Open: November 22, 2019
Closes: September 13, 2020
Co-organized with The Met, Play It Loud: The Instruments of Rock & Roll offers a rare, in-depth look at the instruments that inspired the musicians and made possible the songs we know and love. Play It Loud: The Instruments of Rock & Roll is the largest single exhibit the Rock Hall has ever displayed and takes over floors. Fans can expect spectacular new acquisitions and adaptations that make the show unique to its venue. Instruments showcased span from 1939 to today and many have never been displayed outside of their original concert performance settings. This is the only time these iconic instruments will be seen together in one massive collection.
From Bruce Springsteen's guitar to a flamboyant costume worn by Prince, fans can examine personal items up close, including:
Other stories shared and instruments on display include ones played and beloved by the Beatles, Eric Clapton, Kurt Cobain, Sheryl Crow, Bo Diddley, The Eagles, Kim Gordon, Wanda Jackson, Joan Jett, Metallica, Joni Mitchell, Kate Pierson, Elvis Presley, the Rolling Stones, the Roots, Patti Smith, Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Nancy Wilson and other rock & roll greats. Also, on display are several rigs used in live performances and sound recordings, along with exclusive interview footage featuring Tom Morello, Keith Richards and Eddie Van Halen.