Watch Way Black When
- 2011
- 1 Season
Way Black When is a television show that airs on TV One. Hosted by actor and comedian Affion Crockett, this program takes a comedic look at African-American culture from the 1970s through the 2000s. Each episode features various segments that touch on topics such as music, fashion, movies, and television shows from decades past, as well as current events that have a nostalgic connection to those eras.
The show is structured around a panel of guests, who are usually celebrities or experts in the areas discussed on the show. These guests provide commentary on the various topics, offering insights about their own experiences growing up during the time periods in question. They also engage in humorous banter with the host and each other, often reminiscing and comparing notes about their own favorite cultural touchstones from the past.
One regular segment on the show is "Drop the Needle," in which the panelists listen to and discuss classic songs from a given era. This segment is particularly fun, as the guests often have strong emotional connections to the music and can share personal stories about how a certain song impacted their lives. Another recurring segment is "Fashions of the Times," which zeroes in on the iconic styles of a particular decade. Here, the guests examine photos and videos of celebrities and everyday people from the era in question, pointing out the most memorable and interesting fashion moments.
One standout aspect of Way Black When is its use of archival footage. The show is packed with clips from old TV shows, movies, music videos, and news broadcasts, which help transport viewers back in time to the eras under discussion. The guest panelists provide context and commentary on these clips, often pointing out things that might have been overlooked at the time. For instance, they might analyze a scene from a sitcom and talk about how it reflects the prevailing attitudes of the time period, or they might call out a fashion trend that was particularly ubiquitous in a certain year.
Overall, Way Black When is an entertaining and educational show that celebrates African-American culture throughout the decades. Its mix of humor, nostalgia, and cultural analysis makes it a great program for viewers of all ages, particularly those who grew up during the eras discussed on the show. The pacing of the show is brisk, with each segment flowing seamlessly into the next, keeping the audience engaged throughout. Host Affion Crockett is a charismatic and lively presence, keeping the tone light and fun while still delivering insightful commentary on the topics at hand. Meanwhile, the guest panelists bring a diverse range of perspectives and experiences to the table, making for lively and engaging conversations that are always worth tuning in for.