Did Frank Ocean Drop out of Coachella? What Happened?

There is a unique duality that Frank Ocean possesses in that he is simultaneously a world-renowned success yet also a fairly consistent recluse. The artist hasn’t released a project since 2016’s “Blonde,” and he has notoriously shied away from performing his music live for a number of years.

That’s why when news broke that Frank would be headlining Coachella 2023, fans were overjoyed. However, in the final moments leading up to the show, it seems as though a lot of critical things about his performance changed, leaving attendees and livestream viewers online fairly upset. So, did Frank drop out of Coachella? What happened during his set that has people talking? Let’s unpack the known details.

Those who were in attendance during the first weekend of Coachella 2023 got what they paid for: Frank did indeed take to the stage. However, it appears as though the entire situation was plagued with problems, many of which allegedly stemmed from Frank’s handling of it all.

The Festive Owl reported that sources at Coachella claim Frank made last-minute changes that resulted in a complete stage design redo. Apparently, Frank had an entire ice skating rink built and ready to go onto the stage (along with trained skaters who would accompany him). The publication added that Frank scrapped the entire idea at the last minute, resulting in a complete disassembly and his delayed performance. The show then ended early to comply with local curfew.

It was also noted by fans in attendance that Frank was the only headlining artist at the festival not selling any merchandise through their vendors. The online Coachella merchandise store does not have any Frank-related products listed either.

“It just didn’t seem like he wanted to be there but was obligated to be,” their source stated. “Everything (including him) fell apart last minute.”