Juneteenth, which commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, is celebrated on the anniversary of the June 19, 1865, order by Major General Gordon Granger proclaiming freedom for enslaved people in Texas. The order has come to be regarded as the end of slavery in the U.S. 

Over the years, freedom has been a popular topic for songwriters and performers. We have many excellent options for this week’s Sharp Notes Monday selection. But we feel Richie Havens’ performance of “Freedom” at Woodstock is the best choice. 

Tasked with having to kill time while other acts navigated their way to the festival, Havens reached back to an old spiritual for inspiration, improvised some new lyrics and delivered a performance that remains one of Woodstock’s highlights. 

As part of our “Sharp Notes, Sharp Thoughts” music and social media project, we share a song every Monday to start your week.

View previous Sharp Notes Monday selections.

Visit our “Sharp Notes, Sharp Thoughts” music and social media page to learn more about the project and view videos of our presentations.

Categories: Jandoli Institute, Music and Social Justice, Sharp Notes Monday, Sharp Notes Sharp Thoughts

Tags: Sharp Notes Monday