The album we all return to most when in need of an exhilarating cry has finally been certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America.
Blonde, the 2016 classic by Frank Ocean, actually hit the mark earlier this month but didn't get the public adoration for that accomplishment it deserved until producer Vegyn noted the certification on Twitter Tuesday. The RIAA website, as spotted by the Fader, lists a formal certification date of July 9.
In the years since Blonde's Endless-accompanied release, Ocean has popped up for an assortment of song-stealing guest features and one-offs. Last year, for example, he hit us with everything from "Chanel" to "Biking "featuring Tyler the Creator and Jay-Z. Back in February, Ocean dropped a gorgeous "Moon River" cover.
Later this year, UC Berkeley students will have a chance to explore Ocean's music from a collegiate perspective thanks to Brain Like Berkeley. The student-taught course, which promises "an insight into the artistry of Frank Ocean," will also dive into the singer's skilled approach to challenging "toxic masculinity and gender politics."
The course will be available for registration for UC Berkeley attendees starting next month. In the meantime, revisit Genius' in-depth look at the references found in the official video for Blonde single "Nikes" below:
