Exploring the Fascinating World of Music at Museum of Pop Culture on 5th Avenue, Seattle WA
Seattle, Washington is not just the home to the iconic Space Needle, but also to the Museum of Pop Culture, a place where music lovers can experience the history, culture, and evolution of music. The museum is a must-visit destination for any music enthusiast, offering an unparalleled experience that showcases the role of music in shaping the world. From its innovative exhibits to its interactive displays, visiting the Museum of Pop Culture is an experience that is both memorable and exhilarating.
History of Museum of Pop Culture
The Museum of Pop Culture was previously called the Experience Music Project (EMP), which was founded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen in 2000. The museum’s original concept was to house a collection of memorabilia and exhibits on the history of Jimi Hendrix, the iconic guitarist from Seattle. However, it quickly expanded its scope to cover all aspects of popular music, from rock and roll to hip hop, country to punk.
In 2016, EMP rebranded itself as the Museum of Pop Culture(MoPOP), with a renewed focus on music as well as a broad range of pop culture topics, including science fiction, video games, and more. The new MoPOP building is designed by iconic architect Frank Gehry and features colorful panels and unique shapes that reflect the diversity and creativity of pop culture.
Exhibits of Museum of Pop Culture
One of the most favored exhibits at MoPOP is an exhibit dedicated to Nirvana, the legendary Seattle band that shaped the alternative rock movement in the early 1990s. The exhibit features rare artifacts, including Kurt Cobain’s original handwritten lyrics, and memorabilia that tell the story of the band’s meteoric rise to fame and what led to its tragic end.
The museum also features a large exhibit dedicated to Prince, the music icon and one of the world’s most talented musicians. The exhibit showcases Prince’s career, including his music, his movies, and his fashion. It features costumes Prince wore on stage, guitars he played, and rare footage that gives visitors a glimpse into the musician’s creative process.
Other popular exhibits at the MoPOP include “Wild Blue Angel: Hendrix Abroad”, which explores Jimi Hendrix’s travels around the world and his influence on global music, “We Are Giants: Rethinking Folklore and Mythology”, which examines the role of mythology in pop culture, and “Scared to Death: The Thrill of Horror Film,” which explores the evolution of scary movies and their essential place in pop culture.
Interactive Displays at Museum of Pop Culture
Beyond its extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits, the MoPOP also offers several interactive displays that allow visitors to explore and engage with music in dynamic ways. Visitors can take a lesson on how to play the guitar or drums in the interactive Sound Lab, create their music videos under the guidance of music professionals, or create their mixes using the latest technology in the DJ Lab.
In addition to the interactive music experiences, there are exhibits that let visitors explore other aspects of pop culture, such as the Infinite Worlds of Science Fiction, where visitors can immerse themselves in the world of Star Trek, Star Wars, and other iconic science fiction series.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Museum of Pop Culture is a unique and captivating destination for anyone interested in music and pop culture. With its outstanding exhibits and interactive displays, the museum offers a one-of-a-kind experience that immerses visitors in the world of music and pop culture. Whether you are a fan of rock, hip-hop, or country music, the MoPOP has something to offer that will take your breath away. So, if you ever get to visit Seattle, don’t forget to put the Museum of Pop Culture on your list of must-see destinations.
