Musical Crossroads: The Stories Behind the Objects of African American Music

Music is the great equalizer around the world, and African American music has played a significant role in shaping the human experience. African American music originated out of a heritage shaped by the Transatlantic Slave Trade and forced enslavement, and was a means of survival, a treatise on the struggle for freedom, and an agent of social change. Musical Crossroads explores how objects can expand our understanding of the ways African American music-making continues to shape and influence society.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2023
Publisher: D Giles Ltd

Music, a universal language that transcends borders and cultures, has played a pivotal role in shaping the human experience and preserving our collective history for centuries. Its origins in African American culture, intricately woven with the legacy of the Transatlantic Slave Trade and forced enslavement, have given rise to a rich and diverse musical tapestry that has defined American music.

In the face of adversity, African American music emerged as a powerful tool for survival, a testament to the unwavering pursuit of freedom, and a catalyst for social change. It has given birth to a multitude of musical styles and performance traditions, each reflecting the unique experiences and struggles of the African American community.

Musical Crossroads, a captivating exhibition at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, delves into the profound ways in which African American music-making continues to shape and influence society. Through a series of thematic chapters, accompanied by insightful essays and shorter features written by museum staff, the exhibition offers a captivating journey into the world of African American music.

The exhibition features a stunning array of objects that serve as windows into the rich history and legacy of African American music. From iconic musical instruments such as Johnny Mathis' piano and Bo Diddleys' Gretsch Guitar to personal belongings and photographs that capture the essence of influential artists like Nina Simone and Queen Latifah, these objects provide a tangible connection to the music and the artists who have made it.

Each thematic chapter explores a different aspect of African American music, from its roots in the blues and gospel to its evolution into jazz, soul, and hip-hop. The exhibition also highlights the contributions of African American DJs, producers, record labels, and journalists who have played pivotal roles in shaping the music industry and promoting cultural awareness.

Among the featured objects are Radio Raheems original boombox, used in Spike Lee's 1989 film "Do the Right Thing," which serves as a powerful reminder of the role music plays in expressing social and political commentary. The original Public Enemy logo necklace, accompanied by a story from rapper Chuck D about the group's name's origin, adds another layer of depth to the exhibition's exploration of the influence of African American music on popular culture.

Numerous illustrated profiles and stories, accompanied by photographs and magazine covers, showcase the contributions of a host of DJs, producers, Black-owned record labels, Black music press, and artists. These profiles provide a glimpse into the lives and careers of individuals who have left an indelible mark on African American music, from Berry Gordy Jr., the visionary behind Motown Records, to Isaac Hayes, the legendary producer and songwriter.

The exhibition also features a collection of photographs taken by Hip-hop photographer Al Pereira while he was filming the music video for "Fly Girl" by Queen Latifah. These images capture the energy and creativity of the African American community, highlighting the fusion of music, fashion, and culture that has defined African American music over the years.

Musical Crossroads is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the African American community, and its impact on the world of music is immeasurable. Through its engaging exhibitions, educational programs, and collections, the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture continues to celebrate and preserve the rich heritage of African American music, ensuring that its legacy is passed down to future generations.

In conclusion, music is a universal language that has the power to unite people, bridge gaps, and shape our collective history. African American music, born out of a complex history of struggle and resilience, has played a pivotal role in defining American music and shaping the human experience. The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture's exhibition, Musical Crossroads, offers a captivating journey into the world of African American music, showcasing its rich heritage, evolution, and ongoing influence on society. By exploring the objects, stories, and profiles featured in the exhibition, we gain a deeper understanding of the ways in which African American music continues to shape and inspire us today.

Weight: 1516g
Dimension: 341 x 288 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911282877