Ocean’s set was the singer’s first live show in six years. Yet despite many fans just happy to see him return, there was widespread criticism over the ‘chaos’ of the performance.
Not only did his set start an hour later than expected, Ocean had also scrapped an onstage ice-rink at the last minute, and was reportedly suffering from an injured ankle.
The additional injury sustained to his leg following that first performance is the official reason being given for Ocean pulling out of his second Coachella set.
A statement from one of the singer’s reps read: “Frank Ocean will not be performing at weekend 2 of Coachella.
“After suffering an injury to his leg on festival grounds in the week leading up to weekend 1. Frank Ocean was unable to perform the intended show but was still intent on performing, and in 72 hours, the show was reworked out of necessity.
“On doctor’s advice, [Ocean] is not able to perform weekend 2 due to two fractures and a sprain in his left leg.”
In a direct message from Ocean himself, via the rep, the singer added: “It was chaotic. There is some beauty in chaos. It isn’t what I intended to show but I enjoy being out there and I’ll see you soon.”
Frank Ocean's speech during his Coachella set.https://t.co/GN8Ly4GaHN
— Odd Future: Fan Page (@OddFuturePage) April 17, 2023
Despite some of the criticisms, Ocean did give an update on his next album since 2016’s Blonde – although the nature of his announcement won’t be music to everyone’s ears.
Speaking five songs into his set, Ocean told fans at the show: “I want to talk about why I’m here because it’s not about a new album,” he said, pausing, before adding, “not that there’s not a new album… just not right now.”
Despite seven years of waiting, therefore, fans will have to wait just that bit longer.
As reported by Variety, Ocean will be replaced by Blink-182 – a message that was confirmed by the band’s Tom DeLonge, who wrote on his Instagram, “See you Sunday night”.
The California rockers played a surprise set during the opening weekend of Coachella, in a set replete with classics, and which marked the first live show that DeLonge, Mark Hoppus and Travis Barker have played together since 2014.
