From August 10th to August 11th, 2024, over 1,000 creatives woke up early, clocked out of work, gathered with friends, and prepared for the 24-hour challenge to come. As submissions roll in, the day passes in the blink of an eye. Musicians put their final touches on their songs, passing around the master file for one final polish from all collaborators. Visual artists eagerly await for the few final minutes of their render to pass with no issues. All participants take one big, deep breath as they upload their files and hit "Submit". Out of 562 music submissions and 71 art submissions, 45 shining tracks and one cover design were selected and organized with care into one final album. It captures a glimpse of the evolving creativity not just of our community, but of creatives everywhere.
First and foremost, All Nighter is about joy; the payoff is well worth it, but the purpose is in the process. It's so much more than making a song or cover art with a friend—it's human connection. It's learning how to push yourself beyond your creative limits. It's taking pride in your hard work. It's meeting new people who happen to love the same musicians and artists as you. Creating what makes you happy is a joy that keeps the wheels of creativity turning; we all owe it to ourselves to love what we make, and make what we love.
All proceeds from All Nighter, Vol. 9 will be donated to the National Alliance for Eating Disorders, a charity that provides referrals, education, and support to individuals experiencing eating disorders and their loved ones.