Venting about his decision to drop the record his own way, he took to Twitter on March 1, 2011:
"i. did. this. not ISLAND DEF JAM. that's why you see no label logo on the artwork that I DID. guess its my fault for trusting my dumbass lawyer and signing my career over to a failing company. fuck Def Jam & any company that goes the length of signing a kid with dreams & talent w/ no intention of following through. fuck em. now back to my day. i want some oatmeal and toast. brunch swag."
As a member of the Odd Future (OFWGKTA) collective, his sound is distinctively soulful/r&b influenced, yet done in a way that could pass for something totally different. As Tyler, the Creator states, “It’s Smooth Ass Music About Bitches, Relationships And Being A Rich Young Nigga…But In A Swagged Out Way.”
Ocean was evacuated from the University of New Orleans to Los Angeles, California just as Hurricane Katrina hit in August 2005, and stayed in Los Angeles to pursue a music career. Ocean joined Los Angeles based collective OFWGKTA, who he met through mutual friends, at the end of 2009. In the end of 2009, he met Tricky Stewart, who helped Ocean sign a contract with Def Jam Recordings as an artist, however, he was initially unable to build a relationship with the company. In 2010, he changed his name from Christopher "Lonny" Breaux to Christopher Francis Ocean via a legal website. In an April 2011 interview, Ocean intimated that his relationship with Def Jam has strengthened since the release of his mixtape. On April 28, 2011, Ocean was arrested on unspecified charges by the LAPD, and was released on the morning after on April 29, 2011. Ocean joined his OFWGKTA bandmates for the first time on tour from May 12 to May 19, 2011. On May 31, 2011, Def Jam released the single Novacane on iTunes soon followed by Swim Good Taken from his mixtape Nostalgia, ULTRA. His first 'proper' album, Channel Orange was released on July 17, 2012.
In 2016, He released the visual album Endless alongside his second studio album Blonde, following several years of delays. Blonde debuted at number one in the United States and United Kingdom.
In 2017, Ocean released several singles, including Chanel and Lens, through his Blonded Radio show, and made several appearances on other songs by artists like Calvin Harris, A$AP Mob, and Tyler, the Creator.
48
Frank Ocean Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I mean, they come from an era who made a lot of money of that shit
I wonder if it fucked with their conscience
It fucked with me being out there, I couldn't stand it
I couldn't stand seeing people fucking themselves up like that on the shit
And that's where the money came from
48, 48, 48 states I get it in
They call me Mr. Treat your nose
If you really need some blow
I can get it for the low
48, 48, 48 states I get it in
48, 48, 48 states I get it in
They call me Mr. Treat your nose
If you really need some blow
I can get it for the low
Shit is getting warmer on that corner
Gotta watch out for them 5-0 phoners
Your mother is a goner
I warned you before you super sized my fries with that dollar
You got a daughter, shits getting harder
The only thing you wanna bump her was your freedom
You can't afford to get caught up but you in too deep
And the seashore ain't soil
You got a mother, she don't support you
But you bought her a new house cause you love her
Growing up you barely had a roof
Now you got a coupe and it doesn't have a roof
I guess you're accustomed to what you're used to
So you bought two nigga
They are coming for you nigga
Niggas be hating I'm doing them bitches
Like Susan and Karen be doing your pockets
And running the man and he's losing his fucking mind and it's all an illusion
Who was alluding all of this potent
I am the reason your family is using and shootin' up, it's my fault
You can blame me motherfucker, for killin' your aunties and uncles
The hustle and hunger, all I wanted was a cheeseburger
And a little chain, tuck, didn't realize this game fucked up some lives
Oh how's mine my conscience eats it up all the time
But other than that I'm fine, I got a little money in my pocket
48, 48, 48 states I get it in
48, 48, 48 states I get it in
They call me Mr. Treat your nose
If you really need some blow
I can get it for the low nigga
48, 48, 48 states I get it in
48, 48, 48 states I get it in
They call me Mr. Treat your nose
If you really need some blow
I can get it for the low
Nigga, we broke as fuck
Homie got a chop shop I sold that truck
And I sold that dope
Motherfuckers hope this nigga go broke
But like my work I give no fucks, I'm sorry
She could have been a doctor, nigga, I'm sorry
Could have been a actor and won that Oscar, said, I'm sorry
I sold that soap and I killed black folk, I'm sorry
But I got a nice car, put my sister through school
While my momma all cool, I'm sorry
I'm in too deep and I can't see the shore, I'm sorry
You get addicted to the flip, the transaction, the hustling
Even more than the money, it's just your job
You feel like it's your duty to be the man in between the man
And make this happen for that person, to do this and do that
You become the go to guy forever and next thing you know you're in too deep
Way too deep, scare the shit out of you
You wind up with so much work, that you'll be scared to death
It's important for us to realize man, we gotta get out of that man
Dudes is buying choppers to shoot down people that look just like them
Dudes is buying guns to take down each other, nobody wins
Ya known what I mean?
These lyrics explore the consequences of the crack epidemic that plagued America in the 1980s and 90s. The singer questions whether those who profited from the sale of crack cocaine were aware of the destruction it wreaked on the community. He speaks from personal experience of seeing people destroy themselves on the drug and being unable to bear witness to it. The singer also references the hustle and addiction of drug dealing, highlighting how it can become an all-encompassing job. The lyrics suggest that drug dealers become desensitized to the impact of their actions on the wider community, while also acknowledging that the lack of opportunities and inequality lead people to turn to drug dealing as a means of survival.
The repeated refrain of "48 states I get it in" is a nod to the drug trade happening in every state, and the persona of the dealer ("Mr. Treat Your Nose") is painted as both an exploiter and a victim of the system. The lyrics also explore the paradox of wanting to provide for one's family through drug dealing, while simultaneously reckoning with the fact that it harms the community. The concluding lines suggest a call to action, urging those involved in the trade to get out before it becomes too late and before they, too, become a victim of the violence and destruction it brings.
Line by Line Meaning
Crack fucked up the world, and I wonder if they realized the damage
The harm caused by crack to the society and I am curious if those who produced it were aware of the damage that it could bring.
I mean, they come from an era who made a lot of money of that shit
Those who created and profited from crack came from a generation that was able to make a lot of money from it.
I wonder if it fucked with their conscience
I wonder if those who created crack and profited from it feel guilty or remorseful about the harm it caused.
It fucked with me being out there, I couldn't stand it
Witnessing the destructive impact of crack on people's lives was emotionally disturbing for me.
I couldn't stand seeing people fucking themselves up like that on the shit
It was unbearable to watch people self-destruct due to the influence of crack.
And that's where the money came from
The source of the wealth generated by those involved with crack was the widespread addiction and harm caused by it.
48, 48, 48 states I get it in
I distribute drugs across 48 states.
They call me Mr. Treat your nose
My clientele call me 'Mr. Treat your nose' because I specialize in selling cocaine.
If you really need some blow, I can get it for the low
If you require cocaine, I can obtain it for you at a low price.
Shit is getting warmer on that corner
The situation is getting more dangerous on the street corner where drugs are being sold.
Gotta watch out for them 5-0 phoners
It is necessary to avoid getting caught by the police.
Your mother is a goner
Your mother is in danger.
I warned you before you super sized my fries with that dollar
I cautioned you not to cross me by giving me a counterfeit bill.
You got a daughter, shits getting harder
You have a daughter, and things are becoming more difficult for you.
The only thing you wanna bump her was your freedom
The only thing on your mind is being able to provide for your child and secure your freedom.
You can't afford to get caught up but you in too deep
You cannot afford to get entangled in illegal activities, but you are already immersed in it.
And the seashore ain't soil
The prospect of easy money through selling drugs is not genuine, and its promises of a better life are unsustainable.
You got a mother, she don't support you
You have a mother, but she does not approve of your choices.
But you bought her a new house cause you love her
Despite your mother's disapproval, you bought her a new house as an act of love.
Growing up you barely had a roof
As a child, you had a difficult upbringing and did not always have a roof over your head.
Now you got a coupe and it doesn't have a roof
You now have a fancy car but still lack stability and security in your life.
I guess you're accustomed to what you're used to
You have become accustomed to and comfortable with living a rough, uncertain lifestyle.
So you bought two nigga
You purchased two guns for protection.
They are coming for you nigga
Others in the drug trade are threatening your safety and coming after you.
Niggas be hating I'm doing them bitches
Other people in the drug trade are unhappy that I am selling more drugs than they are.
Like Susan and Karen be doing your pockets
Those who are close to you, like Susan and Karen, are stealing from you.
And running the man and he's losing his fucking mind and it's all an illusion
The competition and pressure to succeed in the drug trade is leading you to lose your sanity, and the success that you believe is real is just an illusion.
Who was alluding all of this potent
Who was suggesting the viability and attractiveness of selling drugs.
I am the reason your family is using and shootin' up, it's my fault
My involvement in the drug trade is contributing to the addiction and harm being caused to your family members.
You can blame me motherfucker, for killin' your aunties and uncles
You can hold me responsible for the deaths caused by addiction in your family.
The hustle and hunger, all I wanted was a cheeseburger
My drive for money and success, fueled by poverty and desperation, initially came from wanting to afford a cheeseburger.
And a little chain, tuck, didn't realize this game fucked up some lives
I only wanted to make some money and have a fancy chain, but I did not realize that the drug trade would ruin lives.
Oh how's mine my conscience eats it up all the time
My conscience troubles me constantly about my role in harming others by selling drugs.
But other than that I'm fine, I got a little money in my pocket
Despite feeling guilty about the harm caused by my drug selling, I am able to justify it by the relatively small amount of money I have made.
Nigga, we broke as fuck
We are extremely poor.
Homie got a chop shop I sold that truck
My friend runs an illegal car repair shop, and I sold him my truck.
And I sold that dope
I sold drugs to make money.
Motherfuckers hope this nigga go broke
Others are hoping that I will lose all of my money.
But like my work I give no fucks, I'm sorry
Despite the danger and harm caused by my drug dealing, I am unapologetic and continue to do it.
She could have been a doctor, nigga, I'm sorry
I am sorry that I have contributed to a world where talented and intelligent people are not able to pursue their potential.
Could have been a actor and won that Oscar, said, I'm sorry
Our society could have had more talented and celebrated entertainers if structures were in place to support them instead of turning to drugs.
I sold that soap and I killed black folk, I'm sorry
I am responsible for contributing to the addiction and death of people in my community.
But I got a nice car, put my sister through school, while my momma all cool, I'm sorry
Despite the harm I have caused, I am able to provide for my family and provide them with a good life.
I'm in too deep and I can't see the shore, I'm sorry
I am so involved and invested in my drug dealing that the end seems out of reach and difficult to visualize.
You get addicted to the flip, the transaction, the hustling, even more than the money, it's just your job
The allure of making deals and being at the center of the action in the drug trade can become addicting, even more so than the money itself. It feels like a job you cannot leave.
You feel like it's your duty to be the man in between the man, and make this happen for that person, to do this and do that
You feel like you must be the crucial connection between your suppliers and your purchasers, and go above and beyond other drug dealers to provide for everyone's demands.
You become the go to guy forever and next thing you know you're in too deep
You start to become the most relied-on drug dealer, and before you realize it, you have become too involved and cannot easily exit the drug trade.
Way too deep, scare the shit out of you
You are now so entrenched in the drug trade that you are afraid of not being involved, of what will happen if you stop.
You wind up with so much work, that you'll be scared to death
You end up with so much drug inventory that you are afraid of losing it all or getting caught by the police.
It's important for us to realize man, we gotta get out of that man
It is crucial for us to acknowledge the harm and social impact of the drug trade, and to work to leave it behind.
Dudes is buying choppers to shoot down people that look just like them
People are so deeply involved in the drug trade that they are willing to harm and kill others in their own communities.
Dudes is buying guns to take down each other, nobody wins
Violence and fighting between drug dealers will only lead to damage and harm for everyone involved.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Tyler Okonma
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Introductory line, no real meaning behind it.
Every day is unpredictable, and we have no control over it.
No matter how hard we try, the future is always uncertain and out of our control.
The environment is always changing, and we can only adapt to the changes.
No matter the circumstances, life will always be what it is.
Our experiences in life shape us and influence how we react to certain situations.
Stay alert, be aware of your surroundings, and face your adversity head-on.
Life can be slow and monotonous, but it's important to keep moving forward.
Sometimes we wish things were different, but we have to work with what we have.
Change is constant and inevitable, and we must adapt accordingly.
We are confined to our natural surroundings and must find ways to thrive within them.
I will be there for you and remain reliable through thick and thin.
Stay calm and composed when things are going well.
I will not abandon you when things fall apart.
I learned how to remain dependable and support others from your example.
My upbringing and past taught me how to love and connect with others.
There is a power or higher force that we cannot control but can find solace in.
I have respect and admiration for the person who has influenced me so deeply.
Things will become easier once we've overcome certain obstacles.
In the aftermath of a disaster or tragedy.
Referring to the black community and the beauty of darker skin tones.
Going underwater.
Represents makeshift arrangements that still offer a sense of stability.
Taking risks and enjoying life, despite the danger.
The inspiration and influence of those older and more experienced than us.
An allusion to reincarnation, a second chance starting over.
Coming back to the surface after experiencing hardship.
Showing gratitude for the world that has allowed us to survive and thrive.
Being thankful for everything that we have and acknowledging our place in the universe.
Our environment and experiences offer an opportunity to learn and grow in order to survive.
We must persevere even when things get tough.
Reflecting on our lives and past experiences.
Referring to the end of childhood and the beginning of adulthood.
Giving a shout-out to friends or individuals who have impacted their life.
Acknowledging people they love or admire.
Showing appreciation for the promise of eternal life or a legacy that will live on after death.
Preparing to take action, possibly to run or escape.
Trying to escape the pain and hardship of life through various vices or addictions.
Engaging in reckless behavior or coping through unhealthy means.
Looking for comfort or pleasure in the face of adversity.
Jokingly considering the benefits of eternal life or a lasting legacy.
Accepting that life, with all its joys and hardships, is finite and will eventually end.