National Museum of African American Music

Overview

Opened in 2020, the National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) is the only museum in the world dedicated to preserving and celebrating over 50 genres of music created, influenced, or inspired by African Americans. The 56,000-square-foot space on Broadway combines interactive technology with historical artifacts.

Highlights

• Interactive galleries: Seven galleries trace the journey from spirituals and blues through jazz, R&B, hip-hop, and gospel using touch screens, listening stations, and augmented reality.
• One Nation Under a Groove: A floor-length interactive dance experience set to iconic tracks.
• Rivers of Rhythm Corridor: A 200-foot multimedia timeline connecting music, history, and social movements.

History

The idea for NMAAM was born in 2001 when Nashville civic leaders recognized the city's unique position at the crossroads of African American musical heritage. After 19 years of fundraising and planning, the museum opened at Fifth + Broadway in January 2020.

Visitor Tips

• Allow extra time: The interactive exhibits are engrossing—many visitors stay longer than planned.
• Closed Mondays: Plan your visit Tuesday through Sunday.
• Duration: 2–2.5 hours.