Black History Month in Nashville

See some ways to connect with the Black culture that has shaped Middle Tennessee.

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Nashville owes much of its iconic identity to its rich Black history. 

From the voices that gave it the Music City moniker to the flavors and landmarks that define Nashville, there are countless ways to connect with the Black culture that has shaped Middle Tennessee. 

Music City Roots

If you think the name Music City came solely from Nashville’s colossal country music scene, think again. The signature nickname was originally credited to the Fisk Jubilee Singers of Nashville’s very own Fisk University. The first choral ensemble was organized in 1871 and has been introducing and sustaining the tradition of the Negro spiritual ever since by traveling the world singing sacred songs. Legend has it that when Queen Victoria traveled to hear their tour, she was so impressed that she proclaimed that the singers must be from ‘a city of music.’ And the rest is (Music City) history. Today, Fisk University remains a cultural cornerstone of Nashville. The Fisk campus is a National Historic District in recognition of its architectural, historic, and cultural significance. Jubilee Hall, built in 1876, is a National Historical Landmark and remains the dramatic focal point of Fisk’s campus today.

Nashville’s Signature Dish

A trip to the city wouldn’t be complete without a bite of the famous Nashville Hot Chicken. The fiery, crispy delight traces its roots back to Thornton Prince in the 1930s. Story says that Prince’s girlfriend made him a batch of fried chicken with a devilish amount of peppers and spices in retaliation for his antics, but instead of being deterred, Prince loved the intense heat and began perfecting his own spicy recipe. Today, Nashville Hot Chicken is a must-try for locals and visitors alike, with several restaurants — notably Prince’s Hot Chicken — serving up countless versions of this beloved culinary creation.

Whiskey’s Hidden Hero

Nearest Green Distillery, located outside the city in Shelbyville, honors Nathan “Nearest” Green’s legacy and highlights the often- overlooked role of African Americans in the spirits industry. Green, America’s first known Black master distiller, played a crucial role in the development of Tennessee Whiskey. He taught the renowned Jack Daniels how to distill whiskey and worked alongside him. Opened by Fawn Weaver in 2019, the distillery offers tours, tastings, and a chance to learn more about Green’s contributions to the craft.

The Only State-Funded HBCU in Tennessee

Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University is a historically Black college that has produced leaders in business, education, and more, including trailblazers like Wilma Rudolph and Oprah Winfrey. The campus reflects a remarkable legacy in higher education and civil rights, underscoring its integral contributions to Nashville’s African American community and beyond.

See it for Yourself

One of Nashville’s newest cultural landmarks is the National Museum of African American Music, which opened its doors in 2021. Situated in the heart of downtown, the museum tells the story of African Americans’ endless contributions to the American music landscape from jazz to blues to gospel, hip-hop, and beyond. With stunning distinct galleries, NMAAM explores how Black musicians have created and/or influenced more than 50 genres of music through rare artifacts, memorabilia, objects, clothing, and state-of-the-art technology designed to share different narratives and unique perspectives.

Country Music’s Groundbreaker

Nashville has long been home to Black musicians that shaped the genre. Charley Pride, the genre’s first Black superstar, made history with his chart-topping hits in the 1960s and 70s. His groundbreaking talent and success challenged the norms of a racially segregated industry, and lead to him becoming the first African American inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. His career broke barriers and paved the way for future Black artists in the genre. Pride’s legacy is commemorated with a statue outside of Ryman Auditorium.

Wilma Rudolph Exhibit

Learn about Clarksville’s hometown hero Wilma Rudolph at its Customs House Museum & Cultural Center. Rudolph made history at the 1960 Rome Olympics, becoming the first American woman to win three gold medals in one Olympics and (then) the “fastest woman in the world.” Rudolph overcame several obstacles and was a pioneer for civil rights and women’s rights. The legendary sprinter and TSU alum’s relay baton is on display, as well as a life-sized bronze statue in the exhibit.

Black-Owned Businesses to Know

  • Woodcuts Gallery & Framing
  • Emerson Grace
  • N.B. Goods
  • The Nashville Black Market
  • The Southern V
  • Coneheads
  • Slim & Husky’s
  • All People Coffee
  • Ebb & Iv