The National Museum of African American Music explores the rich history of black music, touching on more than 50 genres and styles, including spirituals, blues, jazz, gospel, R&B, and hip-hop. Featuring six interactive galleries equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the museum’s mission is to educate and transform the appreciation of African American music history and culture.
The National Museum of African American Music is the only museum in the country dedicated to preserving and celebrating the impact of African-American artists across multiple genres. Located in the heart of downtown, this museum showcases more than 50 musical styles, highlighting how African-American musicians have helped shape everything from blues and gospel to jazz, R & B and hip-hop. Through immersive exhibits, rare artifacts, and interactive displays, visitors gain a deeper understanding of how this influence shaped the sound of America.
For those looking to experience Nashville museums beyond country music, this museum is a must-visit. Its central location makes it easy to explore in a day, offering a comprehensive look at Nashville music history while placing visitors within walking distance of other major sites. This guide explores the museum’s highlights, from historic recordings and memorabilia to hands-on exhibits that bring the evolution of music to life.
The role of African-American musicians in Nashville music history dates back long before the city became famous for country music. While often overlooked, their contributions helped shape the foundation of Music City.
The Fisk Jubilee Singers, a vocal group from Fisk University, introduced the world to spirituals in the 19th century. Their international tours helped establish Nashville as a city of musical excellence long before it was known for country. Today, their legacy is honored throughout the city, and their influence continues in the gospel and R & B sounds of modern artists.
During the mid-20th century, Jefferson Street was a thriving hub for R & B, jazz, and blues. Legendary artists like Little Richard, Jimi Hendrix and Ray Charles performed in the area’s clubs, drawing music lovers from across the country. Though urban development changed the district over time, its legacy remains a critical piece of Nashville music history.
African-American musicians continue to shape the industry in Nashville, contributing to country, hip-hop, gospel and R&B. While the city is often associated with country music, the National Museum of African American Music ensures that these diverse influences are recognized as essential to Nashville music history.
The National Museum of African American Music exists to document, educate and celebrate African-American contributions to music. Visitors explore how different genres evolved, learning how each style influenced and inspired the next. The museum provides an immersive experience that allows guests to see, hear and interact with these musical milestones.
Situated at 510 Broadway, the museum is located in the Fifth + Broadway development, a prime spot among top Nashville museums. The 56,000-square-foot facility includes galleries, performance spaces, and interactive exhibits that bring the story of African-American music to life. Visitors can easily explore other Nashville attractions, including the Country Music Hall of Fame, Ryman Auditorium, and Bridgestone Arena.
Each gallery at the National Museum of African American Music provides a deep dive into the evolution of sound, tracing how musical traditions developed over time.
The Roots Theater offers a multimedia experience that introduces the origins of African-American music. Through visual storytelling and original recordings, visitors learn how African influences shaped spirituals, blues, and gospel.
The Rivers of Rhythm Pathways exhibit follows the development of music from early African rhythms to contemporary hip-hop. Interactive displays allow visitors to explore how different genres emerged, making it one of the most engaging sections of the museum.
The Wade in the Water exhibit explores the connection between faith and music in African-American culture. Featuring recordings of Mahalia Jackson and Kirk Franklin, this gallery shows how spirituals evolved into gospel, influencing soul, R & B, and even hip-hop.
The Crossroads exhibit traces the blues from its origins in work songs and field hollers to its role in shaping rock and roll. Visitors can see artifacts from legendary musicians like B.B. King and Muddy Waters, exploring how the blues set the stage for modern music.
Jazz is highlighted in A Love Supreme, an exhibit that celebrates artists like Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong. Live performances bring this genre to life, allowing guests to experience the improvisation and creativity that define jazz.
This exhibit tells the story of hip-hop’s rise from New York block parties to international influence. It showcases pioneers like Run-D.M.C. and Tupac while highlighting hip-hop’s role in shaping conversations about race, culture and politics.
The National Museum of African American Music houses a remarkable collection of instruments used by some of the most influential musicians in history. These pieces connect visitors to the sound and style that defined generations of music.
These instruments serve as a tribute to the artists who transformed the industry and continue to influence modern musicians. The collection highlights the impact of African-American artists on every genre, making it an essential stop for those exploring Nashville museums.
Fashion has always played a major role in music, and the museum’s collection of stage costumes reflects the evolution of performance style.
These iconic outfits give visitors a glimpse into the artistry behind live performances and how visual presentation became just as important as the music itself.
The museum’s collection of rare records and original sheet music highlights the foundational works of African-American musicians.
These artifacts showcase how early recordings and written compositions shaped Nashville music history and beyond.
The National Museum of African American Music offers interactive educational experiences that allow visitors to dive deeper into the creative process behind some of the most influential genres in American music.
These programs provide a deeper understanding of how music has evolved and the role African-American artists played in shaping popular culture.
The museum frequently hosts live performances and discussions featuring well-known musicians, historians, and industry professionals.
These events provide a direct connection between past and present, ensuring that the contributions of African-American musicians continue to be celebrated.
As part of its mission, the museum invests in community programs that encourage young artists and students to explore their musical talents.
By engaging with students and young musicians, the museum ensures that the legacy of African-American music will continue for generations.
The National Museum of African American Music is one of the most unique Nashville museums, offering an immersive experience in a state-of-the-art facility.
Address: 510 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203
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Visitors are encouraged to check the museum’s website for the latest information on ticket prices and availability.
The National Museum of African American Music is designed to be accessible to all guests, with features that enhance the visitor experience.
With its central location and engaging exhibits, the museum is an essential stop for anyone interested in Nashville music history. And getting to this and other Nashville museums is made simple with Old Town Trolley Tours®. This hop-on, hop-off tour allows you to experience the best of Nashville without the stress of parking.
The Ryman Auditorium is one of the most significant landmarks in Nashville music history, known for its deep connection to American music. Built in 1892 as a gospel revival hall, it later became the home of the Grand Ole Opry, shaping Nashville’s reputation as “Music City.”
Just a short walk from the National Museum of African American Music, the Ryman Auditorium stands as a must-visit for those exploring Nashville museums and the city’s deep musical heritage.
The Country Music Hall of Fame is a cornerstone of Nashville music history, preserving the stories of artists who shaped country music while also highlighting how the genre intersects with blues, gospel, and R & B.
Even those who aren’t country music fans will appreciate the connections between the exhibits at the National Museum of African American Music and the broader evolution of American sound.
Located steps away from the National Museum of African American Music, Fifth + Broadway is one of the most popular destinations in the city.
This entertainment center offers a great place to take a break after visiting Nashville museums or exploring the exhibits at NMAAM.
The National Museum of African American Music highlights over 50 genres, including blues, jazz, gospel, R & B, hip-hop, and rock. The exhibits explore how African-American musicians influenced Nashville music history and shaped the sound of modern music.
Yes, the museum provides immersive experiences where visitors can listen to historic recordings, use touchscreens to explore music’s evolution, and even try virtual music-making activities. These hands-on displays set NMAAM apart from other Nashville museums.
The museum frequently hosts concerts, panel discussions, and special events featuring artists from multiple genres. Whether it’s a jazz night or a hip-hop showcase, visitors can experience live music as part of Nashville’s music history.
Most visitors spend about two to three hours exploring the National Museum of African American Music, though those who engage deeply with the interactive elements may want to stay longer.
Yes! NMAAM offers educational programs designed for all ages, making it one of the most engaging Nashville museums for families. Children and adults alike can learn about music history through interactive exhibits and storytelling.
In addition to the Ryman Auditorium and the Country Music Hall of Fame, visitors can explore attractions like the Johnny Cash Museum, the Musicians Hall of Fame, and the historic clubs of Printers Alley, all of which showcase different aspects of Nashville music history.
Photography is generally permitted in most areas of the National Museum of African American Music, but some exhibits may have restrictions. Flash photography and tripods are typically not allowed to preserve the integrity of artifacts.