Words by Jiggy Jones
During its 10th anniversary in Newark, New Jersey, Prudential Center launched an artistic and cultural juggernaut on Thursday afternoon (October 19). From the electric voice of Cissy Houston and the New Hope Baptist Church choir, to the anticipation of the ribbon cutting, the premiere of the first Grammy Museum experience on the East Coast was nothing short of extraordinary. Hip-Hop pioneers, Naughty by Nature and Darryl McDaniels, of Run DMC, blazed the stage to give the city of Newark a Hip-Hop hooray of vigor-like, throwback performances. More than 300 guests, including community leaders, government officials and music industry influencers and executives, were in attendance to receive the chance for the exclusive public tour of the 8,200-square foot space.
The Prudential Center, located in Newark, NJ, announced the groundbreaking of this distinguished museum early in February. Newark is the 4th city to house the Grammy Experience along with Los Angeles, Nashville, and Cleveland, Mississippi. The opening of this gem perpetuates an on-going renaissance period.
The 8,200 square feet space includes several interactive exhibits and experiences, permitted to inspire young musicians and educate museum goers on the cultivated history of the Grammys. Stroll into the museum to perform with Ray Charles and Raylettes, hop in the booth for a hip studio session with 3- time Grammy winner, Wyclef Jean, or mix a track like a DJ. New Jersey is the home of a number of music legends including Jon Bon Jovi, Frank Sinatra, Bruce Springstein and the late, Whitney Houston. The latter three are all honored in the museum for the public to see.
The museum is set to change every 6 months, so visitors can take advantage of a new experience each time around. Tour the Grammy Museum Experience at Prudential Center Newark, from Tuesday-Sunday from 11 am- 6 pm, beginning Friday, October 20. Visit https://www.grammymuseumexp.org for more information
