One of the Rock Hall’s newest exhibit, It’s Been Said All Along: Voices of Rage, Hope & Empowerment, showcases musical and visual artists that have created art as a response to unspeakable tragedy and to promote social justice.
Artifacts include Aretha Franklin’s Valentino dress worn during her first appearance at Radio City Music Hall, a jumpsuit worn by James Brown and Public Enemy’s “Fight the Power” lyrics. Director of Curatorial Affairs Nwaka Onwusa explained, “we want to show what the power of rock ‘n’ roll looks like in the face of segregation and racism. These artists have stood above all that and done it elegantly.”
Visitors can also experience the exhibit online with a virtual exhibit walk-through and an official Spotify playlist.
Virtual exhibit walk-through: https://www.rockhall.com/its-been-said-all-along
Photos: Maurice White of Earth, Wind & Fire Cape, Mavis Staples Dress and Guitar