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. 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. 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.
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. It's a great album to reflect on life to, so many healing lyrics in this album that'll help you release whatever it is you're going through.
Kaytranada's 99.9% was an explosion of electronic, dance, and rnb. Released in 2014, this album is so vibrant but still such a vibe for the night time.
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.