Rockin’ the World

Rockin’ All Over the World

This exhibit includes seven sections, each one dealing with a specific time period in a specific city. The exhibits examine the impact that the music made during that period had on the evolution of rock and roll. In addition to artifacts, each section contains a short video with historic clips and interviews. The films run about five or six minutes each. The following cities are represented:

Memphis - Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On: 1948 - 1959

This section highlights Memphis’ contributions to the early years of rock and roll. It includes the history of Sun Records and deals with such artists as Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis, Roy Orbison, Johnny Cash, Billy Lee Riley and others.

Detroit - Dancin’ in the Street: 1962 - 1971

This portion focuses on Detroit during the Motown era. Among those represented in the exhibit are Berry Gordy Jr., Smokey Robinson, Martha and the Vandellas, the Temptations and Jr. Walker.

London and Liverpool - Ferry Cross the Mersey: 1963 - 1966

This section concentrates on the British Invasion, from early skiffle to Beatlemania and beyond. Featured artists include the Beatles, Yardbirds, Herman’s Hermits, Gerry and the Pacemakers, the Zombies and others.

San Francisco - Somebody to Love: 1965 - 1969

This exhibit focuses on San Francisco during the psychedelic era. It includes artifacts from the key musicians of the era - the Grateful Dead, Country Joe and the Fish, Quicksilver Messenger Service, Janis Joplin and the Jefferson Airplane - as well as other important cultural icons, including Bill Graham and Ralph J. Gleason.

Los Angeles - I Love LA: 1965 - 1979

This area draws attention to the era of the singer/songwriter and country-rock. The troubadour scene, older folk scene and the new electric folk rock are highlighted. Featured artists include the Eagles, the Byrds, Buffalo Springfield, Jackson Browne, Neil Young, Joni Mitchell and Crosby, Stills and Nash.

London/New York - Blank Generation: 1975 - 1980

This section focuses on the development of punk music in London and New York. Some of the artists featured include the Ramones, Patti Smith, The Clash and the Sex Pistols.

Seattle - Smells Like Teen Spirit: 1985 - 1995

This exhibit spotlights the grunge era. The various artifacts define grunge not only as a genre and sound, but also as a scene and fashion statement. Nirvana, Soundgarden, Mudhoney, Alice in Chains and other key artists of the era are all represented.