Usually, when someone is asked, "What are your hobbies?" they’ll say something like, “I like to draw,” “I love reading,” or “I enjoy sewing.” But if I were to answer that question, it’d be: late-night cruising to music. Yes… that is my hobby and, honestly, probably in my top five of hobbies. My feet are literally tingling right now from the excitement I feel just thinking about driving with no destination, in the city, to an amazing album late at night. I know that may not be the typical answer, and it may not even sound fun… but hear me out. Think about it. Driving very late at night or early morning (between midnight and 3 a.m.). The quiet streets, the feeling of freedom, the glow of streetlights passing by, and barely any cars around—aka no traffic. Then, pair that with the perfect soundtrack, and you’re singing out loud with the windows rolled down because there’s no one really around. If you don’t feel like singing, it’s also the perfect time to reflect, talk to God, enjoy the views of your city, or even find new spots you’ve never noticed before. Doesn’t that sound like a great time?
The most important part to partake in this hobby is the music. It can not be too loud—so no, DON’T STOP, POP THAT, POP THAT. It also shouldn’t be too calming, because we don’t want you falling asleep. Late-night cruising calls for tracks —songs that flow with the night, keeping you alert but relaxed, letting you drift while still anchoring you in the moment. The sounds that enhance the dim lights and empty streets, that feel just right when the world is quiet. Here are some albums that capture that vibe perfectly.
Control is for the girls that are in their twenties, lost, and trying to figure life out. So if you are ever having one of those nights where you are feeling confused about life, whether it be a relationship, school, what you want to do with it. This is the perfect album to ponder upon for that night. It was SZA’s debut album in 2017. An album about exploration of self-identity and vulnerability, making it an ideal companion for late-night driving. This album reflects the complexities of modern relationships, inner conflicts, and the journey of self-discovery, all of which are the woes of every 20 something at one point in life. The seamless blend of R&B, neo-soul, and alternative elements creates a rich sonic landscape that enhances the cruising experience. Some of my personal favs on the album are “Broken Clocks” and “Garden (Say It Like Dat)”.
I feel like, in this generation, Brent Faiyaz is one of the very few artists that is able to master that old-school type of R&B feel with a modern twist. And that’s exactly what Sonder Son gives. Released in 2017, this album infuses a unique blend of R&B and soul, with its smooth soundscapes and reflective lyricism. Similar to Ctrl, it’s a reflective album but with less self-discovery—more of a reflection on what he’s been through rather than what he's currently experiencing. Sonder Son is the quintessential R&B album for late-night cruising, because everyone knows that R&B and nighttime go hand in hand.
If you’re ever in Atlanta around midnight to 3 a.m. and hear someone singing a jazzy song at the top of their lungs… it’s probably me singing a track from this album. Whenever I play Choose Your Weapon, I can’t help but sing. This album by Hiatus Kaiyote is an alternative take on soul, R&B, and jazz that showcases the band’s ability to fuse various genres seamlessly. This 2015 release features rich instrumentation, intricate rhythm patterns, and the ethereal vocals of singer Nai Palm, making this album a treat for the soul. The lyricism is incredible; each word is placed perfectly for every single song and carries such depth, no matter how small the word is. The album’s key tracks, such as “The Lung” and "Borderline with My Atoms," exemplify the perfect balance of energy and calm, making them ideal for late-night driving sessions.
Kaytranada's 99.9% represents an exploration of electronic, dance, and rnb. Released in 2014, this album features a variety of sound textures adding smooth yet punchy energy to the quiet hum of the night. funky basslines with rich synths and entrancing beats. It’s an album that feels alive with possibility, capturing those in-between hours where everything feels just a bit more vibrant.Write your text here...
Say what you want about Kanye, but one thing this man is going to do is make GOOD MUSIC... get it? Good music... because he had a label called GOOD Music? Well, I'm not even sure if they're active anymore... but back to the topic. This album was a lifesaver for me in 2020, when the world had stopped, and I went slightly insane. Nobody understood what I was going through at the time—not my mom, family, friends, or therapist. I didn't know who else to turn to, but I remembered my great-great-grandma always telling me about God and Jesus. So I gave Him a shot, and my life has been transformed since then (in the best way, of course). This album was a part of my connection to God. It helped me meditate on His words and contributed to the healing of my soul. Jesus Is King brings a more contemplative yet grand energy to a late-night cruise, wrapping the quiet darkness in themes of faith, reflection, and redemption. The album's gospel-inspired production and uplifting melodies feel powerful in the stillness of night. A soundtrack for not just the road but for the journey within.