The first Black History Month of the decade is here! Black History Month is an annual observance that celebrates the history and achievements of Black people. In the years since its origin in the United States, it has expanded to being observed in Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, and the Netherlands.
In honor of Black History Month, we’re presenting a playlist that encapsulates the mood and energy of this February observance. With the overflowing well of amazing Black music out there, we had to keep this playlist narrowed to music that came out in the past year (February 2019 - February 2020) to keep the peace in our office. Check it out below!
1. “BROWN SKIN GIRL” - Beyoncé ft. Blue Ivy, SAINt JHN, and WizKid
This ballad is a beautiful ode to Black women and girls, specifically those of darker skin tones. Despite purposeful obliviousness or pushback upon its release and subsequent popularity, it’s clear from the lyrics whose beauty Beyoncé is highlighting in a world that has been shaped by colorism. For reference, colorism refers to discrimination based on skin color. Colorism disadvantages dark-skinned people while privileging those with lighter skin. Historically, Black women and girls with darker skin tones have especially received the intersectional brunt of this. This is why “BROWN SKIN GIRL” is so necessary. One of the most acclaimed music artists of all time, who is also a African-American woman, celebrating melanin of darker tones is a huge step forward in much-needed representation.
2. “Drogba (Joanna)” - Afro B
This Afrobeats hit was a summer anthem all over the world this past year. No summer cookout or party was complete until it came on. At a time where Afrobeats music is breaking into mainstream music when it previously struggled to, this song stands out of the new wave in a way that’s not really explainable. It may be the ability of the song’s tempo to make you just have to move your body to match it. Or it may be the catchy lyrics of UK artist Afro B. Regardless, this is one song that will be on summer playlists for years to come.
3. “Juice” [EXPLICIT] - Lizzo
2019 was definitely the year of Melissa Viviane Jefferson, more widely known by most as Lizzo. For many active social media users, she first became known for her brilliance as a flutist. Now the world knows her as a powerhouse music artist and performer who can do it all. Lizzo and her songs have the power to make you earnestly feel good. Whether it's her self-affirming lyrics or her blazing energy as a singer, listening to her music will always leave you with an improved mood. “Juice” is a perfect example of such.
4. “Got Me” [EXPLICIT] - Dreamville ft. Ari Lennox, Omen, Ty Dolla $ign & Dreezy
This song has personally been in my music rotation since the night it dropped with the latest Dreamville album. Ty Dolla $ign and Ari Lennox singing together is everything that I knew that I needed. Their voices complement each other perfectly and set a great foundation for Omen’s and Dreezy’s rap verses to build on. With the accompanying beat and background vocals, this song is just perfect. It’s definitely a necessary addition to any R&B or hip-hop playlist.
5. “Hair Down” [EXPLICIT] - SiR ft. Kendrick Lamar
SiR’s voice explains why he is on this playlist. Period. Evocative of its lyrics, this song is one to put on on a lazy Saturday. In the year 2020, oversaturation is all too common. For those needing a break and a chance to recharge themselves, this song is especially endearing for those who need these vibes.
6. “Just Us” [EXPLICIT] - DJ Khaled ft. SZA
The formula still holds true for SZA. Put her on a song, and you will have a hit. DJ Khaled does just that with this one, giving SZA complete reign of the track to showcase her melodious vocals. Reminiscent of her work on the 2018 Billboard hit “All The Stars”, SZA effortlessly leads the song all while giving intensity that easily makes this song an anthem.
7. “Before I Let Go” - Beyoncé
The original version of this song is loved all over the world and regarded as a classic by multiple generations. Because of this rare respect, this means that not just anyone can cover this song — let alone officially release it on an album — and get away with it. BUT. That is exactly what Beyoncé was able to do here because, well she’s Beyoncé. She was able to revive a timeless song with modern aspects, all while also keeping true to its roots. The fact that this song was a surprise track on the live album of her renowned 2018 Coachella performance just makes its existence even better.
Photo: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images