Artists from all over the state are creating, inspiring, and participating in protests as a reaction to the unjust killings of Black women and men across the nation. Much like the music inspired by the fight for civil rights in the sixties, the music released during this time will no doubt become linked hand in hand with memories of the movement. Check out the selections released recently below.

Black Parade - Beyoncé

Houston’s very own Queen Bey released her new song “Black Parade” in celebration of Juneteenth this past weekend. She says the upbeat track will benefit black own business and artists, which she linked to on her Instagram. Not one to shy away from social activism and Black uplifting, Bey sings:

Rubber bullets bouncing off me, made a picket sign off your picket fence, take it as a warning

An extended version of Black Parade is available on Tidal.

Until We All Are Free - Aisha Burns

Folk Singer Aisha Burns released a new EP in honor of Juneteenth as well this past weekend. Proceeds from sales will go to NAACP Legal Defense fund through Bandcamp and the Black Trans Travel Fund. The two track album by the San Antonio native spans from the constitutional commentary to modern call to action and is currently only available on Bandcamp.

Untitled (Black Is) - Sault

Little is known specifically of the makeup and origin of the critically acclaimed group Sault, though much speculated. They soar past their already high heights on their latest release which is deeply rooted in the present moment of Black experience. Through addictive rhythyms and beautiful melodies, Sault uplift and narrate the beauty, joys, and challenges of Blackness.

I Can't Breathe - H.E.R.

Finally, last week dropped the audio for her new somber and thought song “I Can’t Breathe”. With an extensive, personal spoken word section. H.E.R. makes it plain her view on the current tragedies of this world.