Juneteenth, short for June 19th; the literal combination of “June” and “nineteenth”, is the date on which the last slaves were freed in 1865. It is a date that has always been significant to African-Americans, as it is the true date that signifies freedom and independence for us. Almost 100 years separate July 4, 1776 and June 19, 1865. The former is the date that the United States gained independence; however, black people were still enslaved at the time. The Emancipation Proclamation was signed in 1862 and went into effect on New Year’s Day 1863; however, it was not until June 19, 1865 that all slaves were freed. For this reason, in recent years specifically, I have felt some type of way about celebrating the 4th of July. Have I still gone to the beach, attended cookouts, and viewed fireworks in celebration of the 4th? Yes. Have I always simultaneously been conscious of the fact that my ancestors actually were not free on July 4, 1776? Yes. This has been the topic of many a conversation with family and loved ones over the years. It is yet another example of the unique dichotomy of being a black American.
In essence, Juneteenth is a day that is synonymous with pride and celebrating freedom. As a people, though, we are not fooled. We know, as evidenced by present times (police brutality and killings, lynchings – still taking place in 2020) that the freedom, justice, and equality that we are due is still being bought, fought, and paid for.
With all of this being said, I’ve compiled a short list of songs that are suitable for today…your very own Juneteenth soundtrack. These are songs that run the gamut in genre and era. You’re welcome!
The Songs
Diana Ross’ “Brown Baby” is a cover of a standard that was written by Oscar Brown, Jr. about the high hopes for our people, despite our current and past struggles. It also addresses the fact that our life path will have more obstacles, but it also offers encouragement with lyrics like “walk with your head held high” and “walk down that freedom road”. Walk down that freedom road, indeed!
“Stand Up” by Cynthia Erivo: No explanation is needed for this one. If you saw the 2019 film Harriet, you should already know why it’s included. This song, which is about slaves taking freedom before it was granted, had me in tears in the movie theater at the end of the movie. If you didn’t, just listen to the words. Can you hear freedom calling?
“Freedom” is an amazing song from the soundtrack to Panther that was performed by various black female artists, including Queen Latifah, Vanessa Williams, and SWV. Movie soundtracks used to be everything, and the ‘90s had some of the best. The film and this song were a huge part of the socially conscious resurgence in the ‘90s, the song being one of the last times that various artists came together to record a socially conscious song such as this, and one of the only time that all women did. It was a beautiful showcase of female unity.
“New Agenda” is one of my favorite Janet Jackson songs! Shoutout to Chuck D. with the assist. On it, she sings about the need for a “new agenda”: one that recognizes the contributions and excellence of black people, specifically black women. These lyrics mean a lot to me, especially: History hidden from me to hide my identity, so I’d never feel I am somebody. This speaks to the fact that a lot of our history is not taught and essentially erased from history books, etc. This is why it is even more important for us to know our history and the achievements of our ancestors, as well as pass it down to our children and generations to come.
“Optimistic” by Sounds of Blackness is one of my favorite songs ever. Written by, for, and about us, and one of many great Jam and Lewis productions. I have loved it since I was little because I thought it was pretty, but I gained a bigger appreciation of it as I got older. At face value, the song is generally about being positive in the face of obstacles; however, I have thought of the song more deeply recently. Though we, as a people, have been through and continue to endure a lot, we still remain optimistic that change is forthcoming.
“Black Man” by Stevie Wonder: I already wrote about this song previously, so I’ll just highlight these lyrics here: We pledge allegiance All our lives To the magic colors Red, blue and white But we all must be given The liberty that we defend For with justice not for all men History will repeat again It’s time we learned This world was made for all men In other words: No one is free until everyone is free.
“Someday We’ll All Be Free” by Donny Hathaway is another song that I consider a favorite of mine. The title and lyrics should speak for themselves. Donny’s vocals are also top notch, of course. I honestly can’t even pinpoint standout lyrics from it, because they are all relevant. I just love this song for so many reasons, and it’s very appropriate for Juneteenth and beyond.
“Say It Loud (I’m Black and I’m Proud)” by James Brown: Perfect Juneteenth song, as it perfectly celebrates Black pride…whether you’re speaking of emancipation, the Civil Rights movement, or current times. No further explanation needed!
4 thoughts on “Black Music Month: Juneteenth Soundtrack”
#Juneteenth ❤🖤💚✊🏾
After reading your post, I created a playlist to play during a juneteenth awareness rally that one of my colleagues organized. I included the following songs you mentioned: Stand Up, Freedom, Optimistic, and (Say It Loud)I’m Black and I’m Proud.
Keep writing and sharing your gift of commentary. You’re great!
I am glad you liked it and were inspired to include those songs sis! And as always, I appreciate and love you/your support. 🙂
Speak the truth Ashley…until we’re all free and thriving none of us are truly free. I love and appreciate the knowledge that you bring to every one of your entries. It is so refreshing to know that there are some young people thinking critically about the future of black America! I love the song choices too…very appropriate!
Thanks ma! It’s in my blood. 😉 Love you and appreciate your continued support too.
#Juneteenth ❤🖤💚✊🏾
After reading your post, I created a playlist to play during a juneteenth awareness rally that one of my colleagues organized. I included the following songs you mentioned: Stand Up, Freedom, Optimistic, and (Say It Loud)I’m Black and I’m Proud.
Keep writing and sharing your gift of commentary. You’re great!
I am glad you liked it and were inspired to include those songs sis! And as always, I appreciate and love you/your support. 🙂
Speak the truth Ashley…until we’re all free and thriving none of us are truly free. I love and appreciate the knowledge that you bring to every one of your entries. It is so refreshing to know that there are some young people thinking critically about the future of black America! I love the song choices too…very appropriate!
Thanks ma! It’s in my blood. 😉 Love you and appreciate your continued support too.