Museum Overview
The National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) in Nashville, Tennessee, is where the real legends of the Nashville music scene are immortalized. It represents a significant cultural institution, preserving the rich history and contributions of African Americans to American music.
From gospel, blues, jazz, R&B, to hip-hop – various exhibits feature artifacts, memorabilia, audiovisual presentations, and interactive displays that allow you to listen, learn, and delve into the historical context of each genre.
Did you know? Preparations lasted more than 20 years before the museum finally opened on January 18, 2021.
NMAAM Exhibits
NMAAM offers a range of exhibits that highlight the diverse genres and influential figures in African American music history.
- Rivers of Rhythm – Serves as an introduction to the rich musical traditions brought by Africans to America, this exhibition explores the roots of African music and the influence of African rhythms on various music genres.
- Crossroads – Discover the convergence of African music with European musical traditions, giving rise to genres like gospel, blues, and jazz. The exhibits delves deeper into the impact of spirituals and gospel music on social movements, and the innovative sounds of blues and jazz that emerged during the early 20th century.
- A Love Supreme – Focusing on the evolution of R&B, soul, and funk, the A Love Supreme exhibit showcases the powerful voices and groundbreaking artists who shaped these genres.
- One Nation Under a Groove – Explore the world of funk, disco, and dance music in this exhibit. It highlights the cultural and social contexts that influenced these genres and their impact on popular culture. Artists such as George Clinton, Donna Summer, and Chic are featured.
- The Message – This exhibit explores the rise of hip-hop and examines the genre’s roots in African oral traditions, its growth in the Bronx, and its subsequent cultural impact. You’ll encounter influential hip-hop artists like Grandmaster Flash, Run-D.M.C., and Lauryn Hill.
