It's hard to believe that it has been six years since the summer that we looked at everything through orange colored shades.
Six years since the front page of every publication had those bold white letters plastered across them.
Six years since the screencap that changed the world and inspired a change not only in the world of music, but also across a generation of youth.
Six years since the release of channel ORANGE.
I'll go on the record saying that this album will remain one of the most important albums of my generation, of our time. There's something that's not only so musically diverse about Frank Ocean, but also authentic. Whether it's the fact that this album features an iconic Andre 3000 verse, a flawless transition, or is the reason an iconic Vine exists: channel ORANGE is truly timeless.
Here are the six best times to get deep in your feels with Frank Ocean and reminisce on the summer of 2012:
- When you're driving alone at night with your sunroof open on a main road in your city that has a few stoplights, but isn't busy at this time of the night. You have to have something on your mind, and maybe something to smoke, if you want the optimal experience in this situation.
- Riding in an car provided by a ride sharing app after a breakup when it's raining. The second that "Bad Religion" comes on you will feel like you're in an indie movie. You also definitely will not be the first person to cry in the backseat of this driver's car so it's the perfect time to let it all go.
- When you're getting your freak on. "Pink Matter": you're welcome.
- Swimming in a pool with your friends in the middle of the summer when the party is starting to wind down. "Super Rich Kids" probably doesn't describe any of you, but it's fun to pretend. The mellow song will also encourage that everyone begin to wind down, so it's the perfect thing to turn on when you're ready for everyone to get the fuck out, but you're worried that they'll think you're rude if you ask them to leave.
- The time when you move your coffee table out of your living room and want to pretend that you're a contemporary dance choreographer on "So You Think You Can Dance". Turn up "Forrest Gump" and let loose for a minute.
- Any time you need to do something creative. This album is so well written and so complex that it is seriously impossible to listen to it and not feel inspired. It's also great if you're on of those people who just likes to have something playing in the background while you work because this album doesn't have to be listened to closely to be felt.
