Tres Generaciones Tequila, a 50 year old brand introduced by the family that elevated tequila to a symbol of Mexican pride, and Billboard are partnering together for a year-long celebration of music’s transformative power to unveil the top songs that have energized, uplifted and excited six select cities, known as the ‘Get Up Anthems.’ These playlists are curated through a mix of editorial insight and data analytics, and honor the songs that define each city’s history and culture.
In the heart of Downtown Houston, amidst a conversation on a brisk March afternoon moderated by host, Rocsi Diaz, rap luminary Bun B, renowned DJ/producer Chase B, and esteemed Billboard critics Damien Scott and Cat Johnson, converged on a singular conclusion over a cocktail of Tres Generaciones Tequila: “June 27th” merits recognition as Houston’s quintessential anthem. Despite its absence from the commercial realm and Billboard charts, the song’s cultural significance transcends mere data, resonating as the city’s ultimate Get Up Anthem. “You’d be hard pressed to find something that represents Houston culture to a myriad of people right across the board that this song doesn’t really speak to,” proclaimed Bun B.
Emerging from the crucible of Houston’s underground hip-hop scene in the early 1990s, DJ Screw revolutionized music production with his innovative chopped and screwed style. At the heart of this movement was “June 27th,” a 38-minute seminal freestyle track that epitomized the city’s raw energy and distinctive sound. Rooted in the experiences of Houston’s streets, the song became a rallying cry for a generation, embodying the spirit of resilience and community pride.
Beyond its musical attributes, almost three decades later since its release off DJ Screw’s 1996 tape, Screwed Up, “June 27th” holds a special place in the hearts of Houstonians as a cultural touchstone. Its title taken from D-Mo’s birthday, who’s celebration served as the backdrop for the birth of the record, has become an unofficial holiday in the Bayou city. “It just gave Houston kind of like an unofficial holiday,” explained Chase B, “so, June 27th just became Houston’s day.” Bun B chimed in to add, “you can feel it in your heart. It’s so ingrained in our life, in our culture. It’s literally like our happy birthday, almost type of a thing. It’s one of those factors where you know, you’re in the right room.”
Its hypnotic beats and soulful samples evoke a deep sense of nostalgia for hot summer days and late-night gatherings, serving as a sonic time capsule of the city’s vibrant neighborhoods. Through its lyrics and melodies, the song celebrates the diversity and resilience of Houston’s communities, fostering a sense of belonging and unity among its residents.
One of the most remarkable aspects of “June 27th” is its ability to transcend barriers and bring people together. In an era of mixtapes, the record laid the foundation for seven lyricists to hop on the beat, each adding their own flavor and lyrical prowess, pandering to their audience. “In the heyday of mixtapes, it was like you would hear songs that were completely crafted with no intention of making it to radio…and, you know, groups put together that weren’t really groups. It was a great time,” Damien Scott, Billboard’s Deputy Editorial Director, said.
Across generations and backgrounds, the song serves as a unifying force, forging connections and fostering a shared sense of identity among Houstonians. Whether blasting from car stereos at block parties or pulsating through crowded clubs, its infectious rhythm has the power to unite people in celebration of their shared cultural heritage.
As Houston continues to evolve, the legacy of “June 27th” remains as potent as ever. Its influence can be seen in the work of contemporary artists who draw inspiration from DJ Screw’s pioneering sound, as well as in the ongoing celebration of the city’s hip-hop heritage. Moreover, as new generations of Houstonians discover the song’s timeless appeal, its legacy is assured for years to come, serving as a testament to the enduring power of music to shape our lives and unite communities.
From its humble origins in Houston’s underground rap scene to its status as a cultural phenomenon, “June 27th” has transcended its role as mere entertainment to become a symbol of unity, resilience, and pride for the city of Houston.
