Founded in April 2021 as a digital home for Black Americana, blues, country, and folk artists and fans, the Black Opry now includes a series of showcases, the Black Opry Revue, that highlight the diverse sounds and stories of the Black artists in these genres. During this program, Black Opry founder Holly G and Black Opry performers the Kentucky Gentlemen, Nikki Morgan, Aaron Vance, and Julie Williams will discuss the creation and expansion of the Black Opry, as well as the impact of the organization and its performance series on their careers and the careers of other Black artists. The Kentucky Gentlemen—twin brothers Brandon and Derek Campbell from Versailles, Kentucky—recently released their debut EP, The Kentucky Gentlemen, Vol. 1, and have had the music video for their song “Vibin’” featured on CMT. Nikki Morgan, originally from North Carolina, began performing while living in Chicago and has opened concerts for Sean Watkins, Jaime Wyatt, and other artists. Mississippi native Aaron Vance has released three albums—his newest is 2021’s Cabin Fever—and is an alumnus of the Acoustic Guitar Project. Julie Williams signed her first record deal, with Duke University’s student-run record label Small Town Records, when she was a college student and became a regular host of the weekly, all-women Song Suffragettes artist showcase after moving to Nashville in 2019. Holly G and the Museum’s Angela Stefano Zimmer will host this program. Presented in partnership with the Americana Music Association and SiriusXM Outlaw Country. Ford Theater. Program ticket required.

AMERICANAFEST badge holders should refer to the email sent by the Americana Music Association for the link to reserve tickets. Museum members reserve tickets here. Limited tickets may be available for visitors who have purchased Museum admission on the day of the program.

MEMBERS RESERVE TICKETS HERE