A Juneteenth Celebration

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Juneteenth this year was such a lively celebration amongst the black community. Throughout this time, social distancing was still in effect. Verzuz TV has taken many artists on Instagram Live and made them go head to head in musical battles. On Juneteenth, Alicia Keys and John Legend were chosen to perform.

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For this Versus battle, both competitors were in the same room, singing live and playing their own piano accompaniment to their hits on Instagram Live. They also were singing each other’s background vocals, fond memories, and sending happy Juneteenth wishes. Various viewers stated that it really doesn’t get more smooth-piano relaxing than this. The world is still reeling from the coronavirus pandemic. People are taking to the streets to protest police brutality against Black people, a heavily emotional battle. Juneteenth, is also the day to commemorate the end of slavery in America. All of these factors made Friday's battle on Instagram more of a call for unity. Each artist played hits from "Diary" to "Ordinary People." They also played new music with Legend premiering "Never Break" and Keys premiering "Perfect Way to Die."

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"I think we need a lot of hope right now," Keys said as she played "Empire State of Mind.” John Legend stated, "We're happy to celebrate freedom and the fight for more freedom, I've been so inspired watching people march in this street playing this song ... It means so much that people play this song fighting to be more free.” To be honest, John Legend dancing to his music was the best part of the battle.

Photo Credits: @verzuztv

Report: Soila Douce (@soila.xx)

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Aunt Jemima and Racism on American Shelves