Record Labels Such as Sony and Warner Commemorate Juneteenth

This past month, Juneteenth has gained more recognition and if you ask us, it’s long overdue. 

In case you’re out of the know, let us fill you in. Juneteenth (which is celebrated on June 19th), commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. While some cities, companies and brands have scheduled special events for this holiday, others have even proposed celebrating it in place of Independence Day. 

Record labels, including Sony Music and Warner Records, have declared Juneteenth an official company holiday.  The decision to officially commemorate Juneteenth is just one of these companies’ recent attempts to fight racial inequality. Earlier this month, Sony Music launched a $100 million fund in support of anti-racist initiatives. 

Other music companies are celebrating the holiday by commemorating it on their platforms. In a statement given to Billboard, Spotify representatives explained, “Juneteenth will be a paid company holiday for all U.S. Spotify employees to support the Black community and give this day the recognition it deserves. Additionally, in celebration of Juneteenth and Black Music Month, one of Spotify’s flagship playlists, ‘New Music Friday’ will exclusively feature Black artists on Friday, June 19th.”

Be sure to check out Spotify’s Juneteenth playlist to celebrate the representation of Black artists.