Music and Performing Arts

The Music and Performing Arts Collection at the National Museum of African American History and Culture represents African American artistic and cultural expression through music, dance, theater, radio, film and television along with other forms of popular entertainment. Through a collection of objects, costumes, musical instruments, photographs, films, business correspondence, sheet music and other memorabilia, the museum will tell the story of African American artistic achievement, innovation and creativity. It also will use arts and entertainment to explore social and cultural change as played out regionally, nationally and around the world.

James Brown's speaker, cabinet and organ

Photo courtesy of Christie's.

This Harmonics Trek II electric organ and speaker cabinet — covered in black vinyl and trimmed with silver roping, with J.B. in red vinyl on the speaker cabinet, and Godfather on the back of the organ — clearly identifies Brown as the Godfather of Soul.

Bo Diddley’s "Trademark" Hat, 1992-2007

Photo courtesy of Julien's Auctions.

This black felt hat was worn on stage by Bo Diddley for the last 15 years of his career and during his final performance on May 12, 2007. It features the silver medallion he designed, bearing the name "BO."

Tin Man costume, from the Broadway production of The Wiz, 1975

As part of the Black Fashion Museum Collection, the museum acquired costumes that were designed by Geoffrey Holder for the Broadway musical The Wiz, placing a modern twist on the classic fairy tale with an all-black cast. The Tin Man was performed by Tiger Haynes, part of the cast that won 7 Tony Awards for the musical.