A Musical Journey Through Tennessee’s History

Discover Tennessee’s musical heritage through extraordinary attractions that showcase the state’s deep-rooted musical legacy.

Stax Museum of American Soul Music in Memphis

Experience the story of Stax Records, one of the most famous recording studios in the world, through interactive exhibitions and artifacts at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The museum shares how creative individuals came together to write, record and produce some of the best soul music in Memphis. The hall of records is lined with floor-to-ceiling with albums and singles released by Stax giving guests a view of the impact Stax had on the world’s music. 

The Tina Turner Museum at Flagg Grove School in Brownsville

Before she was crowned the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Tina Turner was Anna Mae Bullock, born in Nutbush, Tennessee — a spot she later made famous with her hit song “Nutbush City Limits.” The late singer is celebrated at Tina Turner Museum at Flagg Grove School in Brownsville, formerly the one-room schoolhouse where she learned her ABCs. Located on the grounds of the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center, the museum is home to the largest known collection of Tina memorabilia in the world, featuring costumes, gold records and even her high school yearbook.

The National Museum of African American Music in Nashville

The National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) in downtown Nashville is the only museum dedicated to preserving and celebrating the music genres created, inspired or influenced by African Americans. NMAAM showcases the true essence of African American music history, honoring the timeless impact of the Sound Makers yesterday and today. The museum hosts special events throughout the year and offers free admission every first Wednesday of the month.

The Bessie Smith Cultural Center in Chattanooga

Known as the Empress of the Blues, Chattanooga-born vocalist Bessie Smith’s legacy comes to life at Bessie Smith Cultural Center. Smith was one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, whose fingerprints can still be found in jazz, blues, rock, hip-hop and beyond. Through detailed exhibits and memorabilia, the Cultural Center tells her story, along with further valuable exhibits that showcase the lives of the Chattanooga musicians who followed in Bessie’s wake.

Cradle of Country Music Walking Tour in Knoxville

Enjoy the downtown Cradle of Country Music Walking Tour for start lists and call ups for all events and learn Knoxville’s ties to Hank Williams, Elvis Presley, Howard Armstrong, Dolly Parton, the Everly Brothers, Roy Acuff and others. For more information, pick up a brochure at the Knoxville Visitors Center and check out what this tour looks like on Instagram.

The Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Bristol

The Birthplace of Country Music Museum, an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, tells the story of the 1927 Bristol Sessions, explores how evolving sound technology shaped their success, and highlights how this rich musical heritage lives on in today’s music. Referred to by scholars as the “big bang of country music,” the Sessions included the first recordings of The Carter Family and Jimmie Rodgers and ushered country music into the mainstream.