Juneteenth National Independence Day (also known as Jubilee Day, Emancipation Day, Freedom Day, and Black Independence Day) is this Sunday. The holiday commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Originating in Gavleston, Texas, it has been celebrated annually in various parts of the United States since its 1865 origination when Union Soldiers brought the news of freedom to enslaved black people. The day was recently recognized as a federal holiday on June 17, 2021.

To honor Juneteenth and Black Music Appreciation month, we have a playlist of songs that bring hope, faith, and the promise of freedom from artists like Samora Pinderhughes, Carlos Simon, and Lara Downes. You can also check out our 2021 Juneteenth playlist of music from artists like the Staple Singers, James Brown, Nina Simone, and Curtis Mayfield to soundtrack your celebrations this weekend.

Let's observe the holiday with a special set of songs. For today’s 9:30 Coffee Break, what songs do you want to hear to celebrate Juneteenth?

Respond with your song ideas in the comments below.

Have an idea for a Coffee Break topic? Submit your idea for a future theme and browse past Coffee Breaks in our archive.

Songs Played:
Beyoncé – Freedom feat. Kendrick Lamar
Leon Bridges – Sweeter feat. Terrace Martin
The Temptations – Ball of Confusion
Sault – I Just Want to Dance
Nina Simone – To Be Young, Gifted and Black
Andra Day – Rise Up
The Sounds of Blackness – Black Butterfly