Controversial, Grammy-nominated Tyler, the Creator drops a ‘flex-fest’ on his brief single “Okra.” He also drops a number of pop cultural references, not to mention raising more questions about his sexuality.

“But, I really do not care the cost ‘cause okra.” Tyler, the Creator had a big year in 2017.  After releasing a number of controversies and incredibly unapologetic albums, he showcased some maturity and greater range on Flower Boy.  Also, depending on how far you read into the album, he may be part of the LGBT community.  Focusing on the quality of the album, it earned him a Grammy nomination. Sure, he didn’t win, but who was beating Kendrick Lamar’s DAMN.? Moving beyond flowers, he returns with a new single named after a vegetable, “Okra.”

First and foremost, “Okra” is a flex track – mostly.  From the jump, Tyler, the Creator seeks to prove he’s the man.  He asserts on the intro and eventual chorus, “I cut off some friends, where they go…Fuck these niggas man.” On the first verse, he mostly references his money, but also drops alludes to Django Unchained, McDonalds, and of course, himself:

“…Flower Boy is buzzin’

Grammy-nominated, tell yo cousin ain’t nobody fuckin’ with him.”

The second verse adds references to Ron Artest, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and Minute Maid. Perhaps it’s the third verse that’s most pertinent to the curious caseof Tyler’s sexuality. Also, the third verse has more things to dissect. He seems to join the bandwagon in admiration for young, burgeoning, Academy Award-nominated actor, Timothée Chalamet. 

“Tell Tim Chalamet to come get at me

Skin’ glowing, clear of acne.”

Looking back on Flower Boy, he did admit to “kissing white boys.” Even with a fancy for Chalamet, he later references his “bitch mixed like jambalaya.” Sexual fluidity much?

Final Thoughts

Arguably, “Okra” doesn’t reach the glories of Flower Boy.  This is a relatively simple, bass-heavy, minimalist, distorted production, even though at times there’s more flare.  However, Tyler the Creator still has plenty to offer.  There’s a lot of flexing, but with more reference made to sexuality, that in itself is enough to make “Okra” intriguing.

Tyler, the Creator • Okra– Single • Columbia • Release: 3.30.18 

Photo Credit: Columbia