On February 16th, 2011, America got it’s first official bombardment of Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All, and like the Drake album, nothing was the same. To this day, it’s one of the most electrifying TV performances I’ve ever seen.
I distinctly remember my first time hearing “Sandwiches,” the hypnotic and anarchistic anthem from Tyler the Creator and his ragtag crew of misfits and rappers. I was in the height of my teenage rebellion, and stumbling through the internet for music that met my feelings, caught my attention, and could help me find my way.
I found Tyler the Creator’s Bastard on the indie music site Stereogum and heard something unforgettable. I heard unapologetic, brash, rough-around-the-edges rap music, penned by a musician who not only went against the grain of the norm, broke any and all barriers and boundaries in his way.
The songs “Sandwiches,” “Radical,” “Orange Juice,” “VCR,” and so many more are carved into my mind, as were the letters OFWGKTA into my desks at school. I was ready to break barriers and smash through walls of my own, and Tyler was the soundtrack of the movement.
I owe apologies to my parents for blasting these songs at unreasonable volumes at unprecedented hours. I also owe a huge debt of gratitude to Tyler the Creator and the members of Odd Future for showing me that I can be different, I can be angry, and I can be accepted. Because at the end of the day, what’s life without a little rebellion.