11 Underrated Frank Ocean Songs: Songs You Missed

Hey fellow music enthusiasts, TBone here from Level Tunes! 🎵 As a DJ and an avid music aficionado, I’ve always had a soft spot for tracks that fly under the radar.

Frank Ocean, a master of storytelling and soulful melodies, has a treasure trove of hits, but there are some gems that often don’t get the spotlight they deserve.

I’ve been jamming to Frank for years, and I felt it was time to share a curated list of 11 underrated tracks that have resonated with me on a deep level.

Whether you’re a DJ looking for fresh vibes or just a fan like me, dive in and discover some overlooked Frank Ocean magic

Here are the underrated Frank Ocean songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Frank Ocean Songs

Underrated Frank Ocean songs in a list format:

1. “Pilot Jones”

Channel ORANGE (2012, Def Jam Recordings)

“Pilot Jones” is a brilliantly produced blend of R&B and neo-soul, weaving together a story of dependence and longing. The song, off of Frank’s debut album “Channel ORANGE,” showcases his impeccable lyrical prowess. I chose this track because, amidst the larger hits of the album, “Pilot Jones” tends to fade but truly stands as a testament to his early mastery. The song features the amazing keyboard work by Buddy Ross, which adds a certain depth to the track.

2. “Rushes”

Endless (2016, Boys Don’t Cry)

“Rushes” is a beautifully constructed track from Frank’s visual album, “Endless.” It’s a subdued, intimate experience that encapsulates the listener in waves of emotion. The soft guitar plucks accompanied by Frank’s raw vocals make it a unique piece. Alex G’s guitar work really shines here. This pick is a personal favorite due to its ability to evoke nostalgia and vulnerability.

3. “Higgs”

Endless (2016, Boys Don’t Cry)

Another gem from “Endless,” “Higgs” is a poignant exploration of relationships and change. The song transitions from melancholic vibes to a more electronic-infused rhythm. The beautiful thing about “Higgs” is its layered complexity—every listen reveals something new. It’s an underrated masterpiece that perfectly complements the narrative of the visual album.

4. “Alabama”

Endless (2016, Boys Don’t Cry)

A short yet impactful track, “Alabama” lasts a mere 1:25 minutes but leaves a lasting impression. Frank reflects on his youth, crafting a hauntingly nostalgic atmosphere. The layered vocals, possibly hinting at multiple voices from his past, create an ethereal effect. This track is chosen for its concise yet poignant storytelling.

5. “Wither”

Endless (2016, Boys Don’t Cry)

“Wither” is a poetic reflection on love, life, and the inevitability of change. It’s a heartfelt ballad with acoustic undertones, a testament to Frank’s versatility as an artist. What stands out in “Wither” is the rawness of the emotions conveyed. Jazmine Sullivan’s backing vocals add a richness to the song, making it one of the hidden gems of “Endless.”

6. “Mitsubishi Sony”

Endless (2016, Boys Don’t Cry)

“Mitsubishi Sony” captures a more upbeat rhythm compared to other tracks on “Endless.” Its electronica undertones and Frank’s rhythmic vocals give it a unique flavor. I love this track for its futuristic vibes and how it plays around with varied soundscapes, offering listeners an expansive sonic journey.

7. “Seigfried”

Blonde (2016, Boys Don’t Cry)

Off his critically acclaimed album “Blonde,” “Seigfried” is a raw introspection of Frank’s internal conflicts. The song’s ethereal instrumentals and Frank’s soulful voice combine to offer a dreamlike listening experience. The track features ambient sounds and guitars by Spaceman. This is one of those songs that resonate differently with each listener, speaking to the universality of the emotions it captures.

8. “Skyline To”

Blonde (2016, Boys Don’t Cry)

A summery, psychedelic track, “Skyline To” explores fleeting moments and the passage of time. Featuring Kendrick Lamar’s backing vocals and a lush instrumental, the song stands as a testament to Frank’s experimentation with sound and narrative. Amidst the more prominent tracks of “Blonde,” this song often gets overlooked but definitely deserves more recognition.

9. “Pretty Sweet”

Blonde (2016, Boys Don’t Cry)

“Pretty Sweet” starts with a chaotic blend of sounds that gradually flow into a more harmonized rhythm. It’s a metaphorical journey from chaos to order, reflective of life’s unpredictable nature. This track stands out for its unique production and the raw emotions it encapsulates.

10. “Hublots”

Endless (2016, Boys Don’t Cry)

“Hublots” is another short track from “Endless” that exudes a certain rawness. The juxtaposition of Jazmine Sullivan’s vocals with Frank’s musings creates a beautifully haunting atmosphere. It’s a track that delves deep into introspection and the myriad emotions associated with reminiscing about the past.

11. “Comme des Garçons”

Endless (2016, Boys Don’t Cry)

A track that exudes an infectious rhythm, “Comme des Garçons” showcases Frank’s ability to blend diverse genres seamlessly. The lyrics touch upon fleeting romances and transient emotions, making it a relatable track for many. It’s a song that, while brief, leaves an indelible mark.

Fun Facts: Underrated Frank Ocean Songs

1. “Pilot Jones”

Fun Fact:

The chorus of “Pilot Jones” was actually one of the first things Frank wrote when he moved to L.A. It’s incredible to think that such a captivating song had its roots at the beginning of his professional journey in the city.

2. “Rushes”

Fun Fact:

The song’s lyrics, “First time I ever saw you,” and the general atmosphere of the song, contribute to the theory that “Rushes” chronicles the ephemeral nature of first encounters and the indelible impressions they leave.

3. “Higgs”

Fun Fact:

“Higgs” (known as “Rushes To” in the visual album) includes a sample from the German film Victoria, specifically from a song called “Them” by Nils Frahm.

4. “Alabama”

Fun Fact:

“Alabama” was recorded in 25 takes. This showcases Frank’s dedication to achieving a raw and unfiltered sound, capturing genuine emotion in each rendition.

5. “Wither”

Fun Fact:

“Wither” showcases Frank’s hope for his future family, with lines like “Hope a garden grows where we dance this afternoon.” It reflects his musings on generational love and continuity.

6. “Mitsubishi Sony”

Fun Fact:

This song’s title is intriguing, blending two major Japanese brands. While it’s left to interpretation, some fans speculate it’s a commentary on consumerism or the blending of cultures in modern society.

7. “Seigfried”

Fun Fact:

“Seigfried” references Elliott Smith, an American singer-songwriter, with the line “I’d do anything for you (in the dark),” alluding to Smith’s song “Ballad of Big Nothing.”

8. “Skyline To”

Fun Fact:

Frank Ocean’s love for cars is well-known. “Skyline To” includes subtle automobile references, such as “summer’s not as long as it used to be” — a possible nod to convertibles or drives during summer nights.

9. “Pretty Sweet”

Fun Fact:

Towards the end of “Pretty Sweet,” you can hear children singing, which provides a beautiful contrast to the earlier chaos. This choir effect reinforces the themes of growth and change present throughout “Blonde.”

10. “Hublots”

Fun Fact:

“Hublots” intertwines with the next track on Endless, “In Here Somewhere.” Their seamless blend showcases Frank’s intention for Endless to be consumed as a single, continuous experience.

11. “Comme des Garçons”

Fun Fact:

The title “Comme des Garçons” is French for “Like Boys” and is also the name of a famous Japanese fashion brand. Frank often plays with dual meanings in his titles, bridging fashion, language, and emotion.

Thanks for joining me on this sonic journey through Frank Ocean’s lesser-known masterpieces. Keep vibing, and remember, there’s always a hidden gem waiting to be discovered in every album.

Thanks for reading.

TBone