Frank Ocean readies new album, ‘Boys Don’t Cry’

After a brief hiatus, Frank Ocean has finally revealed details of his upcoming second studio album.

The R&B singer, whose debut release, channel ORANGE, created waves back in 2012 after Ocean stated it referred to his relationship with a man, is set to release Boys Don’t Cry on 15th July this year. Never one for straightforwardness, he announced the news via a picture on his Tumblr with the caption “I got two versions. I got twooo versions…”

A rep for the singer confirmed the release to Billboard and added that Ocean will also launch his own publication this July. When pressed for the names of both titles, however, the rep declined to comment.

Expectations are high for the singer’s sophomore album after the immense success of channel ORANGE, which was met with rave reviews from critics and landed many accolades – including being named the best album of 2012 by Billboard, The Guardian and Entertainment Weekly to name just a few. It also won Best Urban Contemporary Album at the 2013 Grammy Awards.

The Thinkin Bout You singer has been working on the new record with renowned producers Hit-Boy (responsible for Beyoncé’s XO), Pharrell Williams and Danger Mouse. He recently released a new track titled Mesmerise but there is no indication yet if this will make an appearance on Boys Don’t Cry. Ocean has recently had a guest spot on Beyoncé’s self-titled album as well as making appearances on Jay Z’s Magna Carter Holy Grail and John Mayer’s Paradise Valley.

Words: Kevin Long