I took a slight hiatus, but the break has not stopped me from documenting my late-night thoughts!

Here we are again, wide awake in the still of night, where our minds wander freely while everyone else catches their Z’s. September and October have been a whirlwind of late-night thoughts, and in true Insomnia Hours fashion, I’m inviting you to dive in with me. Let’s get into it.

1: The Art of Black Horror (September 13, 2:42 AM)

Black horror films have been on my mind lately. Candyman, Get Out, His House—these aren’t just thrillers; they’re mirrors reflecting the fears and traumas our communities face. I thought about how Jordan Peele reshaped the horror genre by making social issues the real monster. Black horror isn't just about jump scares; it forces us to confront the horrors within society—racism, gentrification, and generational trauma.

2: The Power of Quiet Moments in Nature (September 30, 4:07 AM)

One night, I found myself thinking about how often we overlook the healing power of quiet outdoor moments. It’s so easy to get lost in the city’s chaos, but those small encounters with nature—like catching the sunrise or hearing the rain tap against the window—are the ones that keep me grounded. There’s beauty in being still, and for me, it’s a reminder that the most powerful moments aren’t always loud; sometimes, they whisper.

3: Nostalgia and the Comfort of Old R&B (October 9, 1:39 AM)

There’s something about 90s R&B that hits differently in the dead of night. One minute, I’m scrolling Spotify, and the next, I’m down a rabbit hole of Toni Braxton, Brandy, and Jodeci. These songs aren’t just music—they’re a time machine. They remind me of late-night drives, old friendships, and a version of myself I hadn’t thought about in a while. It’s wild how music has a way of making the past feel so present.

4: Reinventing Yourself with Every Season (October 15, 3:47 AM)

As the leaves change, I thought about how we have this opportunity to reinvent ourselves with every season. Fall feels like a fresh start—like the reset button we didn’t know we needed. It’s in these small transitions, from one season to the next, that I’ve learned the most about myself. Reinvention doesn’t have to be drastic; sometimes, it’s as simple as picking up a new habit or letting go of things that no longer serve you.

Special Mention: Revisiting the Horror in Hip-Hop (October 28, 12:55 AM)

The Geto Boys’ We Can’t Be Stopped (1991) album cover features Bushwick Bill being wheeled through a hospital after a traumatic incident where he was shot in the eye. Dressed in a hospital gown with visible injuries, Bill’s appearance captures the group’s raw, unfiltered approach. The image symbolizes resilience, aligning with the album's title, and reflects the harsh realities the Geto Boys often explored through their music—violence, trauma, and survival in inner-city life. This striking cover became a defining part of their legacy in hip-hop.

This spooky season also had me thinking about the Geto Boys' iconic track, "Mind Playing Tricks on Me." It opens with that haunting line, "I sit alone in my four-cornered room staring at candles..."—a vivid image of isolation and paranoia. The song taps into psychological horror, where the real monsters are anxiety, fear, and the mental toll of surviving harsh environments. The Geto Boys gave us more than a hit—they delivered an eerie narrative about the human psyche unraveling under pressure.

Hip-hop’s relationship with horror is deeper than jump scares or creepy vibes; it tells the stories of everyday fears, making you feel seen even when those fears linger quietly in the dark. This isn’t just seasonal—it’s the kind of horror that sticks with you.

Final Thoughts

These past two months have been a deep dive into everything from eerie album art to late-night 90s RnB listening sessions. There’s something special about these quiet hours—it’s where the mind finds space to reflect on the past, untangle the present, and dream about the future.

And speaking of reflections, if you're vibing with this spooky energy, check out my “31 Days of Black Horror” list. Originally shared in my notes, I’m reposting it for those who missed it. This list is a perfect companion to dive into the chilling stories and complex narratives that resonate with the Black experience—one film at a time.

Until next time, stay curious, stay creative, and remember: you’re never truly alone in these late-night wanderings.

Shadé

Here we are again, wide awake while the world sleeps. This month’s Insomnia Hours is another dive into those late-night thoughts that swirl around when the rest of the city is catching Z’s. Whether you’re sipping tea, coffee, or something stronger, let’s explore what kept me up in August.

1: Missy Elliott’s Visual Masterpieces (August 3, 2:13 AM)
Missy Elliott’s music videos started playing in my mind. The creativity, the futuristic vibes, and the boldness—Missy set the bar high. Her visuals weren’t just ahead of their time; they’re timeless. She showed us that Black women could take over any space, making it their own.

2: The Everlasting Impact of The Fugees (August 10, 1:47 AM)
Lauryn Hill was on my mind again, but this time, it was the entire Fugees crew. "The Score" is more than just an album; it’s a cultural cornerstone. As I replayed "Ready or Not,” I wondered how they redefined what a hip-hop group could be—mixing rap, reggae, and soul into something unforgettable.

3: Good Times and the Struggle Narrative (August 17, 3:22 AM)
It was 3:22 AM when I thought about Good Times. This show was a staple in so many Black households, but looking back, it’s hard not to feel some way about the constant portrayal of Black struggle. The Evans family was always in survival mode, battling poverty and systemic obstacles. While it was essential to show the realities of Black life, it also made me question why our stories often center around pain and hardship.

4: The Legacy of Harlem’s Apollo Theater (August 24, 2:55 AM)
I found myself thinking about the Apollo Theater. This legendary venue has seen the likes of James Brown, Ella Fitzgerald, and others who’ve shaped Black music and culture. The Apollo isn’t just a stage; it’s a symbol of Black excellence and resilience. It’s where legends were born and where history was made again and again.

Special Mention: Labor Day Parade vs. Carnival in the Caribbean (August 31, 1:15 AM)
One night, I started thinking about the Labor Day Parade in Brooklyn. It’s a vibrant celebration, no doubt, with pulsating beats, colorful costumes, and a strong sense of community.

But let’s be honest—it doesn’t quite compare to the authenticity and sheer energy of Carnival in the Caribbean. Over there, Carnival is a full-body experience, a celebration deeply rooted in history, culture, and pure, unfiltered joy. The Labor Day Parade captures some of that spirit, but it’s like tasting a watered-down version of a rich, flavorful dish. The essence is there, but it’s just not the same.

Final Thoughts

These late-night musings are just a snapshot of the thoughts that keep me awake at night. From Missy Elliott's iconic beats to the legendary stage of the Apollo Theater, it’s fascinating how these moments in Black culture weave into my insomniac mind.

And speaking of late-night thoughts, I can’t forget to mention the recent Love Island reunion. Honestly, it was a bit of a letdown—meh and anticlimactic. For all the hype, it just didn’t deliver the drama or closure I was hoping for. It was like waiting for a fireworks show and getting a couple of sparklers instead. Not every episode can be a blockbuster, I guess. More on this in my Reality Bytes series….

Anywhooooo

I hope this edition of Insomnia Hours stirred up some nostalgia or sparked a new thought in you. Whether you’re reflecting on the past, dissecting the present, or looking ahead to the future, I’m glad you’re here with me in these quiet hours.

Until next time, stay curious, stay creative, and remember—you’re not alone in your late-night wanderings.

Shadé

Fellow people who can’t sleep, this one is for youuuuuuuu!

Welcome to the first edition of Insomnia Hours, where I share my late-night thoughts and reflections on whatever comes to mind in Black culture. As someone who often finds herself awake in the wee hours, I figured, why not turn these sleepless nights into something meaningful?

At the end of each month, I will reflect on major themes in Black creativity and nostalgia that swarm my mind between 1:00 AM and 4:00 AM. So grab a cup of tea—or even coffee, no judgment here—and join me on this journey through the night.

1: Shanice's “I Love Your Smile video;”

There's something special about music videos from the '90s and early 2000s. Shanice's "I Love Your Smile" popped into my head this week. The bright colors and infectious joy Shanice has felt reminiscent of simpler times. Watching the video put into perspective how much we lost while transitioning into this new digital age. Written at 2:13 AM

2: Lauryn Hill Never Goes Out of Style

Lauryn Hill's "Ex-Factor" has been playing in my head all this week. Something about that raw emotion and the soulful delivery touches my very core. More importantly, though, the music is timeless. It speaks to relevant themes today just as much as when this album was first dropped. That is a lesson in the power of vulnerability and authenticity in art. Written at 3:45 AM.

3: We are living (Ooh) Single (Hey)

It was 3:00 AM on Tuesday, and I was watching some old episodes of "Living Single." These shows shaped my understanding of Black identity and community. They meant so much more than mere entertainment; the characters seemed like family, and their stories hit my core level. "Living Single" said it's okay to be quirky, successful, struggling, and in love—all simultaneously. And with that, its influence extends beyond today, as seen by its arrival in so many other shows, and remains relevant.

4: Ann Lowe deserves her flowers

I was supposed to be asleep, but I watched a talk about the late Ann Lowe at about 4:02 AM one night. Ann Lowe, a pioneering Black fashion designer, made significant contributions to the fashion world despite facing numerous obstacles. Fashion has always been needed in our community: expression, resistance, showing creativity, and pride. Lowe’s legacy is a testament to the power of perseverance and talent, showcasing the incredible impact of Black designers on fashion history.

Special Mention: It’s Carnival Time In Antigua!!

Fun fact: Antigua’s carnival is a 13-day festival annually in late July and early August, making it one of the longest carnivals.

One night, around 1:50 a.m., I dreamed of Antigua's Carnival. Vibrant colors, infectious music, and a joyful celebration of culture and heritage—Carnival in Antigua is a time of unification and expression when the whole island comes alive with energy and pride. It reminds one of the importance of celebration and the deeply bound cultural roots that keep us together. It is a real treat for the senses and soul if you can attend.

Final Thoughts

These late-night thoughts are just a small view of the many other thoughts swirling around in my head when the world sleeps. I hope you enjoyed this first edition of the Insomnia Hours and that I may have stirred some nostalgia or new knowledge in you.

Feel free to share your thoughts.

May your nights be filled with inspiration and fewer sleepless hours.

Until next time, stay creative—keeping the art in everything, even at 3 AM.

Shadé