Black History Month 2021: Movies and Music

This Black History Month isn’t over yet, so OFM put together a list of recommended movies and music created by Black artists to help finish out February.

Movies:

The United States vs. Billie Holiday 

Set to release February 26 on Hulu, The United States vs. Billie Holiday stars Andra Day as Billie Holiday and follows the star through her tumultuous career. The film examines Holiday’s struggles with addiction and the Federal Department of Narcotics, which targeted her for her performances of the song “Strange Fruit.” 

Judas and the Black Messiah 

Starring Daniel Kaluuya and LaKeith Stanfield, this historical drama documents the story of William O’Neal and his betrayal of the Black Panther Party, specifically Fred Hampton. 

Premature

Premature is a story of all-consuming love between two young people living in New York City. The film follows teenage girl Ayanna as she deals with first love, change, friendships, and growth. 

If Beale Street Could Talk

If Beale Street Could Talk is a film based on the 1974 James Baldwin novel of the same name. The heart wrenching story of love and injustice received high praise and multiple Oscar nominations, including a win for Regina King for “Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role.” 

Music:

Thundercat

Funk and R&B musician Thundercat released his most recent album It Is What It Is in April of 2020. The album was nominated for “Best Progressive R&B Album” at the 2021 Grammy Awards. 

Chloe x Halle

Chloe x Halle released their third full-length album Ungodly Hour in June 2020, for which they received positive reviews. The album earned them three Grammy nominations for 2021, including “Best Progressive R&B Album,” “Best Traditional R&B Performance” for “Wonder What She Thinks Of Me,” and “Best R&B Song” for “Do It.” 

Teyana Taylor

R&B singer and musician Teyana Taylor released “The Album,” her third studio album, in June of 2020. The album features collaborations with Lauryn Hill, Kehlani, and Erykah Badu, among others. 

Lianne La Havas

Indie-soul singer Lianne La Havas received praise after the release of her album Lianne La Havas in July 2020. The album features powerful and emotional tracks, such as “Bittersweet” and “Please Don’t Make Me Cry.” 

Aminé

The rapper Aminé is best known for his 2016 hit “Caroline,” but his most recent album Limbo deserves just as much recognition. Popular tracks include “Compensating,” “Can’t Decide,” and “Riri.” 

Arlo Parks

Indie artist Arlo Parks’ 2021 album Collapsed in Sunbeams was met with critical acclaim after its release in January. The album reached #3 on the UK Album Chart. Many tracks on the album focus on the teenage experience and struggles with mental health. 

Upcoming online musical events include the Chicago Children’s Choir Black History Month concert, streaming February 25, and NPR Tiny Desk’s Black History Month series, which occurs all month.