Following its release, both Ocean and the mixtape have developed a cult following. Subsequently, Ocean collaborated with artists Beyoncé Knowles and Jay-Z after they were introduced to the mixtape through West. Recording artist Kanye West was reportedly a fan of the mixtape, which led to Ocean appearing on the album Watch the Throne. Controversy arose in March 2012 over the song 'American Wedding', a remake of the song 'Hotel California' by American rock band Eagles. The mixtape appeared on several music critics' and publications' end-of-year albums lists.

In addition, his 2012 performance at the Coachella Music Festival included several live renditions from the release including 'Strawberry Swing' and 'LoveCrimes'. Ocean embarked on a solo concert tour through North America and Europe to promote the record, playing a total of 7 shows. Both songs received music videos directed by Australian director Nabil Elderkin. Two singles were released from the aborted EP version: 'Novacane', and 'Swim Good'. However, the release of the EP was indefinitely delayed in July 2011 and has since been cancelled. In May 2011, Def Jam announced its plans to release the mixtape as an EP on July 26, 2011. The cover features a picture of a bright orange 1980s BMW E30 M3, Ocean's 'dream car', in plain sight amidst lush greenery. Following its release, the mixtape received rave reviews from music critics. The songs mostly focus on interpersonal relationships, personal reflection, and social commentary. Nostalgia, Ultra has a unique R&B aesthetic and features surreal themes and nostalgic lyrics. After joining alternative hip hop group Odd Future in 2010, he self-released the mixtape, without initial promotion. Ocean was inspired to make the mixtape, after Hurricane Katrina in his native New Orleans and his subsequent relocation to Los Angeles. and occasionally nostalgia/ultra) is the debut mixtape by American recording artist Frank Ocean. Nostalgia, Ultra (stylized as nostalgia,ULTRA.

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