searches for ‘Coachella refund’ surged 697% worldwide within hours of the announcement. The search spike suggests that many ticket holders sought compensation after Frank Ocean’s cancellation.

Ocean’s first performance during the festival’s first weekend was already tainted with controversy as he arrived on stage over an hour late and abruptly ended his set due to a supposed ‘curfew.’

Despite the disappointment of many fans, one of Frank Ocean’s representatives confirmed that the second cancellation was due to a leg injury he sustained during the first week of the festival. A representative for the singer confirmed that medical professionals had advised Frank Ocean not to perform due to two fractures and a sprain in his left leg.

Frank Ocean Cancels Coachella Performance Due To Injury, Blink-182 Steps In As Replacement”

Unlike other performances, the show was not live-streamed on the Coachella YouTube channel, which also caused disappointment for fans who couldn’t attend the event.

However, despite initial dissatisfaction among fans, American rock band Blink-182 has replaced Ocean, according to Variety. Ocean, for his part, expressed his appreciation for the audience, saying, “It was chaotic. There is some beauty in chaos. It isn’t what I intended to show but I enjoy being out there and I’ll see you soon.”

When Music Meets Ice: The Unforgettable Performance That Almost Was

Imagine this – a musician performing on an ice skating rink instead of a traditional stage at a concert or festival. It may seem like an unconventional choice, but the idea is undeniably intriguing. Not only does the serene scenery of ice add to the ambiance, but the challenge of performing on skates creates a different level of excitement.

The “White Ferrari” singer was about to perform on a custom-built ice rink with over 100 skaters swirling around him in perfect harmony. An experience like no other was in store for the audience – a true feast for the senses. But unfortunately, fate had other plans. Concerns about Ocean’s injury led to the dismantling of the stage hours before the show, leaving fans disappointed and confused.

However, 30 skaters dressed to the nines in custom Prada outfits and detailed face paint still took the stage, saving the show from being a total loss. They dazzled the audience with their creativity and flair, adding an unexpected twist to an already extraordinary spectacle.

Coachella Attendance May Decline Following Frank Ocean’s Cancellation, Says Industry Expert

A representative from CasinoAlpha.com states that the Coachella festival attracts music enthusiasts and celebrities from around the globe who travel to the desert every April to witness some of the most renowned musicians perform. The festival is famous worldwide and stands out as one of the most prominent music festivals.

While Frank Ocean’s sudden cancellation may be disappointing for fans eagerly anticipating his performance, these recent findings indicate that several festival-goers may skip the weekend altogether.

The spokesperson added, “Having a headliner suddenly cancel will undoubtedly come as frustrating news for fans who have been eagerly awaiting seeing Ocean perform. However, these findings suggest that many festivalgoers may decide to forgo the weekend entirely.”

Written by Nikiya Biggs | Twitter | LinkedIn | Instagram

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JAY-Z’s Top 7 Verses in His Career

DJ Khaled just dropped his album that included A-list artists, per usual. Of course, he had none other than Jay-Z on his tracklist. “God Did” featuring Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, John Legend, and Fridayy. Jay-Z goes last, having the most extended verse. He spits for at least five minutes leaving listeners to forget that Ross and Wayne were also on the track. Jay-Z’s verse is being talked about, and a popular question arises: is this his best verse? Everyone wants to know, and I’m sure everyone has their own opinion. Jay-Z has so many bars, which makes this debate difficult. We, however, cracked it and came up with Jay-Z’s top 7 verses.

7. “What’s Free” By Meek Mill ft. JAY-Z and Rick Ross (“Championships” Album)

Jay-Z goes last in this song off Meek Mill’s “Championships” album. When this came out, the world stopped! This was 2018, in which Hov had been rapping for over 20 years. Fans were excited to hear a verse from the legend as his career is winding down. He touched on many topics and what’s happening in the world today. People appreciated the knowledge he dropped regarding the history of our culture. In this 3-minute verse, you can learn a lot from Hov!

https://twitter.com/jamarj_8/status/1321640187416383488?s=21&t=CcCDhzMBK9BxkhwAnUeAiw

6. “No Church in the Wild” By Jay-Z & Kanye West ft. Frank Ocean & The-Dream (“Watch the Throne” Album)

In 2011, Jay-Z and Kanye West released their joint album “Watch the Throne.” Hov drops knowledge in his first few bars referencing Ancient Rome and the backstabbing Pilgrims. He also lets you know that he has studied ancient philosophy as he mentions the Euthyphro dilemma. Jay-Z refers to Socrates and Plato as class is in session for all listeners!

5. “Pound Cake” By Drake ft. JAY-Z (“Nothing Was the Same” Album)

Another surprise was when Drake dropped “Nothing Was the Same.” We were all happy to hear the Brooklyn rapper on a song with Drake. Like in his recent “God Did” verse, this verse he talks about the people who made millions because of him. Dame Dash, Biggs, Kanye West, Just Blaze, Lyor Cohen, Cam’ron, and Beanie Sigel all made millions under Roc-A-Fella.

4. “Soon You’ll Understand” 2nd Verse By Jay-Z (“The Dynasty: Roc-La-Familia” Album)

Off “The Dynasty” album, Hov brings listeners into his personal life. We get to see him being vulnerable early in his career. He speaks about love, friendship, and family. I’m pretty sure the second verse is not about Jay-Z’s personal life.

3. “Renegade” 2nd Verse By JAY-Z ft. Eminem (“The Blueprint” Album)

In this one, Hov goes head-to-head against Eminem. There’s a considerable debate on who went harder, Em or Jay? I’ll give the edge to Jay on this song even though Eminem’s verses are high level, probably the best he’s written. I think Em knew he had to show up on Jay-Z’s album. In 2001, Jay-Z had the game wrapped around his finger.

2. “Song Cry” 2nd Verse By Jay-Z (“The Blueprint” Album)

Similar to “Soon You’ll Understand,” Jay-Z gets vulnerable again. It’s not hard to feel him on this one. He’s talking about things many of us can relate to. Jay-Z can tell a story, be personal, and make a hit song. “Song Cry” has all of it!

1. “Dear Summer” By Jay-Z (2005 Freestyle)

Many people might’ve forgotten this was Memphis Bleek’s song, but Hov stole the show. Per usual! At this time, Jay-Z didn’t have a verse since “The Black Album,” which came out in 2003. This freestyle excited the hip-hop world, and we realized that Hov wasn’t in “retirement.” 17 years later, and this freestyle is still so good!

We only did seven because Jay-Z just has too much in his catalog! There are so many other verses that can be put on this list! Hov has 17 albums, countless singles, and so many awards. The Hall of Fame songwriter still does it like no other!

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Written by: Brandon Simmons

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Earl Sweatshirt Is Dropping New Album ‘Sick!’

Finally, Earl Sweatshirt is dropping Sick! on January 14th. He made this announcement on Instagram today (December 10). This is his first official post-pandemic release coming off of his 2019 EP Feet Of Clay. In his own words, “Sick! is my humble offering of 10 songs recorded in the wake of the worldwide coronavirus pandemic and its subsequent lockdowns.” His first 2021 single 2010 was an incredible way to start this album rollout.

 

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Releases New Single ‘Tabula Rosa

In addition to the album news, Earl dropped a new single from the project called Tabula Rosa. The song features the underground rap duo, Armand Hammer (Billy Woods & Elucid). He delivers a phenomenal & brings tons of energy to their verses to start the record. Earl’s rapping is a form of poetry as he effortlessly flows over the nostalgic vocal samples & glimmering piano keys. The song’s title is the name of a theory stating that the human mind is born with a fresh clean slate. Tabula Rosa‘s music video is recorded with a vintage VHS style and features cameos from Boldy James and London producer Budgie.

The People Could Fly

Earl was working on a completely different project titled The People Could Fly before the pandemic. He explained, “Before the virus, I had been working on an album I named after a book I used to read with my mother (The People Could Fly). Once the lockdowns hit, people couldn’t fly anymore.” Instead, the pandemic itself would spark the idea & inspiration for the album we’re getting on January 14th. The recording process for this project had Earl feeding off the gloomy energy of the angry, exhausted & crippled American citizens.

Are you excited about Earl Sweatshirt’s new album? He has always proven to be one of the most gifted rappers in the past decade. Earl Sweatshirt is dropping Sick! on January 14th.

Follow for more on your favorite artists at FMHipHop.com.

Written by: Oryah Brown

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Frank Ocean Pays Tribute to Virgil Abloh In Rare Statement

Frank Ocean paid tribute to designer Virgil Abloh in a heartfelt statement following his death yesterday. LVMH announced Abloh had waged a private battle with cancer. Ocean shared the tribute on Sunday, paired with a photo of the duo during happier times at the Met Gala in September. He discussed Abloh’s close relationship with him and his younger brother, Ryan, who died in a car crash in 2020.

Through Instagram, Ocean recalled a conversation that he previously had with Abloh. Ocean asked how Abloh could be so successful in his career and still so central in his family and community.

“In 2018 I believe it was I called V and asked him how it was possible to play hundreds of shows a year and do numerous fashion collections a year and be a father and a husband and return EVERYONE’s texts with enthusiasm and emojis and encouragement and seemingly.. with ease. I cannot remember how he responded verbatim but I’m sure it was quotable whatever he said,” Ocean continued. “He was always quotable. But the gist of his response was that he was interested in living and living to the maximum extent of his level… which proved to be Impossible today because he was BEYOND.”

Ocean and Abloh at the Met Gala earlier this year. Photo by Arturo Holmes for Getty Images.

He also recalled how much of an inspiration Abloh was to Ocean’s own music. “When I went to Miami and you played a set on the beach in 2016 you played ‘White Ferrari’ – a song with no drums or bars anywhere to be found lol – and started a sing-along,” he wrote. “When I played demos of shit I was working on or showed you Homer way before it was ready you put the battery in my back.”

Ocean’s Family and Abloh

Ocean, who has rarely spoken publicly about his brother’s tragic loss, then went on to discuss Ryan’s relationship with Abloh. “When Ryan went to his prom you got him some pieces from your new collection at LV and he was GEEKed. Couldn’t get him to take it off,” Ocean wrote. “When my brother passed I never said anything because it was way too much but he loved you and really looked up to you. He was going to fashion school and everything. He wanted to be a designer.”

Ocean closed his statement as one of the greatest songwriters of this century does; with a profound sentence about grief. “I know grief is love that you don’t get to express so is an attempt at expressing it. Love you V. You’re a hero.”

Written by Justin Acosta

Twitter: @hahalacka

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Frank Ocean’s Scheduled Return to Music With Third Album in The Works

Thirty-three-year-old singer and songwriter Frank Ocean has made headlines this week with news of his return to the music industry. It has been five years since Frank’s last album. Multiple sources from music labels and social media platforms have confirmed that his third official album is nearly complete. As of now, it is rumored he is currently looking to sign with a label and promote the upcoming record.

Starting Success

Frank Ocean has built a large fan base over the years before, during, and after his last album. His debut album “Channel Orange” was a huge hit. It secured a Grammy in 2013 for Best Contemporary Album and along with two other Grammy nominations. One for album of the year and another for Record of the Year with the hit single “Thinkin Bout You.” Also, the album sold 275,000 units and posted number 1 on the Billboard 200 in 2012. Till this day, it is still on the chart. His last album “Blonde,” was also successful with singles such as “God Speed” and “White Ferrari.”

Crazy Over Frank Ocean

Ocean’s impact and status are no secret to the music industry as someone to “Stan” over. His fans have desperately waited years for his return. They have even shunned the multiple platinum record artist and business mogul “Drake” over him. In 2018 0f Tyler the Creator’s Odd Future Festival, Drake was booed off stage because there were rumors that surprise guess was supposed to appear on stage. Those rumors were undoubtedly about Frank Ocean. Nonetheless, once Drake appeared on stage as the guest, the festival’s fans were not pleased and booed him off before he could even sing a song. It’s safe to assume that if Frank Ocean is reported to be somewhere, he should be there or else.

Ocean’s Future Plans

Frank Ocean’s Scheduled Return to Music With Third Album in The Works
Source: hiphopdx.com

Frank Ocean will still be looking for labels to sign with for his projects. He wants a good team for his creative construction and promotion. Frank wants to have a good chunk of control and creativity with his work while under a label. His last deal with the recording label “Dej Jam” did not go so well in his personal experience. Lastly, he will be headlining 2023’s Coachella.

Read more about it here @fmhiphop.com

Written by: Zacchaeus Heyward

Snapchat: Prophetzacc22 | Instagram: Prophetzacc22

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Here Are The Standout Fits From The 2021 Met Gala

Fashion’s biggest night is officially back. After being cancelled in 2020 and postponed earlier this year, The Met Gala made its grand return last night in New York City. After over a year, anticipation for the event was high, from leaked fake seating charts to high profile chairs. Even the attendance list itself had people talking, from the absence of event favorites Zendaya and SZA, to the vaccination requirement causing some (cough cough, Nicki) to stay home.  

 

The Gala’s theme this year, In America: A Lexicon of Fashion, is a tribute to the history of American fashion. The stars ran with this, serving diverse inspirations and plenty of drama. Here are the biggest winners and losers from last night. 

 

The Met Gala Ten

1. Lil Nas X 

 

Lil Nas X couldn’t be hotter right now. After wearing a stunning, Rick-James-meets-Prince suit to Sunday’s VMA’s, where he won three awards including Video of the Year, it was hard to imagine how he’d top his showmanship for Monday. But Lil Nas had the last laugh when he made not one, not two, but THREE outfit changes on the carpet. Wearing all Versace, Lil Nas first hit the carpet in a golden brocade cloak, which he unshouldered to reveal gold-plated armor. Beneath THAT was a skin-tight bedazzled gold jumpsuit, made for a stage. Although the connection to the theme of American fashion wasn’t so clear, with this much drama and detail, it’s hard to care.   

2. A$AP Rocky & Rihanna 

 

Two of the most anticipated guests of the night, A$AP Rocky & Rihanna arrived fashionably late. The couple seemed happy and in love on the carpet, looking even cozier together than their his-and-hers duvet jackets. Rihanna is known Met Gala royalty, specifically after a legendary 2016 entrance that still gets people talking. This year, the looks lacked some inspiration. When Rocky dropped his coat, which Twitter fans joked looked like a comforter he ripped off his bed, he revealed no more than a basic black suit. The two looked beautiful (after all, they are) but left much to be desired in the fit department. 

 

3. Frank Ocean 

 

The award for weirdest look of the night has to go to Frank Ocean, who entered with a realistically moving, alien-green robot baby on his hip. Ocean, who recently debuted his own luxury brand Homer, topped off his look with an iced-out diamond chain from the label and a baseball cap reading “Dreamcore.” Whatever his thought process may have been, matching your robotic doll’s slime-green skin tone to your buzz cut is the definition of effort. 

 

4. Kim Kardashian 

 

Kim, known for her famous face and physique, took a different approach for this years Met Gala: complete coverage. Kanye’s recent penchant for wearing full-face masks clearly inspired Kim’s look, and Twitter couldn’t stop speculating whether or not her similarly-masked date was Ye himself. In fact, it was Balenciaga creative director Demna Gvasalia, who undeniably resembled Kanye. Fanfare aside, with no clear ties to the theme, Kim needed to take a cue from Lil Nas X and go for some more theater, and maybe something less…..legging-like. At least the mystery was there. 

 

5. Lil Uzi Vert 

 

Of course, the dark prince himself! Uzi’s gothic look by Thom Browne was a perfect combination between pushing boundaries and embodying his own style. With an insane black leather purse matching the legendary Erykah Badu’s (who had a blast comparing outfits with him throughout the night), Uzi was playing dress-up in the best way. 

6. Kid Cudi 

 

Though Cudder’s dramatic eye-makeup and floor length skirt stood out, after the downright insanity that was Frank Ocean’s entrance this look couldn’t help but feel derivative; the larger-than-life chain, the green buzzcut. However, the Louis Vuitton look, complete with a blue teddy sweatshirt that read “Amen Breakers,” felt thrown together and confusing. Weirdness belongs at the Met Gala, and Frank’s animatronic offspring was the definition of weird, and just more memorable than Cudi’s attempt. 

7. Megan Thee Stallion 

 

THEE hot girl is always a show-stopping stunner, but can someone get her a new stylist? Her pink Coach ensemble, though perfectly tailored, felt like a rich suburban teenagers prom dress. Meg’s commanding presence deserved better than this, and after the kind of bad-ass dominatrix looks she’s been pulling out at recent performances, she deserved a look that matches her star power. Especially at her first Met Gala! 

 

8. Jack Harlow 

 

Even around the industry’s hottest couples, it’s hard to top the holy matrimony of Jack Harlow and a velvet suit. He wears it out. Tommy Hilfiger is the perfect brand to match the theme, and the toned down red-and-blue stripes were the most elegant take on the American flag all night. 

 

9. Lil Baby 

 

The jewels are giving, and Baby knows how to wear a turtleneck. Indeed, the tailoring is everything here. But one has to ask: why does he always look like he’s in trouble with the principal? 

 

10. Saweetie  

 

Saweetie’s draped look by Christian Cowan makes her moniker “the icy girl” an understatement. The bedazzled gown molded to her body perfectly, and ended in a glorious train, which was inspired by the Black American Heritage and Filipino flags; a perfect ode to the theme and her own personal history. Chatting with Keke Palmer, she got emotional while sharing the inspiration for her first ever Met Gala appearance. “That’s what makes me an American girl,” she said, glowing. No notes.

 

Written by Hattie Lindert | Twitter 

All images via Getty Images 

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#CherryJuice: Finally!! Frank Ocean’s “Boys Don’t Cry” Drops This Friday

The wait is over .. we think !

#CherryJuice: Finally!! Frank Ocean's "Boys Don't Cry" Drops This Friday