Historical image depicting Martin Luther King Jr. singing with a crowd, symbolizing gospel music's vital

From the earliest days of the Civil Rights Movement, Gospel Music served as a dynamic force providing courage and solace in the quest for equality and freedom

As you tour our displays, a companion guidebook highlights the timeless contributions of such luminary artists as Mahalia Jackson, The Staple Singers, and Dorothy Love Coats.

The Museum of Christian & Gospel Music is honored to add its own unique musical dimension to the U.S. Civil Rights Trail, celebrating the artists, activists, and innovators whose voices encouraged and inspired.

In 1963, Mahalia joined Martin Luther King, Jr., a long-time friend, before a crowd of 250,000 at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C., where she preceded the Civil Rights leader in song.

King rose to speak, and Mahalia encouraged him, “Tell them about the dream, Martin. Tell them about the dream!”

A legendary speech followed.

In 1963, Mahalia joined Martin Luther King, Jr., a long-time friend, before a crowd of 250,000 at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C., where she preceded the Civil Rights leader in song.

King rose to speak, and Mahalia encouraged him, “Tell them about the dream, Martin. Tell them about the dream!”

A legendary speech followed.

Image promoting The Museum of Christian & Gospel Music, Nashville, TN, displaying the text "You’ve
Collage honoring gospel music’s influence on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail, featuring Mahalia Jackson, Mavis
Image promoting The Museum of Christian & Gospel Music, Nashville, TN, displaying the text "You’ve
Collage honoring gospel music’s influence on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail, featuring Mahalia Jackson, Mavis
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Museum ticket graphic promoting the GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame at the Museum of
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