For many Americans, July 4, 1776, was the ultimate day of freedom, but unfortunately, it wasn't actually a day of liberty and justice for all. Across the South, Afro-Americans were still enslaved, and it wouldn't be until June 19, 1865, when they all would be freed. It was on that day when a Union Army general rode down to Galveston, Texas, with news that the Civil War was over. That news meant all slaves must be freed at once. It's a day still celebrated among Afro-Americans as a holiday called Juneteenth.

"MPR's only Black classical host Garrett McQueen fired after being taken off air" by Marianne Combs

Garrett McQueen joined MPR's Angela Davis to talk about his 10 favorite musical works, his new podcast and the intersection of race and classical music.

If you’ve ever wondered how radio playlists are created, this is the "Sticky Notes" episode for you. In this conversation, Joshua Weilerstein explores Garrett’s tireless advocacy on behalf of diversity in classical music. They also gently debated Garrett’s disdain for Brahms and Gershwin.

America's relationships with slavery, the civil rights movement and modern race-based challenges aren't the only things to think about for Black History Month. Members of the African diaspora, in the United States and around the world, have contributed to classical music since there was a "classical music." Here are nine notable performances of black pieces of music to explore.

America's relationships with slavery, the civil rights movement and modern race-based challenges aren't the only things to think about for Black History Month. Members of the African diaspora, in the United States and around the world, have contributed to classical music since there was a "classical music." Here are nine notable performances of black pieces of music to explore.

PHOTO: DAVID CAINES BURNETT ARTICLE: "Radio host agitates for change while elevating Black artistry" by Jenna Ross

The second time I had the honor of playing Carnegie Hall was with the Illharmonic Orchestra - a group that explores the intersection of hip-hop and classical. Their new album, "Maniac Maestro", is hot! In this feature I talk about my relationship with the group's leaders, and the important work they're doing.

In February of 2013 I was invited for the first time to perform with the Sphinx Symphony Orchestra. In addition to maintaining a relationship with the SSO, I've spoken on Sphinx Connect panels, and participated in the annual conference in many other ways. In this feature I write about the Sphinx Virtuosi ensemble, and their visit to the Twin Cities!

Garrett joins the hosts of "The Classical Gabfest" podcast as special guest

5 Questions to Garrett McQueen from I Care If You Listen

Garrett talks about his termination from APM and more as special guest on the "Opera Box Score" podcast

Garrett McQueen responds to 2020 with WQXR.

A short essay written on the power and COMPLICITY of classical music, in light of the death of George Floyd.

Content and features created by Garrett McQueen at WUOT-FM.

Changing the Narrative with Alum Garrett McQueen

Garrett McQueen named Artist Scholar by MSM

TRILLOQUY review from TPR

Garrett joins Savon, Alex and Steph to talk hip hop news, classical music, and Blackness.

Jimi Izrael and Garrett McQueen talk sexual harassment and more.

Khalil interviews Garrett on his new show. They talk hip hop, content creation, Drake, and resilience.

Blackness and "classical" music with Dr. Sean.

Introduction to "The Sound of 13".

Garrett Champions Diversity in Knoxville