On October 3, 2025, Nashville opened the doors of the Museum of Christian & Gospel Music, the first American institution dedicated exclusively to the complete history of gospel and Christian music. Located at 402 Commerce Street, one block from the legendary Ryman Auditorium, this 11,000 square foot museum represents a $15 million investment.
A project awaited for more than fifty years
The museum finally houses the GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame, created in 1971 but which existed only in the form of a website and cardboard archives. Jackie Patillo, president of the Gospel Music Association and the first woman and person of color to lead the organization, started this project four years ago. She describes this as an emotional accomplishment, saying she cried when she saw the archives installed in the display cases.
From Fisk Jubilee Singers to contemporary megachurches
The museum traces the evolution of gospel music since the 19th century. Fisk University’s Fisk Jubilee Singers, a historic vocal group that helped give Nashville the nickname Music City, are honored alongside legends like Mahalia Jackson, Andrae Crouch and the Gaithers. The institution celebrates the diversity of styles including African-American gospel, Southern gospel, contemporary Christian music, Christian hip-hop rap and megachurch worship.
Unique collections and interactive experiences
Among the 194 legends honored at the Hall of Fame, visitors discover iconic artifacts. Johnny Cash’s family Bible sits alongside two centuries-old hymn books, Amy Grant‘s mixing console from early recordings and dresses worn by Vestal Goodman, Sandi Patty, Cece Winans and Jenn Johnson.
The museum offers innovative interactive experiences allowing visitors to remix iconic songs, record their own versions and participate in a prayer wall. Steve Gilreath, executive director, says the goal is to create a space where people can touch the music that has touched them.
A Celebration of African American Contribution
Jackie Patillo points out that the term gospel music encompasses a message with many different sounds. The organization of the exhibitions reflects this inclusive vision by avoiding separation by gender. The Artists are presented chronologically or according to common themes, allowing a unified understanding of the Christian musical heritage.
Cultural impact and live programming
The opening coincided with the 56th GMA Dove Awards at Bridgestone Arena on October 7, 2025. The museum regularly hosts live performances, workshops and artist meetings. Inaugural Artist-in-Residence and three-time Hall of Fame inductee Russ Taff inaugurated the Legacy Series with a concert on September 4, 2025.
Steve Gilreath hopes to attract 40,000 annual visitors to this institution which officially legitimizes the contribution of gospel music to American culture.
