Frank Ocean Praised By Def Jam Founder Russell Simmons

The singer Frank Ocean has been praised by Def Jam's co-founder Russell Simmons, for his recent decision to reveal that his first love was a man. Ocean is a collaborator with the rap group Odd Future, whose most prominent member, Tyler The Creator has often been accused of writing homophobic lyrics. Yesterday (July 4, 2012) Simmons wrote a response to Frank Ocean's intimate blog post, entitled "the Courage of Frank Ocean Just Changed The Game!"

In the post, Simmons declared that "today is a big day for hip-hop." Then, in a comment addressed to Frank, he wrote "I am profoundly moved by the courage and honesty of Frank Ocean. Your decision to go public about your sexual orientation gives hope and light to so many young people still living in fear. These types of secrets should not matter anymore, but we know they do, and because of that I decided to write this short statement of support for one of the greatest new artists we have." Many sectors of the hip-hop community have struggled with accusations of homophobia; Ocean's admission that his first true love was with a man will not have been an easy one to make. He was reportedly planning to publish the open letter in the liner notes of his forthcoming album but instead chose to publish it on his blog.

Simmons ended his own note by saying "His gifts are undeniable. His talent, enormous. His bravery, incredible. His actions this morning will uplift our consciousness and allow us to become better people. Every single one of us is born with peace and tranquility in our heart. Frank just found his.

Frank, we thank you. We support you. We love you."