Unforgettable Music

Alabama’s rich, historic music scene has shaped the soundtrack of American music. Southern inspiration from the Shoals to the Gulf Coast has given rise to many talented musicians in a variety of genres: soul, jazz, rock ‘n roll, country and blues. Many legends have been made here. Award-winning music can be found across the state with southern influence seeping into each melody. Tour hit-making studios, the birthplaces of numerous artists and museums dedicated to the preservation of the state’s musical legacy. Don’t believe us? Listen for yourself. You'll hear greats like W.C. Handy; Hank Williams, Sr.; Jason Isbell; Brittany Howard and many, many more.

Experience the Musical Sounds of Alabama

There’s a lot going on in the music industry in Alabama, both historically and in the present day. In fact, Alabama is known for its rich musical history. W.C. Handy, the Father of the Blues, was born in the area, and his contributions reverberated and are still heard in today’s sounds. Dinah Washington, “The Queen of the Blues” also was born in Alabama as was country music legend Hank Williams. Muscle Sound Studio (3614 Jackson Highway) and FAME Recording studios saw international stars Aretha Franklin, The Rolling Stones, Otis Redding and Lynyrd Skynyrd record hit records. Alabama native Sam Phillips also lived in the Northwest Alabama area, discovered Elvis, and is credited with recording the first rock-n-roll song. Jimmy Buffett also grew up in Alabama and is known for creating his own “beach” sound. 

To this day Alabama’s musical sound and influence can be heard in songs and musical arrangements all over the United States. Alabama’s Music Trail offers visitors a perspective on the importance of the state of the industry. Below is an itinerary that touches on the sites and sounds of Alabama’s contributions to music:

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Alabama’s Impact on Music Begins in the Quad-cities.

Visitors to Alabama can explore the history of the state by taking road trips through the backroads to tour the small...
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Experience Alabama’s Rich Musical Heritage.

Alabama has a rich history in music, and many people are not aware of how deep the state’s musical roots go. Alabama’s...
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Featured Locations & Events

Whether it's going to concerts or touring historic recording studios, Alabama has some of the greatest music experiences waiting for you.

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Sounds of Alabama

Explore these attractions and more when you visit our music destinations.

Alabama Music Hall of Fame

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Muscle Shoals Sound Studio

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FAME Recording Studio

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W.C. Handy Birthplace, Museum and Library

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Alabama Fan Club and Museum

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Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame

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Find an Alabama Music Experience

Explore music locations you should visit the next time you're here.
Museum
101 Glenn Boulevard Southwest
Fort Payne, AL 35967
Headquarters of country music group ALABAMA. Visitors from around the world can learn about their favorite band.
Historic Site
1817 3rd Ave. N
Birmingham, AL 35203
Restored 1927 movie palace. Built by Paramount, now a performing arts center. Houses largest Wurlitzer pipe organ in the South. Advance tickets available on ticketmaster.com
Theater
600 Greensboro Avenue
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Opening in 1938, the Bama Theatre serves as the primary cultural venue in downtown Tuscaloosa, featuring performing and visual arts produced by local and traveling artists. It is managed by The Arts Council of Tuscaloosa.
Museum
208 East Martin Luther King Highway
Tuskegee, AL 36083
Former rehearsal and recording studio for the group The Commodores featuring Lionel Richie as the lead singer. Songs such as Three Times a Lady, Still, Sail On, and Brickhouse were nurtured and brought to life at the studio.
Museum
1419 Scenic Road East
Fort Payne, AL 35967