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  •

    "Niggy" necklace owned by Saul Williams

    Designed by
    Eshani, Melody, American
    Owned by
    Williams, Saul, American, born 1972
    Medium
    metal, plastic
    Dimensions
    H x W x D: 11 1/4 × 3 15/16 × 1/2 in. (28.6 × 10 × 1.3 cm)
    Type
    necklaces
    Date
    2007
    Description
    Necklace featuring the word [Niggy] in cursive-style letters. "Niggy" is made of a light blue plastic with red pigment on top. Word is on a black plastic background, shaped around the letters. At either end of the word is a small plastic circle where the metal necklace attaches. Metal portion of necklace is a chain with clasp at the top for closure.
    Topic
    African American
    Beauty culture
    Clothing and dress
    Fashion
    Hip hop (Music)
    Identity
    Language
    Rock and roll (Music)
    Credit Line
    Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Saul Williams
    Object number
    2014.188.4
    See more items in
    National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
    Classification
    Adornment
    Exhibition
    Musical Crossroads
    On View
    NMAAHC (1400 Constitution Ave NW), National Mall Location, Culture/Fourth Floor, 4 053
    Data Source
    National Museum of African American History and Culture
  •

    "Tardust" ring owned by Saul Williams

    Designed by
    Eshani, Melody, American
    Owned by
    Williams, Saul, American, born 1972
    Medium
    metal, plastic
    Dimensions
    H x W x D: 1 3/8 × 3 1/8 × 13/16 in. (3.5 × 7.9 × 2.1 cm)
    Type
    finger rings
    Date
    2007
    Description
    Ring featuring the word [Tardust] in cursive-style letters at the top of the ring. Letters made of a light blue-green plastic with red and yellow pigment. Word is on a plastic black background, shaped around the letters. Top of the ring adhered to shank that holds three fingers. Shank made of three sections of white plastic.
    Topic
    African American
    Beauty culture
    Clothing and dress
    Fashion
    Hip hop (Music)
    Identity
    Language
    Music
    Rock and roll (Music)
    Credit Line
    Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Saul Williams
    Object number
    2014.188.5
    See more items in
    National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
    Classification
    Adornment
    Exhibition
    Musical Crossroads
    On View
    NMAAHC (1400 Constitution Ave NW), National Mall Location, Culture/Fourth Floor, 4 053
    Data Source
    National Museum of African American History and Culture

  • Postcard advertising Niggy Tardust First Show Ever

    Created by
    Williams, Saul, American, born 1972
    Subject of
    Lichtenstein, Roy, American, 1923 - 1997
    Medium
    ink on paper
    Dimensions
    H x W: 4 1/16 × 6 1/16 in. (10.3 × 15.4 cm)
    Type
    postcards
    Place printed
    Austin, Travis County, Texas, United States, North and Central America
    Date
    2008
    Description
    The front of the postcard features four artworks by Roy Lichtenstein in each quadrant of the postcard. The reproduced artwork in the upper left corner, originally entitled "Forget it! Forget Me!” depicts the proper left side of a man's face with a woman in the background. A callout is above the woman and to the right of the man [BUT SWEETIE, / I GOT US TICKETS!]. The reproduced work in the upper right corner is "Kiss V." The image depicts a man and woman embracing, with the woman on the left side and the man on the right. The woman is seen crying with her proper right hand grasping the man's proper left shoulder. The reproduced work in the lower left corner is from the work "Ohhh...Alright..." with black text replacing the original words [SO BETH, WHAT / HAPPENED / TO TOM?]. The image depicts a red haired woman talking into the black handset of a telephone. In the lower right corner is the work "Oh, Jeff... I love you, too... But..." with the original text replaced by [TOM WHO?! / GIRLFRIEND, / IT'S ALL ABOUT / JAMAL NOW!!]. The image depicts a blond haired woman talking into the white handset of a telephone. In the middle of the quadrants at the center it lists the artists featured in the advertised gallery in stylized font [saul williams is now / NIGGY TARDUST / FIRST SHOW EVER/ w"/" the NOISETTES, EARL GREY HOUND / GAME REBELLION, THE EXIT, THE THIRST, AFROBOTS]. Above the top two quadrants to right is black text [Matrix Presents Afro-Punk]. In the lower right corner is a column of text with the venue information [Wednesday 12th March / VICE aka EXODUS / 304 6th St. / Austin, TX, 78701 / Tel. 512-477-7523]. To the left of the column of text is a red logo advertising the car manufacturer Toyota and the car called the Matrix. The logo includes the Toyota symbol to the left of text [TOYOTA / MATRIX]. In a circle in the lower left quadrant is the time for the event [7PM / SHARP!!]. The circle has a thick black rim. On the reverse of the postcard is a black, white, and blue illustration in the style of Lichtenstein. The image depicts a woman with black hair crying. She raises her proper right hand to her proper right cheek. Above her head, right of center in the top half of the image, is a thought bubble with black text [OH GOD! WHY CAN'T / MY BOYFRIEND BE / AFRO-PUNK?!]. In the lower right corner of the image is a black and white illustration of a man who looks at the woman. Surrounding the illustration is a thick black border. Behind both figures, is a blue background with white polka dots.
    Topic
    African American
    Art
    Graphic design
    Hip hop (Music)
    Identity
    Language
    Rock and roll (Music)
    Credit Line
    Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Saul Williams
    Object number
    2014.188.6
    See more items in
    National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
    Classification
    Memorabilia and Ephemera-Advertisements
    Data Source
    National Museum of African American History and Culture
  • Playbill for The Who’s Tommy

    Playbill for The Who’s Tommy

    Published by
    Playbill, American, founded 1884
    Used by
    St. James Theatre, American, founded 1927
    Subject of
    Townshend, Pete, British, born 1945
    Medium
    ink on paper
    Dimensions
    H x W: 8 1/2 x 5 3/8 in. (21.6 x 13.7 cm)
    Type
    theater programs
    Place used
    New York City, New York, United States, North and Central America
    Date
    1993-1995
    Description
    Playbill for The Who’s Tommy. White background with yellow box at top; white box below with graphic repeatedly spelling out the title, as well as lyrics. [PLAYBILL/ST. JAMES THEATRE/THE/WHO'S/TOMMY/THE/WHO'S/TOMMY/THE/WHO'S/TOMMY/TOMMY/CAN YOU/HEAR ME/THE/WHO'S/EVER SINCE/I WAS A/YOUNG BOY]
    Topic
    African American
    Broadway Theatre
    Musical Theatre
    Rock and roll (Music)
    Credit Line
    Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Kayla Deigh Owens
    Object number
    2011.45.95
    Restrictions & Rights
    Playbill used by permission. All rights reserved, Playbill Inc.
    See more items in
    National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
    Classification
    Memorabilia and Ephemera
    Data Source
    National Museum of African American History and Culture

  • Rock-N-Roll Revue

    35mm motion picture film of Rock-N-Roll Revue
    Created by
    Studio Films, Inc., American, 1951 - 1956
    Directed by
    Kohn, Joseph
    Produced by
    Frye, Ben, American
    Subject of
    Apollo Theater, founded 1913
    Ellington, Duke, American, 1899 - 1974
    Lionel Hampton, American, 1908 - 2002
    Vaughan, Sarah, American, 1924 - 1990
    Russell, Nipsey, American, 1918 - 2005
    Coles & Atkins, American, 1940 - 1959
    Darnell, Larry, American, 1921 - 1983
    Bryant, Willie, American, 1908 - 1964
    The Clovers, American, founded 1946
    Washington, Dinah, American, 1924 - 1963
    Cole, Nat King, American, 1919 - 1965
    Big Turner, Joe, American, 1911 - 1985
    Reed, Leonard, American, 1907 - 2004
    Owned by
    Bowser, Pearl, American, born 1931
    Medium
    35mm Film (a): acetate film;
    35mm Film (b): acetate film;
    35mm Film (c): acetate film;
    35mm Film (d): acetate film
    Dimensions
    Duration: 70 Minutes
    Length (Film) - Reel 1: 1630 Feet
    Length (Film) - Reel 2: 1765 Feet
    Length (Film) - Reel 3: 1520 Feet
    Length (Film) - Reel 4: 1440 Feet
    Type
    motion pictures (information artifacts)
    Place depicted
    Harlem, New York City, New York, United States, North and Central America
    Date
    1955
    Caption
    "Rock-n-Roll Revue" is a 1955 feature film compiled by Studio Films, Inc. from previously recorded Snader Telescriptions featuring renowned African American jazz singers and musicians from the 1950s. The film includes performances by Duke Ellington, Larry Darnell, Coles and Atkins, The Clovers, Dinah Washington, Nat King Cole, Big Joe Turner, Willie Bryant, and Leonard Reed.
    Description
    35mm black and white compilation film of a variety of short musical 'Soundie' films made for music-film jukeboxes, and television, by the Snader Telescription and Studio companies in the 1950s.
    Consists of: Four 35mm Film Prints (a-d) and Original Film Reels (e-h).
    2012.79.1.84.1a-d: 35mm film. The film begins with a title sequence that announces each performer as a firework explodes behind their name. A credit roll then displays the below the line contributors. Next, an announcer introduces the emcee, Willie Bryant, during a shot of a theater audience. Bryant emerges from behind a curtain as the audience applauds. He begins his introduction of the show’s proceedings; he refers to the show as the “Harlem Variety Revue.” Bryant then introduces the first performer, Duke Ellington. The curtain parts and Ellington and his orchestra perform “The Mooche.” After the conclusion of the song, the curtain closes and there are multiple shots of the audience cheering as Willie Bryant again appears to announce the next performer, Larry Darnell. Darnell performs “What More Do You Want Me To Do.” After the performance ends, the curtains close while Darnell bows and the audience cheers. Willie Bryant then emerges onstage as the curtains re-open and Darnell bows in Bryant’s direction. The two men then exchange playful gestures and Bryant tells a joke. Bryant segues into an introduction of the tap dancing duo, Coles & Atkins. The duo then perform a short routine. After the routine, Bryant, Coles and Atkins perform a comedic piece based around Bryant interrupting their performance. Coles & Atkins then goad Bryant into dancing with them and the three men perform a brief routine. There are multiple shots of the audience cheering when they leave the stage. Bryant then introduces The Clovers, who perform “Your Cash Ain’t Nothin’ But Trash.” After the song ends, there is another comedy routine with Willie Bryant, Coles & Atkins, and Leonard Reed. There are multiple shots of the audience before Bryant introduces Dinah Washington, who performs “Only a Moment Ago.” Bryant then introduces Nat King Cole, who performs “The Trouble With Me Is You.” After multiple shots of the audience when the song concludes, Bryant again introduces Duke Ellington, who performs “The Hawk Talks” with his orchestra. There are multiple shots of the drummer Louie Bellson as he performs a drum solo during the song. Bryant introduces Big Joe Turner by way of a comedy bit with Leonard Reed. Turner performs “Oke-She-Moke-She-Pop” with backing by the Paul Williams Band. The film concludes with a shot of the audience cheering.
    2012.79.1.84.1e-h: Original film reels.
    Topic
    African American
    Comedy
    Entertainers
    Film
    Jazz (Music)
    Musicians
    Rhythm and blues (Music)
    Rock and roll (Music)
    Tap dancing
    Variety shows (Television)
    Credit Line
    Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Pearl Bowser
    Object number
    2012.79.1.84.1a-d
    Restrictions & Rights
    Unknown - Restrictions Possible
    See more items in
    National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
    Collection title
    Pearl Bowser Collection
    Classification
    Media Arts-Film and Video
    Data Source
    National Museum of African American History and Culture

  • Prototype for Meshell Ndegeocello Reverend Fellowship Bass guitar

    Designed by
    Ndegeocello, Meshell, German-American, born 1968
    Used by
    Ndegeocello, Meshell, German-American, born 1968
    Manufactured by
    Reverend Musical Instruments, American, founded 1996
    Ace Products Group, American, founded 1983
    Medium
    Guitar (.1): korina (wood), chrome, rosewood, walnut, graphite, metal, and plastic;
    Case (.2): polyvinyl chloride, polyester, and plastic
    Dimensions
    guitar (.1): 46 1/2 × 13 × 2 3/4 in. (118.1 × 33 × 7 cm)
    case (.2): 49 × 17 11/16 × 4 1/2 in. (124.5 × 44.9 × 11.4 cm)
    Type
    electric guitars
    musical instruments
    Place made
    South Korea, Asia
    Date
    2014
    Description
    This is the official prototype of the Meshell Ndegeocello Reverend Fellowship Bass guitar played by Meshell Ndegeocello in her 2014 tours of Japan and Europe.
    Guitar (.1): The guitar has a satin black body with a unique shape, a chrome bridge, output jack, volume/tone knob, and tuners; satin black pickups; a black plastic scratchguard; a dark brown rosewood neck with inlayed faux mother-of-pearl; reverse headstock; metal frets; and metal strings with a blue coating in the headstock area. Although there are two guitar strap buttons on the top left edge of the guitar and the bottom edge below the bridge of the guitar, this guitar does not have a strap. Handwritten notation in silver marker on the back of the headstock that reads, ZSG #17380.
    Case (.2): A black, PVC “leatherette” Kaces III Brand Gig Bag (model KLB20) used by Ndegeocello to store/transport the bass guitar. The case has a foam padded interior covered in black polyester, padded backpack straps, a quited grip handle with velco closure, and a large, diagonal accessory pocket with a hidden zipper.
    Topic
    African American
    Funk (Music)
    Jazz (Music)
    Neo-Soul (Music)
    Rock and roll (Music)
    Soul (Music)
    Credit Line
    Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Meshell Ndegeocello
    Object number
    2015.8.1-.2
    Restrictions & Rights
    No Known Copyright Restrictions
    See more items in
    National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
    Classification
    Musical Instruments
    Data Source
    National Museum of African American History and Culture
  • Poster for a Black Rock festival in Italy

    Poster for a Black Rock festival in Italy

    Subject of
    Black Rock Coalition, American, founded 1985
    Medium
    ink on paper
    Dimensions
    H x W: 39 3/8 × 27 9/16 in. (100 × 70 cm)
    Type
    posters
    Place used
    Bari, Italy, Europe
    Date
    ca. 1991
    Description
    A Black Rock Festival poster used at the Renoir Club in Bari, Italy with primary colors that are white, black, red, green, and yellow throughout. The header, top third, is black with mainly white type, that reads "LA GAZZETTA/ DEL MEZZOGIORNO" in the top left corner. The logo for Associazione/ culturale/ izimbra" is in the center, and "MINISTERO DEL TURISMO/ E DELLO SPETTACOLO/ COMUNE DI BARI/ Assessorato allo Spettacolo" at top right. Underneath in red and green type with white bordering, are letters that read "BLACK ROCK" with "FESTIVAL" spread out underneath in yellow type. There is a small blurb underneath the header, with a white banner with black centered type that reads "tributo a Jimi Hendrix ~ da Hendrix alla Black Rock Coalition." Below the remainder of the poster is split into three columns/sections, all separated by white jagged lines. The left column features red with black type with two white abstract depictions of guitars, mirrored, touching heads. On the inside top guitar, reads "24 GIUGNO" with "JJ JUMPERS/ JEAN PAUL BOURELLY/ KELVYNATOR X SLAM-FUNK POSSE" written underneath. Inside the bottom guitar reads "26 GIUGNO" with "GOOD GUYS/ D-XTREME/ BLACK ROCK ORCHESTRA" underneath. There is also a black logo for Doctor Musik Nice Price in the middle, outside of the guitars to the left. The middle column, gray with black and white text, has a black abstract guitar sitting on its body, with white facial features on the body of the guitar. Above, in black type, letters read "RENOIR CLUB - BARI/ VIA M. LOSACCO 8/~ore 21.00~." Underneath, in white type, reads "~PREVENDITE~/ DOCTOR MUSIK NICE PRICE/ Via Putignani, 215 - BARI/ Tel. 080/ 5246686/ DOCTOR MUSIK/ Via P. Amedeo, 154-BARI/ Tel. 080/ 5210856 5244686/ CANTON BLUE/ V.le Unita d'Italia, 63/8 - BARI/ Tel. 080/5575532/ RACCOMANDATO DA/ radionorba" in various fonts and sizes. The right column features green with black type on two white abstract depictions of guitars that are mirrored, touching heads. Inside the top guitar are letters that read "25 GUIGNO" with "P.B.R. STREET GANG/ TASHAN/ GAInside the bottom guitar words read "27 GUIGNO" with "MICHAEL HILL'S BLUESLAND/ BLACK ROCK ORCHESTRA/ Featuring BERNIE WORRELL" underneath. There is also a black logo for Doctor Musik, 1998, Dischi, in black type, centered to the right. There is a white border around the entire poster.
    Topic
    African American
    Associations and institutions
    Hip hop (Music)
    Jazz (Music)
    Mass media
    Resistance
    Rhythm and blues (Music)
    Rock and roll (Music)
    Credit Line
    Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of the Black Rock Coalition - LaRonda Davis, President
    Object number
    2015.42.12
    Restrictions & Rights
    Unknown - Restrictions Possible
    See more items in
    National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
    Classification
    Documents and Published Materials
    Data Source
    National Museum of African American History and Culture
  • Ravers: The Black Rock Coalition Arts Magazine: Winter 1994

    Ravers: The Black Rock Coalition Arts Magazine: Winter 1994

    Published by
    Positive Press Inc., American
    Subject of
    Black Rock Coalition, American, founded 1985
    Ndegeocello, Meshell, German-American, born 1968
    Mother's Finest
    Get Set V.O.P., American, founded 1993
    Run-D.M.C., American, 1981 - 2002
    Patra, Jamaican, born 1972
    Terri & Monica, American
    Medium
    ink on paper
    Dimensions
    H x W (folded): 7 3/4 × 11 1/2 in. (19.7 × 29.2 cm)
    H x W (unfolded): 14 7/8 × 11 in. (37.8 × 27.9 cm)
    Type
    magazines (periodicals)
    Place printed
    New York City, New York, United States, North and Central America
    Date
    1994
    Description
    A copy of Black Rock Coalition's (BRC) Ravers magazine, Winter 1994. The title reads "RAVERS/ THE BLACK ROCK COALITION ARTS MAGAZINE" in different fonts, centered at top, with the words "Winter 1994" below to the left and "Volume 1 Number 2" below to the right. The main image of the unfolded front page is a woman wearing a black floor-length skirt, a bandeau across the breast, and an asymmetrical vest, with her hands raised behind her head and her eyes closed, on a solid background. The caption reads "MOTHER'S FINEST/ GET SET V.O.P. / RUN-DMC/ KELVYN BELL/ PATRA/ TERRI & MONICA" on the left, and "BEATNIK NOUVEAU/ ME'SHELL NDEGEOCELLO/ (N-DAY-GAY-O-CHELLO)" underneath, centered. The interior pages are off-white with black type and black-and-white images. Back cover has a large ad for BRC, reading "SUPPORT THE BLACK ROCK COALITION" at the top with a BRC logo underneath, with the words "TO BECOME A MEMBER SEND YOUR/ NAME AND ADDRES TO THE BLACK/ ROCK COALITION, P.O. BOX 1054,/ COOPER STATION, NEW YORK, NY/ 10276."
    Topic
    African American
    Associations and institutions
    Mass media
    Metal (Music)
    Punk (Music)
    Rhythm and blues (Music)
    Rock and roll (Music)
    Credit Line
    Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of the Black Rock Coalition - LaRonda Davis, President
    Object number
    2015.42.14.8.3
    Restrictions & Rights
    Unknown - Restrictions Possible
    See more items in
    National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
    Classification
    Documents and Published Materials-Published Works
    Data Source
    National Museum of African American History and Culture
  • Poster for Stalking Heads 2 concert

    Poster for Stalking Heads 2 concert

    Designed by
    Williams, Steve
    Subject of
    Black Rock Coalition, American, founded 1985
    Medium
    ink on paper
    Dimensions
    H x W: 39 11/16 × 52 1/2 in. (100.8 × 133.4 cm)
    Type
    posters
    Place used
    New York City, New York, United States, North and Central America
    Date
    ca. 1987
    Description
    This poster advertises the Stalking Heads 2 concert. The left side has a black background with white text, while the right side is white background with black text. There is a jagged line down the center separating the two. In the top left corner are the words "BLACK ROCK/ COALITION/ Presents." Below this in the center of the left field are the words "STALKING-/ HEADS / 2." Part of the last letters run into the white background, and are partly done in black ink. On the right side of the poster are lists of the various bands and the dates they are playing. From top to bottom they read " APRIL 30/ Mike Hill Band/ Eye & I / JJ Jumpers/ Blueprint / MAY 1 / P.B.R. Streetgang / Kelvynator / Michael Gregory / The Deed / PLUS / Closing Both Nites / BRC Super Band / Featuring / Vernon Reid. Ronnie Drayton/ Jared Nickerson. Will Calhoun / Mike Hampton. Corey Glover." Across the bottom of the poster are the words "CBGB 315 Bowery (Bleeker) (212)982-4052 / Don't Miss Our Post Heads Party, May 2 At/ Jazz Diaspora 317 W. 125 St. Performing: IQ (212) 222-0442." In the bottom right corner are the words "Poster by Steve Williams."
    Topic
    African American
    Art
    Mass media
    Rock and roll (Music)
    Stereotypes
    Credit Line
    Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of the Black Rock Coalition - LaRonda Davis, President
    Object number
    2015.42.4
    Restrictions & Rights
    Unknown - Restrictions Possible
    See more items in
    National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
    Classification
    Memorabilia and Ephemera
    Data Source
    National Museum of African American History and Culture
  • Business contract and letter between Club Harlem and the Dell-tones

    Business contract and letter between Club Harlem and the Dell-tones

    Created by
    American Guild of Variety Artists, founded 1939
    Used by
    Club Harlem, American, 1935 - 1986
    Received by
    Delltones
    Subject of
    Alton, Ben
    Medium
    ink on paper
    Dimensions
    H x W: 11 x 8 1/2 in. (27.9 x 21.6 cm)
    Type
    contracts
    Place depicted
    32 N. Kentucky Avenue, Atlantic City, Atlantic County, New Jersey, United States, North and Central America
    Date
    March 31, 1956
    Description
    A letter (a) and business contract (b) between Club Harlem and the musical group the Delltones obligating the musicians to perform at the club for two (2) consecutive days starting March 31, 1956 for one hundred and twenty-five dollars ($125.00) paid immediately after the first performance. The contract was drawn up on a contract form created by the American Guild of Variety Artists. The contract is signed and dated by the Delltones: Ben, Stan and Pat. A letter is attached to the contract from Gale Agency Inc., addressed to Pop Williams, stating that the contract between Club Harlem and the Delltones is enclosed and is a copy for his files. The letter is signed by Bill Peterson.
    Topic
    African American
    Business
    Musicians
    Nightlife
    Rock and roll (Music)
    Credit Line
    Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Henrietta W. Shelton, Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation, Inc.
    Object number
    2011.145.4.2ab
    Restrictions & Rights
    No Known Copyright Restrictions
    See more items in
    National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
    Classification
    Documents and Published Materials-Business and Legal Documents
    Data Source
    National Museum of African American History and Culture
  • Playbill for Hair

    Playbill for Hair

    Published by
    Playbill, American, founded 1884
    Used by
    Samuel J. Friedman Theatre, American, founded 1925
    Subject of
    Burks, Donnie, American, 1939 - 2008
    Curry, Steve
    Dyson, Ronnie, American, 1950 - 1990
    Eaton, Sally, American, born 1946
    Keaton, Diane, American, born 1946
    McGuire, Barry, American, born 1935
    Milford, Richard Kim, American, 1951 - 1988
    Moore, Melba, American, born 1945
    Plimpton, Shelley, American, born 1947
    Medium
    ink on paper
    Dimensions
    H x W: 9 x 6 in. (22.9 x 15.2 cm)
    Type
    theater programs
    Place used
    New York City, New York, United States, North and Central America
    Date
    1967
    Description
    Playbill for Hair. White background with yellow box at top; white box below, title is black block lettering. [Biltmore/Theatre/PLAYBILL/the national magazine for theatregoers/I/HAIR] White circular sticker on back, handwritten 1968.
    Transcription Center Status
    Transcribed by digital volunteers
    Topic
    African American
    Actors
    Broadway Theatre
    Musical Theatre
    Rock and roll (Music)
    Credit Line
    Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Kayla Deigh Owens
    Object number
    2011.45.39
    Restrictions & Rights
    Playbill used by permission. All rights reserved, Playbill Inc.
    See more items in
    National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
    Classification
    Memorabilia and Ephemera
    Data Source
    National Museum of African American History and Culture
  • The Two Kings, Elvis Presley with B.B. King at WDIA Goodwill Review, Memphis, TN

    The Two Kings, Elvis Presley with B.B. King at WDIA Goodwill Review, Memphis, TN

    Created by
    Dr. Withers, Ernest C., American, 1922 - 2007
    Subject of
    Presley, Elvis, American, 1935 - 1977
    King, B.B., American, 1925 - 2015
    Medium
    silver and photographic gelatin on photographic paper
    Dimensions
    H x W: 20 x 16 in. (50.8 x 40.6 cm)
    Type
    gelatin silver prints
    portraits
    Place depicted
    Memphis, Shelby County, Tennessee, United States, North and Central America
    Date
    December 7, 1957
    Description
    On the left, Elvis Presley wears a necktie and striped jacket and puts his arm around the shoulders of B.B. King, right, who wears a bowtie and plaid jacket with a pocket square.
    Topic
    African American
    Blues (Music)
    Photography
    Rock and roll (Music)
    Singers (Musicians)
    Credit Line
    Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
    Object number
    2009.16.23
    Restrictions & Rights
    © Ernest C. Withers Trust
    See more items in
    National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
    Classification
    Media Arts-Photography
    Data Source
    National Museum of African American History and Culture
  • Felt hat with medallion worn by Bo Diddley

    Felt hat with medallion worn by Bo Diddley

    Created by
    Resistol Hats, American, founded 1927
    Owned by
    Diddley, Bo, American, 1928 - 2008
    Medium
    felt, silver
    Dimensions
    H x W (hat): 5 3/4 x 12 x 13 in. (14.6 x 30.5 x 33 cm)
    L x W (hatbox): 18 1/2 x 15 x 8 in. (47 x 38.1 x 20.3 cm)
    Type
    hats
    Date
    ca. 1992
    Description
    Hat worn on stage by Bo Diddley for the last 15 years of his career, including his final performance on May 12, 2007. The hat is made of black felt, with brown trim around the brim and a wide black ribbon band featuring the silver medallion bearing the name "BO" designed by Diddly himself. There are several other decorative elements attached to the band: a round "BLUES" pin, a Smokey Bear pin, a Florida Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry pin, and a gold pin in the shape of an alligator.
    Topic
    African American
    Blues (Music)
    Clothing and dress
    Instrumentalists (Musicians)
    Rhythm and blues (Music)
    Rock and roll (Music)
    Singers (Musicians)
    Credit Line
    Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
    Object number
    2009.42.1ab
    Restrictions & Rights
    No Known Copyright Restrictions
    See more items in
    National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
    Classification
    Clothing-Costume
    Exhibition
    Musical Crossroads
    On View
    NMAAHC (1400 Constitution Ave NW), National Mall Location, Culture/Fourth Floor, 4 053
    Data Source
    National Museum of African American History and Culture

  • Schematic drawing of stage requirements for The Jackson Five

    Created by
    Unidentified
    Subject of
    The Jackson 5, American, 1964 - 1975
    Medium
    pigment on printing paper, plastic, pressure-sensitive tape
    Dimensions
    H x W (Paper): 6 1/4 × 8 1/2 in. (15.9 × 21.6 cm)
    H x W (Overall): 7 1/2 × 9 7/16 in. (19 × 24 cm)
    Type
    plans (drawings)
    Date
    1971
    Description
    A photocopy of a hand drawn diagram for the Jackson Five's stage requirements. The diagram is in black pigment on white paper. It details a stage, barrier, drum riser, and stage wings with dimensions for all elements provided. The back of the diagram is blank. The paper is dye cut at the top with two holes and there are multiple small holes, likely from staples, on the upper left of the paper. The diagram is in a sealed laminate or clear adhesive sleeve. The plastic is larger than the diagram and the border on the back is covered in masking tape.
    Topic
    African American
    Business
    Disco (Music)
    Popular music
    Rock and roll (Music)
    Credit Line
    Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
    Object number
    2010.23.1b
    Restrictions & Rights
    No Known Copyright Restrictions
    See more items in
    National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
    Classification
    Documents and Published Materials-Business and Legal Documents
    Data Source
    National Museum of African American History and Culture
  • Red Cadillac Eldorado owned by Chuck Berry

    Red Cadillac Eldorado owned by Chuck Berry

    Created by
    General Motors Corporation, founded 1908
    Owned by
    Berry, Chuck, American, 1926 - 2017
    Medium
    steel, chrome, glass, rubber, plastic
    Dimensions
    Overall with Weight: 53 x 83 x 236 in., 5400 lb. (134.6 x 210.8 x 599.4 cm, 2449.4 kg)
    Type
    convertibles
    Date
    1973
    Caption
    The car is part of Berry’s personal fleet of Cadillacs and was driven during the filming of Hail! Hail! Rock ’n’ Roll, a 1987 documentary that chronicles two 1986 concerts.
    Description
    A red Cadillac Eldorado, model year 1973, owned and driven by Chuck Berry.
    Topic
    African American
    Identity
    Musicians
    Rock and roll (Music)
    Transportation
    Credit Line
    Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Donation of Charles E. Berry
    Object number
    2011.137.1
    Restrictions & Rights
    No Known Copyright Restrictions
    See more items in
    National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
    Classification
    Transportation Vehicles
    Exhibition
    Musical Crossroads
    On View
    NMAAHC (1400 Constitution Ave NW), National Mall Location, Culture/Fourth Floor, 4 053
    Data Source
    National Museum of African American History and Culture
  • Electric guitar belonging to Chuck Berry, nicknamed

    Electric guitar belonging to Chuck Berry, nicknamed "Maybellene"

    Manufactured by
    Gibson Guitar Corp., American, founded 1894
    Owned by
    Berry, Chuck, American, 1926 - 2017
    Subject of
    Chess Records, American, founded 1950
    Medium
    wood and metal
    Dimensions
    41 x 17 x 4 in. (104.1 x 43.2 x 10.2 cm)
    Type
    guitars
    Date
    1959
    Description
    A Gibson ES-350T semi-acoustic guitar named Maybellene. The wood is light, and the tuning keys are damaged. A black and orange label with the serial number (A33643) and where the guitar was made (Kalamazoo, MI) can be seen through one of the F-holes. The case is treated canvas on wood with velvet lining.
    Topic
    African American
    Musicians
    Rock and roll (Music)
    Credit Line
    Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Donation of Charles E. Berry
    Object number
    2011.137.2
    Restrictions & Rights
    1960 Gibson Guitar Corporation
    See more items in
    National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
    Classification
    Musical Instruments
    Exhibition
    Musical Crossroads
    On View
    NMAAHC (1400 Constitution Ave NW), National Mall Location, Culture/Fourth Floor, 4 053
    Data Source
    National Museum of African American History and Culture
  • Poster for The Four Inkspots and the N.B.C. Orchestra

    Poster for The Four Inkspots and the N.B.C. Orchestra

    Created by
    Unidentified
    Distributed by
    Gale Inc., American
    Subject of
    The Ink Spots, American, 1931 - 1964
    NBC Symphony Orchestra, American, 1937 - 1954
    Medium
    ink on paper
    Dimensions
    H x W: 22 x 14 in. (55.9 x 35.6 cm)
    Type
    posters
    Place depicted
    Norwich University, Northfield, Washington County, Vermont, United States, North and Central America
    Date
    1950s
    Description
    A poster advertising a performance of The Four Ink Spots plus the N.B.C. Orchestra in Northfield, Vermont at the Norwich University Armory on May 3rd. The poster has black writing at the top that gives information about the event. The center of the poster contains large lettering that reads: The Four Ink Spots and a black and white photograph of the group. Text at the bottom gives additional information about the performance as well as the name of the management company sponsoring the group. The back of the poster is blank.
    Topic
    African American
    Amusements
    Popular music
    Rhythm and blues (Music)
    Rock and roll (Music)
    Credit Line
    Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
    Object number
    2011.57.35
    Restrictions & Rights
    Public domain
    See more items in
    National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
    Classification
    Memorabilia and Ephemera-Advertisements
    Exhibition
    Musical Crossroads
    On View
    NMAAHC (1400 Constitution Ave NW), National Mall Location, Culture/Fourth Floor, 4 053
    Data Source
    National Museum of African American History and Culture
  • Night Mare / Hound Dog

    Night Mare / Hound Dog

    Published by
    Peacock Records, Inc., American, founded 1949
    Recorded by
    Thornton, Big Mama, American, 1926 - 1984
    Medium
    vinyl, adhesive, paper
    Dimensions
    Diameter: 9 7/8 × 1/16 in. (25.1 × 0.2 cm)
    Type
    78 rpm records
    Place depicted
    Houston, Texas, United States, North and Central America
    Date
    1953
    Description
    A black vinyl record with a red label at its center filled with silver text. Above the record's center is the record label logo, an illustrated peacock perched on the "c" in "Peacock" of the text [Peacock RECORDS]. Beneath the record's center it lists the song title and its production information; one side reads [HOUND DOG / (J. Leiber - M. Stroller - J. Otis) / WILLIE MAE / "Big Mama" THORNTON / Kansas City Bill & Orchestra]. The other side reads [Night Mare (J. Leiber - M. Stroller - J. Otis) / WILLIE MAE / "Big Mama" THORNTON / Kansas City Bill & Orchestra]. Text aligned with the arc beneath the song title reads [PEACOCK RECORDING CO. 4104 LYONS AVE. HOUSTON, TEXAS].
    Topic
    African American
    Instrumentalists (Musicians)
    Rhythm and blues (Music)
    Rock and roll (Music)
    Singers (Musicians)
    Credit Line
    Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
    Object number
    2016.68.12
    Restrictions & Rights
    No Known Copyright Restrictions
    See more items in
    National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
    Classification
    Media Arts-Audio Recordings
    Exhibition
    Musical Crossroads
    On View
    NMAAHC (1400 Constitution Ave NW), National Mall Location, Culture/Fourth Floor, 4 053
    Data Source
    National Museum of African American History and Culture
  • Bo Diddley, 1990

    Bo Diddley, 1990

    Photograph by
    Spitzer, David D., American
    Subject of
    Diddley, Bo, American, 1928 - 2008
    Medium
    silver and photographic gelatin on photographic paper
    Dimensions
    H x W (Image): 13 3/4 x 9 3/8 in. (35 x 23.8 cm)
    H x W (Sheet): 13 7/8 x 10 15/16 in. (35.2 x 27.8 cm)
    H x W (Matted): 20 x 16 in. (50.8 x 40.6 cm)
    Type
    gelatin silver prints
    portraits
    Place captured
    Miami Beach, Miami-Dade County, Florida, United States, North and Central America
    Date
    1990
    Description
    A black-and-white photograph of Bo Diddley singing into a microphone at a performance in Miami Beach, FL. His hands are raised in the air, his mouth is open, and his guitar is at his waist. He is wearing his trademark hat, tic-tac-toe shirt, and glasses.
    Topic
    African American
    Composers (Musicians)
    Instrumentalists (Musicians)
    Photography
    Rock and roll (Music)
    Singers (Musicians)
    Credit Line
    Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of David D. Spitzer
    Object number
    2012.164.3
    Restrictions & Rights
    © David D. Spitzer
    See more items in
    National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
    Classification
    Media Arts-Photography
    Data Source
    National Museum of African American History and Culture
  • Bass guitar used by Norwood Fisher in the band Fishbone

    Bass guitar used by Norwood Fisher in the band Fishbone

    Created by
    Peavey Electronics, American, founded 1965
    Used by
    Fisher, John Norwood, American, born 1965
    Subject of
    Fishbone, American, founded 1979
    Medium
    hardwood with polyurethane , maple, rock , steel , nickel silver , chrome , polycarbonate and nylon
    Dimensions
    H x W x D (2012.53.1a): 47 3/4 x 14 1/4 x 2 1/4 in. (121.3 x 36.2 x 5.7 cm)
    H x W x D (2012.53.1b): 16 3/4 x 50 1/4 x 4 5/8 in. (42.5 x 127.6 x 11.7 cm)
    Type
    double basses
    Date
    1980s
    Description
    A Peavey T-40 bass guitar (2012.53.1a) and case (2012.53.1b) used by Norwood Fisher, the vocalist and bass guitarist of the American alternative rock band, Fishbone. The guitar has a serial number: [00377681].
    Topic
    African American
    Funk (Music)
    Punk (Music)
    Rock and roll (Music)
    Credit Line
    Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, From the Heart of the Family Hood, a Gift to the Ever Expanding Present
    Object number
    2012.53.1ab
    Restrictions & Rights
    No Known Copyright Restrictions
    See more items in
    National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
    Classification
    Musical Instruments
    Exhibition
    Musical Crossroads
    On View
    NMAAHC (1400 Constitution Ave NW), National Mall Location, Culture/Fourth Floor, 4 053
    Data Source
    National Museum of African American History and Culture