Exploring the Legacy of Muscle Shoals: A New Exhibit at the Country Music Hall of Fame

Muscle Shoals: Low Rhythm Rising Exhibition

On November 14, the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum will unveil an expansive new exhibit titled Muscle Shoals: Low Rhythm Rising. Over nearly 5,000 square feet, this exhibit delves into the history and significance of Muscle Shoals as a powerful recording hub during the 1960s and 70s, showcasing its lasting cultural impact.

A Sonic Crossroads

Nestled in a quaint corner of Alabama along the Tennessee River, Muscle Shoals became a sanctuary for creativity where local musicians, producers, and songwriters collaborated to create a distinctive Southern sound that blended R&B, country, blues, and pop. This exhibit captures the essence of how Black and white musicians found common ground to create ground-breaking music during a time of segregation.

The story begins with the founding of FAME Studio by Rick Hall and the subsequent establishment of Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, home to the renowned Swampers house band. These studios drew artists from across the country hoping to tap into the raw and soulful music that this quiet community effortlessly produced.
Notable records that emerged from Muscle Shoals include the likes of Aretha Franklin’s transformational sessions, along with hits from artists such as The Rolling Stones, Bob Seger, and Percy Sledge. The exhibit will feature memorabilia, artifacts, and stories that illustrate the rich tapestry of sound and collaboration that characterized this vibrant musical landscape.