Frank Ocean Says Not Submitting for Grammys is 'My Colin Kaepernick Moment'

Frank Ocean is notorious for maintaining a low and mysterious profile, but the singer has now risen for his first interview in years. He spoke to the New York Times for a candid chat, where he opened up about leaving Def Jam, independently releasing his Blonde album and why he decided to not submit any music for Grammys consideration.

“That institution certainly has nostalgic importance," the two-time Grammy winner said. "It just doesn’t seem to be representing very well for people who come from where I come from, and hold down what I hold down.” 

He continued, “I think the infrastructure of the awarding system and the nomination system and screening system is dated. I’d rather this be my Colin Kaepernick moment for the Grammys than sit there in the audience.” Last month, friend and collaborator Kanye West said he won't attend the awards show if they don't nominate Ocean. But it was already known the singer wasn't eligible for any nominations due to the purposeful snub.