Popular artist and R&B singer Frank Ocean is all set to release his 12-year-old album "Channel Orange" on vinyl for the first time. But hold up, there’s more to this story as the album might not look the same due to a fresh new look for the cover, which is due to some ongoing legal drama. Reportedly, Frank Ocean is also in constant talks with the famous film studio A24, and will be seen making his directorial debut soon.
The Long, Long Wait for Channel Orange on Vinyl
After 13 long years, Frank’s iconic debut album, Channel Orange, is officially getting its first-ever vinyl release. In 2012, when Frank Ocean’s "Channel Orange" dropped, it was a game-changer. Tracks like Thinkin Bout You, Pyramids, and Super Rich Kids had everyone hooked with their mix of R&B, soul, jazz, and that dreamy, cinematic vibe. The album, post its release, hit number two on the Billboard 200 and won a Grammy for Best Urban Contemporary Album in 2013, and basically became the soundtrack of the early 2010s for a lot of us. Critics loved it, fans loved it, and it’s still ranked as one of the best albums of the decade.
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While in 2019, when vinyl was making a comeback into the world of music, Frank even teased fans in a 2019 interview with Dazed, saying a vinyl drop was coming ASAP. However, fast forward to June 27, 2025, Frank Ocean announced that his album, Channel Orange, is finally available on vinyl.
A New Album Cover? Blame the Legal Stuff
For the release of this vinyl, the original cover, with its bold orange background and minimalist text, has been scrapped for a brand-new design. Instead of the classic look, we’ve got a grid of 12 photos—four rows, three columns—showing a young Frank rocking his signature bandana. But why the sudden change?
Back in 2012, Frank’s album Channel Orange was released under Def Jam Recordings, but his relationship with the label wasn’t exactly smooth sailing. He was frustrated with their lack of support for his solo work, which is why he dropped his Nostalgia, Ultra mixtape for free on Tumblr in 2011. By the time Channel Orange came out, tensions were high, and eventually, Frank bought back the rights to his masters. That move gave him control over his music, but it likely came with some legal strings attached, especially when it came to things like the original album artwork. The cover change for the vinyl release is probably tied to those rights.
Where to Get the Vinyl
If you’re ready to snag that Channel Orange on vinyl, head over to Frank’s Blonded web store. It’s $69 (INR 6,500), and there's a wait time for it as well, which means you’ll have to wait a few weeks for it to ship.
About the Author
Priyanshu Ranjan
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