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.
Superpower
Frank Ocean Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
That feels different
From when your hands are in mine
That's just the way it is
And when my voice is screaming out to my own ears, mm
That feels different from when I hear yours
Now that's just the way it is
And when I'm standing in this mirror after all these years
From what your eyes show you
I guess I didn't see myself before you
Moving forward
(Superpower)
A subtle power
(Superpower)
A tough love
(Superpower)
Like a shark
(Superpower)
Ooh, like a bear
A tough love
And I thought the world would move on
I thought the world would revolve
Without us, without us, without us, without us
But nothing I know could slow us down
Couldn't slow us down
I thought I could live without you
'Cause nothing I know can break us down
They can't break us down
And just like you I can be scared
And just like you I hope I'm spared
But it's tough love
I know you feel it in the air
Even the babies know it's there: tough love (superpower)
The laws of the world tell us what goes sky
And what falls, it's a superpower (superpower)
The laws of the world never stopped us once
'Cause together we got plenty superpower
(Superpower)
A subtle power
(Superpower)
A tough love
(Superpower)
Oh, like a shark
(Superpower)
Ooh, too much to bear
(Superpower)
And I thought the world would move on
I thought the world would revolve
Without us, without us, without us
But nothing I know could slow us down
Couldn't slow us down
I thought I could live without you
But together we got plenty power
But nothing I know
Couldn't break us down
They couldn't break us down
Yes, we can
Couldn't break us down
They couldn't break us down
Yes, we can
Couldn't break us down
They couldn't break us down (yeah we can)
Couldn't break us down (we can make it baby)
They couldn't break us down (yes we can)
Couldn't break us down
They couldn't break us down, down
The lyrics of Frank Ocean's song "Superpower" describe the profound connection and unique bond between two individuals. The first verse explores the difference in sensation between holding one's own hands and holding the hands of another person. It suggests that while both experiences are meaningful, there is a distinct feeling that arises when two hands come together.
The second part of the verse delves into the disparity between hearing one's own voice and hearing the voice of a loved one. It implies that hearing the voice of someone they care for holds a greater weight and impact than hearing their own. This comparison signifies the way our connection to others can alter our perception of ourselves.
The chorus introduces the concept of a "superpower," which is represented as a subtle yet formidable force. It parallels this superpower to various elements of nature, such as a shark or a bear, indicating its strength and dominance.
The second verse portrays the singer's belief that the world would continue to function without their presence. However, they realize that nothing they know could hinder the strength of their connection. This realization suggests that their bond possesses an incredible power that cannot be easily dismissed or broken.
The bridge reinforces the idea of a "tough love" that exists between the two individuals. It emphasizes that even though they may feel fear, they both hope to be spared from any negative forces. It also emphasizes that this tough love is felt by everyone, as even infants can sense its presence.
The final part of the song expresses the resilience and unbreakable nature of their bond. Despite external forces and challenges, they remain unshakable. The repetition of "Couldn't break us down" reinforces their conviction and determination to withstand any obstacles they may face together.
Ultimately, "Superpower" is an ode to the unique and transformative strength of a deep bond between individuals. It highlights the power of love and connection, emphasizing that together, they possess a formidable force that cannot be easily overcome or diminished.
Line by Line Meaning
When the palm of my two hands hold each other
The feeling of self-comfort and stability that comes from my own self-care and inner strength.
That feels different
It creates a distinct sensation and emotional experience.
From when your hands are in mine
Compared to the support, love, and connection I feel when I am with you.
That's just the way it is
This contrast in feelings is an inherent and unchangeable aspect of our relationship.
And when my voice is screaming out to my own ears, mm
The personal struggle and internal conflict I face when dealing with my own thoughts and emotions.
That feels different from when I hear yours
The unique impact your voice has on me, bringing clarity and understanding to my own self-expression.
Now that's just the way it is
This contrast in perspectives and experiences between us is an inherent and unchangeable aspect of our relationship.
And when I'm standing in this mirror after all these years
Reflecting on my growth and self-discovery throughout the years as I face my true self.
What I'm viewing's a little different
The self-perception I have gained from our relationship has shifted and evolved.
From what your eyes show you
Contrasting with how you perceive and see me, revealing the impact you have had on my self-image.
I guess I didn't see myself before you
I didn't fully understand or appreciate my own worth and value until I met you.
Moving forward
Continuing to grow and progress together as a couple.
(Superpower)
Referring to the unique strength and influence we possess as a pair.
A subtle power
An underlying force that guides and impacts our relationship in a gentle, nuanced way.
(Superpower)
Referring to the unique strength and influence we possess as a pair.
A tough love
Our love is not always easy, but it is resilient, enduring, and unfaltering.
(Superpower)
Referring to the unique strength and influence we possess as a pair.
Like a shark
Our love is fierce, determined, and unstoppable like the predatory nature of a shark.
(Superpower)
Referring to the unique strength and influence we possess as a pair.
Ooh, like a bear
Our love is protective, powerful, and capable of great strength and resilience like a bear.
A tough love
Our love is not always easy, but it is resilient, enduring, and unfaltering.
And I thought the world would move on
I believed that life would continue without the need for our love and presence.
I thought the world would revolve
I believed that the world would continue to function and evolve without us being a central part of it.
Without us, without us, without us, without us
Without our love, partnership, and collective impact.
But nothing I know could slow us down
No external force or circumstance can diminish the strength and resilience of our love.
Couldn't slow us down
Our love remains steadfast and unyielding, unaffected by external pressures.
I thought I could live without you
I once believed that I could exist and be fulfilled without your presence in my life.
'Cause nothing I know can break us down
No matter what challenges or obstacles we face, our love remains unbreakable.
They can't break us down
External forces, people, or circumstances cannot weaken or destroy our love.
And just like you I can be scared
Similar to you, I also experience fear and vulnerability in our relationship.
And just like you I hope I'm spared
Similar to you, I have the desire and hope to be protected from harm or pain.
But it's tough love
Despite the challenges and difficulties, our love remains strong and enduring.
I know you feel it in the air
The palpable presence and impact of our tough love can be sensed and felt by both of us.
Even the babies know it's there: tough love (superpower)
Even young children can sense the strength and uniqueness of our love, recognizing it as a powerful force in our lives.
The laws of the world tell us what goes sky
The rules and conventions of society dictate what is considered successful or valuable.
And what falls, it's a superpower (superpower)
Our ability to defy societal expectations and limitations, transcending the norms and achieving greatness together.
The laws of the world never stopped us once
Despite societal constraints, rules, or expectations, we have never been held back or restricted in our love and potential.
'Cause together we got plenty superpower
Our combined strength, resilience, and love provide us with an abundance of power to overcome any obstacles.
But nothing I know
Regardless of my knowledge or understanding.
Couldn't break us down
Cannot weaken or destroy our love and connection.
They couldn't break us down
External forces, people, or circumstances could not weaken or destroy our love.
Yes, we can
We have the ability and power to endure, overcome, and thrive.
Couldn't break us down
Cannot weaken or destroy our love and connection.
They couldn't break us down
External forces, people, or circumstances could not weaken or destroy our love.
Yes, we can
We have the ability and power to endure, overcome, and thrive.
Couldn't break us down
Cannot weaken or destroy our love and connection.
They couldn't break us down (yeah we can)
External forces, people, or circumstances could not weaken or destroy our love, confirming our resilience.
Couldn't break us down (we can make it baby)
Cannot weaken or destroy our love and connection. We have the strength to overcome any challenges.
They couldn't break us down (yes we can)
External forces, people, or circumstances could not weaken or destroy our love. We have the power to triumph.
Couldn't break us down
Cannot weaken or destroy our love and connection.
They couldn't break us down, down
External forces, people, or circumstances could not weaken or destroy our love, emphasizing our resilience.
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Pharrell Williams, Frank Ocean, Beyonce Knowles
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@jakeykiernan7168
Lyrics
When the palm of my two hands hold each other
That feels different
From when your hands are in mine
That's just the way it is
And when my voice is screaming out to my own ears
That feels different
From when I hear yours
Now that's just the way it is
And when I'm standing in this mirror
After all these years
What I'm viewing is a little different
From what your eyes show you
I guess I didn't see myself before you
Moving forward
Super power
A subtle power
Super power
A tough love
Super power
Like a shark
Super power
Like a bear
A tough love
And I thought the world would move on
I thought the world would move on
Without us, without us, without us
But nothing I know could slow us down
Couldn't tow us down
I thought I could live without you
'Cause nothing I know can break us
Down
They can't break us down
And just like you I can't be scared
Just like you I hope I'm spared
But it's tough love
I know you feel it in the air
Even the babies know it's there
Tough love
Super power
The laws of the world tell us what goes sky
And what falls
It's a super power
Super power
The laws of the world never stopped us once
'Cause together we got plenty super power
Super power
A subtle power
Super power
A tough love
Super power
Like a shark
Super power
Too much to bare
Super power
And I thought the world would move on
I thought the world would move on
Without us, without us, without us
But nothing I know could slow us down
Couldn't tow us down
I thought I could live without you
But together we got plenty power
Nothing I know can break us down
They can't break us down
Yes we can
Couldn't break us down
They couldn't break us down
@Nicholas-kt4ul
"Superpower"
[Verse 1: Beyoncé]
When the palm of my two hands hold each other
That feels different
From when your hands are in mine
That's just the way it is
And when my voice is screaming out to my own ears
That feels different from when I hear yours
Now that's just the way it is
And when I'm standing in this mirror after all these years
What I'm viewing is a little different
From what your eyes show you
I guess I didn't see myself before you
Moving forward
[Bridge: Beyoncé & (Frank Ocean)]
(Superpower)
A subtle power
(Superpower)
A tough love
(Superpower)
Like a shark
(Superpower)
Ooh, like a bear
A tough love
[Chorus: Beyoncé & Frank Ocean]
And I thought the world would move on
I thought the world would revolve
Without us, without us, without us, without us
But nothing I know could slow us down
Couldn't slow us down
I thought I could live without you
'Cause nothing I know can break us down
They can't break us down
[Verse 2: Beyoncé]
And just like you I can be scared
Just like you I hope I'm spared
But it's tough love
I know you feel it in the air
Even the babies know it's there: tough love (Superpower)
The laws of the world tell us what goes sky
And what falls, it's a superpower (Superpower)
The laws of the world never stopped us once
'Cause together we got plenty superpower
[Bridge: Beyoncé & (Frank Ocean)]
(Superpower)
A subtle power
(Superpower)
A tough love
(Superpower)
Oh, like a shark
(Superpower)
Ooh, too much to bear
(Superpower)
[Chorus: Beyoncé & Frank Ocean]
And I thought the world would move on
I thought the world would revolve
Without us, without us, without us, without us
But nothing I know could slow us down
Couldn't slow us down
I thought I could live without you
But together we got plenty power
Nothing I know can break us down
They can't break us down
[Outro: Beyoncé & (Frank Ocean)]
Yes, we can
Couldn't break us down
They couldn't break us down
Yes, we can
Couldn't break us down
They couldn't break us down
Yes, we can
Couldn't break us down
They couldn't break us down
Yes, we can
Couldn't break us down
They couldn't break us down
@TroyTalks.
I always wonder why people acted like "Formation" was the first time she did an activist-type song when SUPERPOWER came before.
@bluelily3514
Becuase people weren't listening before.
@kaylawalls2954
superpower came so formation could run !
@reneeh520
"Y'all haters corny with that illuminati mess" but she put a "666" right here in this video ....🤨
@DeeDee-hx1km
@@reneeh520 and who told you that 666 was wrong or bad?
@tink6225
@@reneeh520 y'all will believe anything you see
@LadyTamaraG
Beyonce' is the smartest artist there is. She played along with the industry for all these years and once she reached heights that no other artist will ever reach, she started showing her "true" power being a Black woman......I love it! Formation has long been in the making. The timing was now. I wasn't a big Yonce' fan until now. Formation is my fave song. Being a proud Black woman from Louisiana, I feel the lyrics.....
@JazPrice
Finally someone gets it!
@alliyahmitchell2328
yes couldn't have said it in a better way
@alexisjones25
+Jaz Price omg this time I thought she was saying I ride on alligators😂