It’s a beat.. It’s a pulse.. It’s a movement!
February 10, 2025
When exploring African American cultural excellence in Middle Tennessee, two destinations stand out: the National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) and Nearest Green Distillery. In 2024, we bridged these cultural landmarks through our innovative Rhythm & Whiskey tour series, and we’re thrilled to announce its return for 2025.
The partnership’s impact was recently reinforced during a visit from Nearest Green Distillery’s Chief Marketing Officer, Brielle Caruso. During her first tour of NMAAM, Brielle was particularly moved by the Wade in the Water Gallery, where she learned about the Fisk Jubilee Singers’ pivotal role in Nashville earning its “Music City” moniker – a testament to the deep connections between African American history and Tennessee’s cultural identity.
At first glance, it’s an Apple Watch Sport Loop (watch band) woven with intention, threaded with history. The design? Inspired by the Pan-African flag. A fusion of red, black, and green. But this isn’t just about color. It’s about rhythm. It’s about the unshakable impact of Black culture, a force that moves through music, technology, and the very pulse of our communities.
Apple didn’t stop at the band. They created dynamic watch faces and wallpapers for its’ suite of products. And the best part? This isn’t just performative. Apple is backing their tribute with action, supporting organizations that push Black creativity forward, including us, the National Museum of African American Music.
The Rhythm of Progress Needs You
At NMAAM, we tell the stories behind the sounds. We honor the spirituals that carried hope, the jazz that broke barriers, the hip-hop that rewrote the rules. And just like Apple’s Black Unity Collection, our work is about more than history it’s about the future. About making sure these stories aren’t just remembered but experienced, lived, and amplified.
And that’s where you come in.
By supporting NMAAM through a donation, a membership, or simply by visiting, you’re investing in something bigger than a museum. You’re investing in a living, breathing movement, one that continues to shape the soundtrack of tomorrow.
So here’s the call to action: Don’t just admire the culture power it forward. If Apple’s latest drop reminds us of anything, it’s that unity is an action. Join us. Support NMAAM. Be part of the rhythm.
Become a Member. Make A Difference
Because Black music doesn’t have a timestamp – it’s a pulse that keeps moving. Let’s move with it.
