WATCH: M. Roger Holland, II Discusses Juneteenth and July Fourth

The first several decades of 4th of July celebrations meant nothing to those who were enslaved. What was there to celebrate? M. Roger Holland, II shares why Juneteenth takes on a meaning of independence. And it's all related to the spiritual "Great Gettin' Up Morning" as part of Journey to Freedom: The Spirituals Radio Project.

Listen to Professor Holland’s monthly musical selections and commentary throughout the year on CPR Classical, including Sunday mornings on our choral music show Sing!, hosted by David Ginder

Hear CPR Classical by clicking “Listen Live” at the top on this website. You can also hear CPR Classical at 88.1 FM in Denver, at radio signals around Colorado, or ask your smart speaker to “Play CPR Classical.”