The Visitors Center is home to Delta Sounds, a state-of-the-art music area dedicated to the music of the Arkansas Delta. Visitors will enjoy "Delta Sounds Bites" listening stations, which tell the stories of this rich musical heritage. The area includes exhibits featuring the gospel, rockabilly and blues legends that have had a major impact on music in the Arkansas Delta throughout the last century.
Legendary musicians with roots in the Arkansas Delta include: blues legends Sonny Boy Williamson; Louis Jordan; Robert Lockwood, Jr.; James Cotton;Robert Nighthawk; and Albert King; country stars Johnny Cash and Conway Twitty; and well-known crooners Levon Helm and Charlie Rich.
Come experience an operating Radio Studio within our museum. A section of the Delta Sounds Exhibit is dedicated to presenting King Biscuit Time and Delta Sounds radio broadcasts. Guests may view the live broadcasts or be invited to join us behind the mic. Musicians frequently stop by this legendary studio to be a part of the fun. A unique experience for young and old.
Gospel music is a true art form in the Arkansas Delta - touching lives regardless of age, race and background. The section “Tell It! Sing It! Shout It!” features text, photographs and artifacts relating to sacred music of the Arkansas Delta and the performers who gained recognition in the genre. Gospel music grew in the 20th century out of the hymns and spirituals and it continues today to develop in new directions.
Discover the story of Delta gospel greats including Helena-born Roberta Martin, who formed the Roberta Martin Singers and became a dominant force in gospel music for over 35 years. Her funeral in Chicago in 1969 drew 50,000 mourners and is reportedly the largest funeral in the history of the Windy City. Born in Cotton Plant, Arkansas, Sister Rosetta Tharpe rose to fame in the late 1930s with performances at Harlem's famed Cotton Club and Carnegie Hall.