Juneteenth: Why It Matters & How To Celebrate

On June 19, 1865, Union Troops arrived in Galveston, TX to announce the last enslaved Black people in Texas were finally granted freedom according to the law. Juneteenth is a great day of historical importance, not just for Texas but for the entire United States. It’s a day to acknowledge, honor, and celebrate the legacy of Black resilience and freedom that is often overlooked and excluded from history.

To celebrate the liberation that Juneteenth commemorates, we’ve compiled a list of songs that reflect on Black history and culture and spark conversation to continue the fight for equality.

Songs to Celebrate to:

1. Alright - Kendrick Lamar

2. Say It Loud - I’m Black and I’m Proud - James Brown

3. The People - Common

4. Lovely Day - Bill Withers

5. Get Up Stand Up - Bob Marley

6. Brown Skin Girl - Beyonce ft. Blue Ivy, Wizkid, & SAINt JHN

7. Shea Butter Baby - Ari Lennox

8. Crooked Smile - J. Cole

9. Freedom - Pharrell Williams

10. Keep Ya Head Up - Tupac

Songs to Reflect to:

1. I Can’t Breathe - H.E.R.

2. Song33 - Noname

3. State of the Union (STFU) - Public Enemy

4. Lockdown - Anderson.Paak

5. Reality Check - Swae Lee

6. Bouncin’ - KYLE

7. The Bigger Picture - Lil Baby

8. Snow on tha Bluff - J. Cole

9. Black Rage - Lauryn Hill

10. Don’t Shoot - The Game