NMAAM

Mothership Connected: The Women of Parliament-Funkadelic
2025-10-25 12:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | NMAAM, 510 Broadway, Nashville, TN, 37203, United States
Join us for a dynamic evening celebrating the women who helprd shapre the legendary sound and soul of P-Funk!
The event will feature Shirley Hayden, powerhouse vocalist from P-Funk/Parlet, and Seth Neblett, author of Mothership Connected: The Women of Parliament – Funkadelic. Together, they’ll explore the often unsung stories, creativity, and cultural impact of the women behind one of funk’s most revolutionary movements.
The conversation will be moderated by NMAAM’s very own Sydney Watson, guiding an insightful discussion on music, empowerment, and legacy, followed by a book signing and special artifact donation to the museum’s collection.

RSVP Here

The Velvet Rope Experience
2025-10-24 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | National Museum of African American Music, 510 Broadway, Nashville, TN, 37203, United States
Step behind The Velvet Rope for an exclusive pre-concert celebration before Brandy and Monica’s historic “The Boy is Mine” tour stop at Bridgestone Arena. This immersive VIP experience transforms NMAAM into an intimate musical lounge where R&B heritage meets contemporary culture.

Enjoy signature cocktails inspired by R&B classics while exploring curated artifact exhibitions celebrating the evolution of rhythm and blues. Our DJ spins favorite hits spanning four decades of R&B excellence, creating the perfect atmosphere before you head next door to witness music history at the 8:00 PM concert.

This isn’t just a pre-show reception—it’s a cultural bridge connecting NMAAM’s mission of preserving Black musical heritage with the living legacy being created on stage tonight. Whether you’re a longtime R&B devotee or discovering the genre’s rich history, The Velvet Rope offers an unforgettable way to begin your evening.

What’s Included:

Complimentary signature cocktail (members) / One drink ticket (guests)
Access to curated R&B artifact exhibitions
DJ entertainment featuring R&B classics
Premium appetizers
Photo opportunities with iconic R&B memorabilia
Seamless transition to Bridgestone Arena concert

Capacity: Limited to 100 guests
Dress Code: Cocktail attire encouraged
Location: NMAAM Amplify Lounge, 510 Broadway

Admission:
Members: FREE (RSVP required)
Guests: $20

Concert tickets sold separately. Weekend pass holders receive priority access and exclusive benefits.
Purchase Tickets Here

Sounds in Cinema
2025-10-01 15:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago) | National Museum of African American Music, 510 Broadway, Nashville, TN, 37203, United States
Sounds in Cinema
Every First Wednesday at 3:00 PM | Roots Theater
Where film meets music history. Join us for curated documentary screenings that explore the intersection of African American music and cinema, featuring authentic industry conversations and special guest appearances. Part of our First Free Wednesdays programming, these screenings often include live discussions with the artists, producers, and music professionals who created the stories we preserve.
Free admission | RSVP Required | Presented by Nissan

RSVP Here

Nissan Free Wednesdays
2025-10-01 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-09-03 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-08-06 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-07-02 10:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | NMAAM, 510 Broadway, Nashville, TN, 37203, United States
Experience NMAAM without the cost on our special Free Admission Days, sponsored by our generous partner, Nissan.
Free Wednesdays: Every first Wednesday of the month, enjoy complimentary access to the museum galleries; excludes access to the Fisk Jubilee Exhibit.

RFID Interactive Wristbands are $5.00 each on Nissan Free Wednesdays and Community Days.

On these days, simply show up and immerse yourself in the history and influence of African American music at no cost!

Lead Boldly: An Evening on Leadership and Legacy with Robert F. Smith
2025-09-30 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | NMAAM, 510 Broadway, Nashville, TN, 37203, United States
Join us for an inspiring evening at the National Museum of African American Music with Robert F. Smith, where we will reflect on the enduring impact of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s call to lead with courage, conviction, and compassion. Through the lens of leadership and the importance of using our voices for change, we’ll explore how these timeless principles can guide us today.
This special event features Robert F. Smith, Founder, Chairman & CEO of Vista Equity Partners, in conversation with a special guest. Together, they’ll discuss how Dr. King’s most powerful speeches continue to inspire modern leaders—and how Smith’s new book, Lead Boldly, applies these lessons to leadership in business, community, and life.
Your ticket includes:
✔ A signed copy of Lead Boldly: Seven Principles from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
✔ Meet & Greet with Robert F. Smith
✔ Complimentary cocktails & light bites
(Doors open at 5:30 PM)

Purchase Tickets – SOLD OUT!

ArtWay: Nashville
2025-09-27 17:00 - 22:00 (America/Chicago) | NMAAM, 510 Broadway, Nashville, TN, 37203, United States
ArtWay makes its Nashville debut at NMAAM!
Experience America’s premier cultural art show featuring incredible artists, live DJ sets, and interactive art activations. This one-of-a-kind art experience includes curated craft cocktails by expert mixologists, interactive photo opportunities, and a tour of the National Museum of African American Music.
Don’t miss the show of the year! Tickets are limited for this unforgettable cultural celebration!

Purchase Tickets

Uncovering Roots: Keb' Mo'
2025-09-13 12:30 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | NMAAM, 510 Broadway, Nashville, TN, 37203, United States
An AmericanaFest Official Experience! Live Interview, Unveiling, and Reception
Join us for an intimate conversation with five-time GRAMMY® winner Keb’ Mo’, moderated by Marcus K. Dowling, followed by the unveiling of his exclusive exhibition and reception. This special event merges NMAAM and AmericanaFest week with a celebration of blues, roots music, and storytelling.
Experience an unforgettable afternoon with five-time GRAMMY® Award winner Keb’ Mo’ as we unveil his exclusive exhibition at NMAAM. This intimate event features a live conversation moderated by renowned music journalist Marcus K. Dowling, followed by the official opening of “Roots Uncovered: Keb’ Mo'” and a celebratory reception.
Date: Saturday, September 13, 2025
Time: 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM
Location: NMAAM – Roots Theater & Feature Gallery
Event Type: Live Interview + Exhibition Unveiling + Reception

Free RSVP
Registration Required
EVENT SCHEDULE

12:30 PM – 1:15 PM: Live interview in the Roots Theater
1:15 PM – 1:30 PM: Exhibition unveiling in the Feature Gallery
1:30 PM – 2:00 PM: Reception and meet-and-greet opportunity

ABOUT THE EXHIBITION
“Uncovering Roots: Keb’ Mo'” celebrates the extraordinary 50+ year journey of one of America’s most beloved blues and roots musicians. The exhibition features rare artifacts, performance memorabilia, signature guitars, and the stories behind songs that have shaped modern Americana and blues music.
Exhibition highlights include:

Original guitars and stage-worn performance pieces
Behind-the-scenes photographs from recording sessions
Interactive listening stations featuring career-spanning music
Personal artifacts showcasing his journey from Compton to Nashville
Awards and recognition from his groundbreaking career

The exhibition will remain on display through December 2025.

ABOUT KEB’ MO’
With five GRAMMY® Awards, 14 Blues Foundation Awards, and a groundbreaking career spanning more than 50 years, Keb’ Mo’ has established himself as a modern master of American roots music. Born and raised in Compton, he has topped the Billboard Blues Chart seven times, performed everywhere from Carnegie Hall to The White House, and collaborated with artists including Taj Mahal, Willie Nelson, Bonnie Raitt, and The Chicks.
Beyond music, Keb’ Mo’ is a passionate philanthropist, celebrity mentor with The Kennedy Center’s Turnaround Arts Program, and longtime ambassador for the Playing For Change Foundation. His latest work continues to bridge the grit and groove of his Compton roots with the strum and twang of his adopted hometown of Nashville.

ABOUT THE INTERVIEWER
Marcus K. Dowling is a respected music journalist known for his insightful conversations with artists across genres. His expertise in roots music and storytelling makes him the perfect moderator for this intimate discussion about Keb’ Mo’s musical journey and artistic evolution.

TICKETING & ADMISSION
FREE EVENT – RSVP Required
AmericanaFest Pass Holders: Priority seating with Silver Pass or Wristband
Up to 70 spots reserved for pass holders until 12:15 PM
General Public: Free admission with advance RSVP
Venue Capacity: Limited seating – advance reservations strongly recommended
Please note: This event coincides with AmericanaFest week and is an official ancillary event.

LOCATION & ACCESSIBILITY
National Museum of African American Music
510 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203
Parking: Free parking information available at nmaam.org
Accessibility: NMAAM is fully accessible to visitors with disabilities
Public Transportation: Located in downtown Nashville with easy access to public transit

CONTACT INFORMATION
For questions about this event, please contact:
Email: curatorial@nmaam.org
Phone: (615) 301-8724
Website: nmaam.org
This event is made possible through our partnership with Concord Music Group and AmericanaFest.

In the Pocket: An Evening with Chuck Rainey & Friends
2025-08-11 06:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | NMAAM, 510 Broadway, Nashville, TN, 37203, United States
Join legendary session bassist Chuck Rainey alongside Victor Wooten, Tommy Sims, and Rod Taylor for an intimate conversation about the foundation of American music in NMAAM’s exclusive 100-seat Amplify space. This inaugural “In the Pocket” event offers rare access to four generations of bass mastery sharing authentic stories, musical demonstrations, and behind-the-scenes insights from the recording sessions that shaped popular music.
VIP: $50 | GA: $30 | Member/Student: $10

Register Now

R&B Bingo
2025-08-09 21:00 - 2025-08-10 00:00 (America/Chicago) | NMAAM, 510 Broadway, Nashville, TN, 37203, United States
The chips will fall wherever the music lands! Prepare for an electrifying night of musical bingo at the National Museum of African American Music.
Let the rhythm guide your luck in five epic rounds of bingo, spanning the most iconic decades—’70s, ’80s, ’90s, 2000s, 2010s, and Trap.
Think you really know music? Our bingo game challenges even the sharpest music connoisseurs.
Win exclusive prizes in each round and compete for a grand finale treasure chest featuring goods from local Black-owned businesses to explore and support.
Come for the music, stay for the vibes. Let’s make it a night to remember—where the only thing more exciting than your bingo card is the soundtrack to your victory!
$25 General Admission | $20 Member
Purchase Tickets
PURCHASE TICKETS

Cowgirls Love Whiskey: Boots, Bourbon, & Ballads
2025-07-27 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | TN
Cowgirls Love Whiskey is the ultimate Southern immersive experience. Step onto the red carpet and into a celebration where music, mixology, and movement come together like never before.
Raise a glass as we honor legendary country artists through spirited cocktails, rich historical storytelling, and a whiskey tasting experience that spotlights local distilleries. Hosted by Nashville’s own Queen of Cocktails, Olivia Cadet, and serenaded by a headlining performance from Saaneah, fresh off her Grand Ole Opry debut, guests will be immersed in an unforgettable evening of Southern soul and flavor.
Come sip, sway, and celebrate with us—this is one night you won’t want to miss!
PURCHASE TICKETS

Black on Broadway: Runway Rodeo
2025-07-19 19:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | NMAAM, 510 Broadway, Nashville, TN, 37203, United States
In proud partnership with the National Museum of African American Music, The Black Fashion Week invites you to an unforgettable evening of bold celebration, where music and fashion come together.
Join us for a vibrant showcase of style, sound, and cultural storytelling as we uplift the brilliance of minority designers, models, and creatives. This special night will honor the rich legacy of Western wear and country music through a fresh, fashion-forward lens.
Whether you’re a fashion lover, music enthusiast, or simply curious, come experience the energy, creativity, and community as Broadway transforms into a dazzling runway of Black excellence. Bring your friends, wear your best, and be part of a celebration that’s as inspiring as it is stylish!

An Afternoon with Megan Piphus
2025-07-19 12:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | NMAAM, 510 Broadway, Nashville, TN, 37203, United States
Join us for a memorable afternoon with Megan Piphus—a four-time Emmy Award-winning producer, celebrated ventriloquist, and the first full-time Black woman puppeteer on Sesame Street.
Megan will take the stage to share selections from her upcoming children’s album, Cinderella Sweep, including the inspiring new single “A New Cinderella.” Set to release on July 11, the album features the voices of 53 girls from Saving Our Daughters, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering girls of color through mentorship and the arts.
Enjoy a joyful live musical performance (with some puppet friends!), personal reflections on Megan’s journey as a groundbreaking storyteller, and the unveiling of newly donated artifacts that honor her career and legacy.

An Evening with Kenny Sharp at Amplify Lounge
2025-06-26 08:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | NMAAM, 510 Broadway, Nashville, TN, 37203, United States
Experience Kenny Sharp’s electrifying “Brown Liquor Music” in an exclusive one-night-only transformation of NMAAM’s Amplify space—a rare preview of Nashville’s next iconic music venue.

National Museum of African American Music Black Music Month Special Event
Immerse yourself in the soulful fusion of blues, soul, country, and R&B during this signature Black Music Month event at NMAAM. “BROWN LIQUOR MUSIC” celebrates the interconnected musical traditions of Nashville, Memphis, and Muscle Shoals through the genre-defying sound of rising star Kenny Sharp, fresh from winning Lightning100’s Battle of the Bands.
PURCHASE TICKETS & TABLES HERE

Event Schedule:
Doors Open & Reception (6:30 PM – 8:00 PM)
Included with all tickets
Step into our transformed Amplify space—reimagined as a modern juke joint—and enjoy craft cocktails featuring Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey. Explore curated exhibits highlighting the cultural significance of juke joints in nurturing American musical innovation while a DJ sets the mood with selections that influenced Kenny’s unique sound.
Mixology Experience (7:30 PM – 8:30 PM)
Limited capacity – Available with The Mix & Flow VIP Experience Pass
Join us for an exclusive pre-show mixology class led by Olivia Cadet of Pourz Bar School in collaboration with Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey. Explore the parallel histories of African American contributions to both music and spirits while crafting signature cocktails inspired by Kenny Sharp’s “Brown Liquor Music.” Each participant receives a commemorative shot glass and recipe cards.
Kenny Sharp Performance (8:00 PM – 9:30 PM)
Main event
Experience an intimate performance as Kenny Sharp brings his raw, emotional “Brown Liquor Music” to life. Drawing from the musical traditions that have shaped his artistry, Kenny delivers a powerful set that channels influences from Muddy Waters to James Brown while creating something entirely his own. His natural storytelling ability and commanding stage presence promise an unforgettable evening in this exclusive setting.
After-Show Experience (9:30 PM – 11:00 PM)
Included for all guests
VIP ticket holders are invited to stay for an exclusive after-show experience featuring DJ-curated sounds, continued bar service, and the opportunity to meet Kenny Sharp. This intimate gathering offers a chance to connect with the artist and fellow music enthusiasts in a relaxed setting.
Ticket Options:

The Amplify Experience Table Sponsorship: $1,000 (Includes 5 tickets, premium reserved table, company recognition, NMAAM membership benefits, and special acknowledgment during the event)
The Mix & Flow VIP Experience Pass: $60 (Premium seating, mixology class access, two self-made drinks, commemorative item)
The Next Stage Pass: $40 (General admission, one drink ticket, standing room access to main performance)

Featured Artist:
Kenny Sharp is a singer/songwriter with a genre-bending sound dubbed “Brown Liquor Music.” Rooted in the music of the American South, Sharp’s “Americana Rhythm & Blues” draws on influences from Blues and Soul to Country, Funk, and Rock & Roll—imagine the sonic landscapes of Nashville, Memphis, and Sharp’s familial home of Muscle Shoals, Alabama, combined into one powerful sound.
Discovered and developed by mentor LunchMoney Lewis, Sharp has evolved from rapper to published songwriter signed to Prescription Songs. His songs effortlessly weave together disparate styles with powerful vocal performances and natural storytelling instincts. Kenny’s dynamic live show channels the energy of legends like Muddy Waters and James Brown, while his recent achievements include winning Nashville’s Lightning100 Battle of the Bands and securing a sync placement on Grey’s Anatomy.
Special Notes:
This exclusive pop-up event offers a preview of NMAAM’s permanent Amplify Lounge performance space scheduled to open next year. The intimate setting provides a rare opportunity to experience Kenny Sharp’s music in an environment designed to honor the venues where American musical traditions evolved and flourished.
Capacity is extremely limited. Advance tickets strongly recommended.
PURCHASE TICKETS & TABLES HERE

Juneteenth @NMAAM! Beyond Broadway
2025-06-19 17:00 - 22:00 (America/New_York) | Fort Negley, 1100 Fort Negley Blvd, Nashville, TN, 37203, United States
Experience NMAAM’s special outdoor activation at Nashville’s historic Fort Negley as part of the citywide Juneteenth celebration, featuring music performances, a pop-up museum experience, and culminating with fireworks.
EVENT DETAILS
Join NMAAM at Fort Negley for an evening celebration of Juneteenth that connects Nashville’s historical landmarks with the power of African American music. Our special outdoor museum experience brings NMAAM beyond Broadway with interactive exhibits, live performances, and community engagement at this significant historical site.
HIGHLIGHTS:
NMAAM Pop-Up Museum
Step into our specially designed outdoor museum space featuring curated exhibits that explore the connection between freedom, history, and music. Experience artifacts and interactive displays in this unique setting.
Main Stage Performances
Enjoy an exciting lineup of artists performing on the main stage, representing the diverse soundscape of African American musical traditions.
Interactive Music Experiences
Engage with hands-on activities for all ages that explore the musical heritage of Juneteenth and its ongoing significance.
Cooling Stations & Refreshments
Beat the summer heat with misting fans, water stations, and light refreshments while you enjoy the celebration.
Fireworks Finale
The evening concludes with a spectacular fireworks display at 9:30 PM, illuminating the Nashville skyline in celebration of freedom.
SCHEDULE:
5:00 PM: Main Stage Performances Begin
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Pop-Up Museum Experience Open
9:30 PM: Fireworks Display
This event is presented in partnership with the Nashville Predators and is part of “Bridge to Broadway & Beyond: NMAAM’s Juneteenth Journey,” which also includes daytime programming at the museum.

Juneteenth @NMAAM! Community Day
2025-06-19 10:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | NMAAM, 510 Broadway, Nashville, TN, 37203, United States
Experience the power of music in commemorating freedom at NMAAM’s annual Juneteenth Community Day. This free event welcomes all ages to explore African American musical traditions that emerged from emancipation and celebrates the ongoing journey toward liberation through interactive exhibits, live performances, and community engagement.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Live Performances
Throughout the day, enjoy musical performances representing various genres that illuminate the African American experience.
Metro Nashville Human Relations Commission Documentary
Join us from 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM in the Roots Theater for a special documentary screening and panel discussion presented by the Metro Nashville Human Relations Commission.
RSVP TO VIEW THE FILM HERE
Members Lounge
NMAAM members can enjoy exclusive access to our Members Lounge in the Library Resource Center featuring refreshments, special giveaways, and a comfortable space to relax between activities.
Interactive Gallery Experiences
Engage with teaching artists throughout our galleries for hands-on demonstrations connecting music and freedom.
Community Partner Booths
Connect with community organizations and learn about resources and programs available throughout Nashville.
Family Activities
Creative stations for all ages will feature Juneteenth-themed art projects, musical exploration, and educational activities.
SCHEDULE:
10:00 AM: Doors Open – Free Admission Begins
10:30 AM: Welcome Remarks & Opening Performance
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Documentary Screening & Panel (Roots Theater)
Throughout the Day: Interactive Gallery Experiences
4:30 PM: Closing Performance
5:00 PM: Event Conclusion
This event is part of “Bridge to Broadway & Beyond: NMAAM’s Juneteenth Journey” celebrating freedom through music at both NMAAM and Fort Negley.
