Race tensions and tragic events surrounding those tensions have sadly been a prevalent and constant occurrence throughout this country and the world over the past couple of years. Like many, singer Dev Hynes also known as Blood Orange has his own personal feelings on the matter. He explains on Facebook "I have some things going on inside my mind, here's some new music I've made to try and describe it." The result is a beautiful stroke of keys percolated by his spoken word as he discusses the literal meaning of his last name and an identity crisis that has been a fluid source of frustration and inspiration throughout life.
Listen to "Do You See My Skin Through The Flames?" along with the full lyrics below.
"frustration and depression breaks me down
descending like they wanted underground
the further our journey the less you care
that’s why you laugh at Kanye when he’s talking in a chair
but the same conversation but replaced,
is good enough for laughs or a smile on your face,
happy to be singing all our songs to survive,
but when we need help, you don’t get off til 5.
it’s powerful to feel so alone in a group
let me break this down for you and tell you how we feel again,
your fear is all you hold on to, so when you see me it’s not fair
i have nothing left to give when you don’t notice what is wrong,
Charleston left me broken down but it’s just another day to you
i ain’t got nothing left to give you
and i’m too tired, to even talk about it
while watching the fire,
tasting pain coming from a place of truth
to be another in a messy world
to feel like giving in another turn?
you wouldn’t listen if i told you
so how can i become anyone?"
