Juneteenth Celebration Music: Planning a Houston Event
Juneteenth began here. On June 19, 1865, Union Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston and issued General Order No. 3, announcing that enslaved people in Texas were free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
Texas made Juneteenth a state holiday in 1980, and it became a federal holiday in 2021. In Houston, formerly enslaved people bought land in the Third Ward in 1872 to celebrate it; that land is Emancipation Park. Today companies, churches, schools and families mark the day with gatherings, and music is at the center of them.
Music That Fits the Day
R&B and soul
Motown, soul and R&B classics for a celebration that brings generations together.
Jazz
Jazz grew from African American musical traditions. A jazz ensemble is ideal for a reception, brunch or dinner.
Gospel and spirituals
For a program, service or reflective moment. Ask about vocalists when you request a quote.
A DJ or band-and-DJ combo
For a cookout or community party that runs all afternoon.
Songs Often Heard at Juneteenth Celebrations
- “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by James Weldon Johnson and J. Rosamond Johnson
Written in 1900 and known as the Black national anthem. Often sung to open a program.
- “A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke
A reflective soul classic.
- “Respect” by Aretha Franklin
Joyful, powerful, and a dance-floor favorite.
- “Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now” by McFadden & Whitehead
Upbeat and celebratory.
- “Before I Let Go” by Frankie Beverly & Maze
The cookout classic that gets every generation up.
- “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire
Pure joy to close out the party.
Avalon R&B and Soul Acts
The rhythm and blues acts Avalon Music books. Open any of them for song lists and samples.
Planning Tips
Juneteenth falls in the heat of a Houston summer. For outdoor events, the band needs a covered area and protection from extreme heat. Plan a backup indoor space, too.
If your program includes speakers, a reading or a moment of reflection, share the running order with the band so the music supports it.
June is also a busy wedding month, so book early for a weekend date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Juneteenth celebrated on June 19?
On June 19, 1865, General Order No. 3 was issued in Galveston, announcing freedom for enslaved people in Texas. The name combines "June" and "nineteenth."
Can the band perform "Lift Every Voice and Sing"?
Ask for it with your requests. Most bands can learn a song they do not already play if they have 4 to 6 weeks' notice.
Is live music a good fit for a company Juneteenth event?
Yes. A jazz or R&B ensemble works well for a lunch, reception or employee celebration, and can shift from background music to dancing as the event goes on.