Music and Identity

Known as "Freedom Day," Juneteenth celebrates the emancipation of slaves in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865. (Credit: USAG-Humphreys, Flickr.com) For Black people, Juneteenth is a big deal. The event commemorates when roughly 250,000 Black individuals enslaved in Galveston, Texas, were told life-changing news on June 19, 1865: They were finally free. While former President Abraham Lincoln had officially emancipated slaves two years prior, those in Galveston were kept in the dark — until Union Gen. Gordon Granger arrived, at long last, to share the good news. Though many years have passed, the event remains deeply meaningful for Black Americans, as it is a reminder of the cruelties they’ve overcome since slavery. It also acknowledges the fact that there remains a great deal of work to do. To celebrate the wins, and to energize everyone for the work that lies ahead, we've crafted a Juneteenth playlist. In it, we’ve included songs that spark feelings of joy, pride, strength and freedom. Because, in the words of grassroots activist Tanesha Grant: “Juneteenth is for us… Juneteenth symbolizes the hope that my children and grandchildren will be free. It’s Black Joy and Black tenacity to survive.” (This article, first published June 18, 2024, has been updated for 2025.)

Music and Identity

Celebrate Juneteenth with 6 Black Pride Anthems

Reflecting on Joni Mitchell’s Woman-Inspired Journey as ‘Blue’ Turns 50

The Story Exchange

Music and Identity

Celebrate Juneteenth with 6 Black Pride Anthems

Reflecting on Joni Mitchell’s Woman-Inspired Journey as ‘Blue’ Turns 50

The Story Exchange

Follow