Jefferson Street Sound is a small, two-story museum at 2004 Jefferson St in North Nashville, near Fisk University. Its exhibits trace the Black music scene that once filled Jefferson Street, with memorabilia connected to performers including Jimi Hendrix, Little Richard and Sam Cooke. A guided visit adds stories about the musicians and the community behind the music. The museum is open on Saturdays or by appointment, so arrange a visit ahead if Saturday does not work for you.
Jefferson Street’s music story
Jefferson Street was a major live-music corridor for Nashville’s Black community. Clubs along the street hosted performers such as Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway, Count Basie and Ella Fitzgerald. Little Richard performed on the Chitlin’ Circuit, and Jimi Hendrix played jazz and blues with his early band, the King Kasuals.
The museum connects that music history to the neighborhood that supported it. Its exhibits tell the story of a community with businesses, clubs and a strong cultural life. Construction of I-40 in the 1970s divided the area, and many of its music venues later closed and were demolished.
Inside the museum
The museum occupies a former house, with exhibits arranged across two floors. Its collection includes memorabilia from different decades and objects associated with musicians who spent time on Jefferson Street. The displays are personal in scale, built largely around founder Lorenzo Washington’s collection.
A guided tour puts the objects in context with stories about the musicians and North Nashville. Book ahead to arrange a visit with Washington. The museum is open on Saturdays, with visits at other times by appointment. Live performances and open-mic events are also part of its programming; check with the museum for what is scheduled during your visit.
FAQ
Where is Jefferson Street Sound?
It is at 2004 Jefferson St in North Nashville, near Fisk University.
When can you visit Jefferson Street Sound?
The museum is open on Saturdays. Visits at other times can be arranged by appointment.
What can you see at Jefferson Street Sound?
The two-story museum displays music memorabilia and tells the story of Jefferson Street’s Black music scene, including musicians such as Jimi Hendrix and Little Richard.
