Meaning of “Pink + White” by Frank Ocean

Frank Ocean’s “Pink + White” uses a lot of metaphorical language which can be interpreted in various ways. However, the song seems to be primarily about memorializing a dead loved one or a relationship that is deteriorating. And the lyrics of the track feature intimate details about their time together. For instance, they grew up together and in fact were close companions during Hurricane Katrina. And they did the type of things that children do, such as climb trees and dive into the hurricane’s floodwater. They also both had an affinity for Michael Jackson and did bad boy things, like steal and smoke cigarettes. Most importantly perhaps is that they also seem to have been related, as Ocean refers to “granny” in the sense that this person shared that title with both of them.

These recollections most likely refer to one of Frank Ocean’s cousins. According to the song, this person seems to have died in a swimming pool. Frank has made it clear that this was someone he learned a lot from. So the overall sentiment of the song is that the singer greatly misses this particular individual.

Facts about “Pink + White”

• Frank Ocean wrote the song with Pharrell Williams. The pair also worked together to produce the track.
• August 20, 2016 was the official release date of “Pink + White”.
• It is the third track on Ocean’s second studio album Blonde (which is also entitled blond).
• The vocals of the renowned American singer Beyoncé is featured on this track. However, Beyoncé isn’t officially featured on the track.
• The track contains a sample. It samples the 1980s song “Sketch for Summer” by The Durutti Column.

Was this released as a single from the album Blonde?

No. Blonde produced only one single titled “Nikes”.

Had Beyoncé and Frank Ocean worked together before “Pink + White”?

Yes. This wasn’t their first collaboration. They had worked together at least twice prior to this track. For example, they collaborated on Beyoncé’s 2013 “Superpower”.