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.
I Feel California/Novacane
Frank Ocean Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
How molly must feel word
Molly must feel, word know what I mean
Know what I mean
Coming to you live, from California
California we can drive half way across
The stateside of CaliforniaWould you mind if I let the
Top down to feel the California
And all I see in the sky
Is sapphire blowing clouds of diamonds
Ive got nothing, got nothing
Got nothing to do nothing to do
The beach is kind of average
But the mushrooms are magic
When we've got nothing got nothing got
Nothing to do nothing to do
Im signing off the network I hope
You're down to try to
There must be something something
Something to do
Coming to you from California California
We can fly half way across the world now
From California would you mind if I let the
Top down to feel the California
And if you ask me why the birds
Sing then you know it's true
There's never nothing nothing nothing to do
In these lyrics, Frank Ocean beckons listeners into a sensory exploration of California, juxtaposing the carefree essence of being in one of the most iconic states with a sense of existential ennui. The opening lines, where he references "how molly must feel," introduce a poignant metaphor. Molly, the popular party drug known for enhancing sensory experiences and promoting feelings of euphoria, serves as a vehicle for understanding the high-octane emotions and escapism associated with California living. The repetition of “know what I mean” emphasizes a shared understanding, inviting listeners to connect with the euphoric sensations he describes, while simultaneously hinting at a hollow undercurrent beneath that vibrant experience.
As Ocean continues, he describes driving through California, a hallmark experience that symbolizes freedom and exploration. The imagery of driving with the top down conjures an intimate connection with the land and sky, as if he seeks to immerse himself fully in that atmospheric beauty. The use of phrases like “sapphire blowing clouds of diamonds” paints a vivid picture of the Californian sky, transforming it into a canvas of precious colors and textures. This idyllic imagery contrasts sharply with his admission of having “nothing to do,” which introduces a stark tension. Here, he encapsulates that dizzying duality of Californian life: a place filled with beautiful distractions yet ultimately devoid of substance, where despite the promise of adventure, boredom looms in the background.
The lines about the “average” beach juxtaposed against “magic” mushrooms further illustrate this complex relationship with escapism. The beach—often regarded as a quintessential Californian experience—feels mundane, indicating a sense of disillusionment with typical pleasures. Yet, the mention of mushrooms introduces an element of psychedelic exploration, implying that while traditional enjoyment may fall flat, there are alternate pathways to experience heightened states of consciousness. This suggests that the search for meaning could lead one to unconventional experiences. The entire passage conveys a sense of searching for excitement beyond surface pleasures, realizing that conventional attractions might provide a mere mirage of fulfillment.
In the closing repetition of “there’s never nothing nothing nothing to do,” Ocean reflects on the paradox of modern existence—abundant activities available yet still faced with an overwhelming sense of nothingness. The act of signing off from the network symbolizes a desire to disconnect from social expectations and a frantic pace of life, hinting at a longing for moments of authenticity amidst the chaos. Ocean’s whimsical yet vacuous reflections on California articulate a yearning for deeper connection and exploration of self in a landscape buzzing with overindulgence. Ultimately, through a balance of sensory delight and existential inquiry, he offers an introspective glimpse into the human condition as it navigates the highs and lows of life and pleasure in America’s cultural oasis.
Line by Line Meaning
This is how molly must feel
This sensation resembles the euphoric high experienced under the influence of the drug MDMA, or 'molly.'
How molly must feel word
It's analogous to that sense of unfiltered joy and connection that molly brings to one's experience.
Molly must feel, word know what I mean
This feeling resonates with the understanding of joy and freedom associated with euphoric moments.
Know what I mean
Asking for affirmation of this shared feeling and experience of ecstasy.
Coming to you live, from California
Announcing a direct and vibrant experience stemming from the iconic and sun-soaked state of California.
California we can drive half way across
In California, the vast landscapes allow us to travel freely, embracing exploration.
The stateside of California
Referring to the unique culture and lifestyle that defines California within the United States.
Would you mind if I let the
Seeking permission to embrace spontaneity and enjoy the moment.
Top down to feel the California
Lowering the car's convertible roof to immerse myself in the California atmosphere, feeling the freedom it offers.
And all I see in the sky
Observing the beauty of the open sky, which symbolizes limitless possibilities.
Is sapphire blowing clouds of diamonds
Describing the stunning, sparkling blue sky and the fluffy, bright white clouds that resemble precious gems.
I've got nothing, got nothing
Expressing a feeling of emptiness or lack of plans, yet embracing it.
Got nothing to do nothing to do
A repetition that emphasizes the absence of obligations, inviting a sense of freedom.
The beach is kind of average
Realizing that even the iconic beaches don’t always meet expectations or seem remarkable.
But the mushrooms are magic
Referencing psychedelic experiences, suggesting an escape from the mundane through enhanced perception.
When we've got nothing got nothing got
In moments of idleness, our surroundings can still offer deep, transformative experiences.
Nothing to do nothing to do
Continuing the theme of leisure and inviting spontaneous adventure.
I'm signing off the network I hope
Disconnecting from the pressures and distractions of modern life for a moment of clarity.
You're down to try to
Hopeful that a companion is ready to engage in new experiences or adventures.
There must be something something
Believing that amid the downtime, opportunities for enjoyment and connection can still arise.
Something to do
An assertion that with a little creativity, engaging activities can be found.
Coming to you from California California
Reiterating the vibrant essence of California as a backdrop for these experiences.
We can fly half way across the world now
Emphasizing the sense of freedom and possibility that California represents, making the world feel smaller.
From California would you mind if I let the
Again seeking permission to indulge in experiencing life freely, celebrating California's spirit.
Top down to feel the California
Evoking the joy of being in the open air, fully experiencing the essence of California life.
And if you ask me why the birds
Invoking nature's beauty as a point of contemplation in a larger existential inquiry.
Sing then you know it's true
Recognizing the inherent joy and truth found in nature and the environment around us.
There's never nothing nothing nothing to do
Ultimately affirming that even in moments of apparent inactivity, life always offers opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@thegoodvibeMusic
Where do you live? 🌍
@jasonclyburn9088
New york🥴
@emmanuelarejola474
Philippines here 🇵🇭🌅
@uwhatami827
Apartment
@cedellacharette7613
Florida 🎉
@simplysharon8136
Ohio ❤
@melaningoldielocs352
This song takes me somewhere…I don’t know what I’m feeling but I have it on repeat
@candybro1005
Ikr
@Jaylahh_
I thought I was the only oneee😂
@survivalmode7032
Novacaine